Homeopathy April 2015 Issue by Dr. Batras Media Pvt. Ltd.

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Dr MUKESH BATRA The homeopathic Platina personality Dr RICHARD FIRSHEIN Asthma: Diet holds the key PLUS

Stress to destress Prescription for trouble 5 steps to a whole new you Amrita Rao’s wellness mantra

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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 Kiron B Shenoy, Colombo, Sri Lanka Design HB Design Pvt Ltd Subscriptions 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, 33, Maker Towers-H, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai - 400 005 and printed by him at Parksons Graphics Private Limited, 12 Todi Estate, Behind Post Office, Sun Mill Compound, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013. 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: Homeopathy treats osteoporosis Homeopathic ‘Sunsigns: Know your personality; know your remedy. Dr Mukesh Batra distils the homeopathic Platina, this month Medical Marvels: Case reviews from homeopathic doctors How Homeopathy Helped Me Q&A: Doctor’s Orders Women’s Health: Pregnancy and homeopathy Quintessence: Stress to destress What Lies Beneath: Homeopathy: Patient-centric medicine Home[e]o Truths: Homeopathic detox Living Well: Prescription for trouble Summer care Pot-Pourri

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Corporate Wellness: Life Coach: Vinesh Sukumaran

Read. Watch. Listen. Explore Celeb Fitness: Amrita Rao

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Badrinath Durvasula

Home[o]pathy Health Happenings

Whole & Soul: Radhanath Swami Preeti Mandawewala

Fitness Quotient Self-help

Good For You: Dr Richard Firshein

Mixed Bag: Ruby Lilaowala

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HOMEOPATHY IS REAL, GOOD MEDICINE The reality is that homeopathy works well beyond placebo. There are 25,000 volumes of cured case records including all types of conditions coming from its clinical use in hundreds of millions of people over the course of 200+ years. Hundreds of documented case records of contemporary cures of conditions from cancer to psychogenic diabetes mellitus to gangrene can be viewed by ‘Googling,’ ‘homeopathy cured cases.’ These records would not exist and homeopathy would not be the second-most used system of medicine in the world today if it did not work. It does work, and it works safely. It’s also inexpensive and green. Most anti-homeopathy information is not factual. Another example is the claim that homeopaths recommend half the adult dose for children. The potency and dosage is chosen for the patient, whether a child or an adult, based on the sensitivity and energy levels of the patient, not on the patient’s age. There were, by the end of 2010, 318 studies published in 124 respected, national and international peer-reviewed journals, besides 11 meta-analysis and 8 systematic reviews including one Cochrane review, showing homeopathy works beyond placebo [dummy pill]. Replicated research in 23 conditions also showed the results of homeopathic treatment to be statistically significant. Current research shows that far from containing only water, homeopathic remedies contain nanoparticles of the original substance too. According to a new study, Integrative Nanomedicine: Treating Cancer with Nanoscale Natural Products, “The recent discovery of nanoparticles in traditional homeopathic medicines adds another point of convergence between modern nanomedicine and alternative interventional strategies. A way in which homeopathic remedies could initiate anticancer effects includes cell-to-cell signalling actions of both exogenous and endogenous nanoparticles. The Banerji Protocols [Prasanta Banerji Homeopathic Research Foundation] reflect a multigenerational clinical system developed by homeopathic physicians in India who have treated thousands of patients with cancer. Taken together, the nanoparticulate research data and the Banerji Protocols for homeopathic remedies in cancer suggest a way forward for generating advances in cancer treatment with natural product-derived nanomedicines.” Homeopathy is a system of medicine that often ‘cures’ diseases, which are considered incurable in conventional medicine, it also improves conditions where a cure isn’t possible and one’s quality of life. It is proven safe in clinical use and in studies for infants, children, nursing mothers and pregnant women. It is non-toxic and inexpensive — the kind of medicine everyone can benefit from using. — Dr B L N Raju, quoting a letter on NoozHawk.Com,via E-mail

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HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

FOCUS

HOMEOPATHY & OSTEOPOROSIS

BONE HARMONY

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones become brittle, and are likely to crack. If the disorder is not prevented, or left untreated, it can advance painlessly until a bone fractures. Evidence-based studies signify that homeopathy can bring balance and relieve aching bones, and prevent, or heal, fractures too.

leads to structural collapse, or fracture — steoporosis is a bone disorder. It most commonly of the vertebrae, femur [thigh represents a gradual decrease in bone bone], or radius [one of the two bones in the density which weakens the bones, forearm]. Ironically however, the fracture rate and makes fractures a possibility. Bones, as in osteoporosis is not closely related to the you know, contain minerals, like calcium and By Dr AKSHAY incidence of the disorder, as much as frequency phosphorus; they are essential to make them BATRA of falls is. hard and dense. The inference is obvious — In simple terms, osteoporosis is a disease in in order to maintain bone density, the body which bones become brittle, and are likely to crack. If requires adequate supply of calcium and other minerals; the disorder is not prevented, or left untreated, it can besides, it needs to produce appropriate amounts of advance painlessly until a bone fractures. several hormones, such as parathyroid hormone, growth Women are four times more likely than men to develop hormone, calcitonin, oestrogen, and testosterone. Not the disease. Technically, osteoporosis, or porous bone, only that. The adequate supply of vitamin D is further is primarily a disease characterised by low bone mass required to absorb calcium from food and integrate it into and structural deterioration of bone tissue. It is, in the bones. Vitamin D, as you know, is absorbed from the other words, a condition denoted by bone fragility and diet and also manufactured in the skin from sunlight. increased propensity to fractures, especially of the hip, Osteoporosis — literally, ‘holes in the bone’ — is a spine and wrist. common metabolic bone disorder. It is essentially the All the same, the disorder can affect any bone. most difficult to treat. In the disease, the mass of bone is reduced; its composition, however, remains normal, or SYMPTOMS unaffected. The reduction results in imbalance between The overall symptoms of osteoporosis are deformity, the formation and resorption [loss] of bone. localised pain, and fracture, which are characteristically While loss of balance often occurs with increasing seen in age-related bone loss. While the commonest age, osteoporosis is of clinical significance when it

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

deformity is loss of height due to vertebral collapse, it is hardly ever noticed by the patient because one rarely measures one’s original height. In younger patients affected by osteoporosis, most of the pain occurs in the back. This is often accompanied by deformity of the chest and protrusion of the manubrium sterni — the upper segment of the sternum. This is, at first, related to an acknowledged strain — moving heavy furniture, for example — with the pain being severe and localised. In addition to this, the vertebrae may be sensitive to touch. Also, anaemia and general ill-health may be present. Most patients have more than one cause of osteoporosis. To cut the long story short, osteoporosis is classified as age-related bone disorder, which occurs most commonly in post-menopausal and elderly women. IMPLICATIONS A hip fracture is often a cause for concern; it almost always requires hospitalisation and/or surgery. Besides, it can mess up a person’s ability to walk unaided and lead to long-lasting or permanent disability, and death in certain cases. In addition, fracture of the spine and vertebra can lead to serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity. While significant risk has been reported in people of all ethnic backgrounds, osteoporosis can ‘hit’ at any age. Statistics suggests that the disorder is to blame for more than 5 million fractures worldwide annually — and, over 400,000 hip fractures; around 750,000 vertebral fractures; 275,000 wrist fractures; and, 350,000 fractures at other sites. No wonder, osteoporosis is called the ‘silent disease,’ because bone loss can occur without symptoms, or warning signs. Besides, people may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump, or fall, causes a fracture, or a vertebra to collapse. Collapsed vertebrae may, at the outset, be felt or seen in the form of severe back pain, loss of height, or spinal deformities, such as kyphosis, or stooped posture. Research suggests that certain people have a predisposition to develop osteoporosis than others. This is referred to as risk factors.

OSTEOPOROSIS — RISK FACTORS • Personal history of fracture after age 50 • Current low bone mass • History of fracture in a close relative • A family history of osteoporosis • Women • People with thin or small frame • Advanced age • Oestrogen hormone deficiency as a result of menopause; or, periods • Women who lose up to 20 per cent of their bone mass in 5-7 years, following menopause, are more likely to develop the disease • Low testosterone levels in men • Loss of appetite • Low lifetime calcium intake • Vitamin D deficiency • Long-term use of medications like corticosteroids and anti-convulsants • Chronic medical conditions • Sedentary lifestyle • Cigarette smoking • Alcohol excess. While Asians and Caucasians are at significant risk, African-Americans and Hispanic Americans, among others, are also not exempt from developing the disorder. THE FUNDAMENTALS Bone is a living tissue in a dynamic equilibrium between building and breakdown. During our first 20+ years of life we have the opportunity to increase our ultimate maximal bone density. There are many factors that contribute to either the strong or weak bone mass. The sole concept of calcium, according to some clinicians, as the key agent responsible for the end result, is not as ‘fixed’ as is thought. Bone is made up of mineral components which comprise between 60 and 70 per cent of the mature bone matrix, with the remainder basically formed by collagen and water. The mineral components provide strength, while the organic components provide flexibility. The bone matrix is composed of both calcium and phosphate salts, and organic component, largely made of collagen fibre. The calcium and phosphate salts combine to form hydroxyapatite crystals; they give bone their amazing tensile strength. So, what can you do? Quite a bit — because, the science of bone metabolism is now much better understood than it was earlier. The first step is to evaluate our risk factors — one that we can change and one that are preset. Risk factors are, of course, not under your control. There is a wide-ranging range of factors contributing to your bone integrity. The following is intended to give you a summary — because one can modify some of the risks and reverse the disorder. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

• A family history of osteoporosis, or some genetic, or lifestyle components • Post-menopause, including early or surgically induced menopause — thinking that no replacement therapy is put into action • Abnormal absence of menstrual periods [amenorrhoea] — this is a good pointer of a major hormonal problem • Being Asian or Caucasian, although African-Americans and Hispanic Americans are at considerable risk as well • Being a woman and being thin and/or having a small frame • Advanced age.

processes of decreasing bone deposition, or increasing loss. Some affect both and can result in a high bone loss rate. • Primary biliary cirrhosis [liver disease] • Anorexia nervosa [eating disorder] • Hypercalciuria [excess loss of calcium in urine] • Cushing’s disease [a tumour in the pituitary gland] • Bone marrow disorders • Connective tissue disorders • Rheumatoid arthritis, a degenerative joint disorder • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD].

FACTORS YOU CAN CONTROL Diet • Fats, which have direct influence your hormonal status • Sugar, cut on them [Excess salt changes mineral loss through the kidneys] • Caffeine, limit your intake • Alcohol acts as a diuretic and influences mineral loss; avoid its intake.

NUTRITIONAL ISSUES There are two distinct aspects of nutritional status. The first is your intake. The questions are not only ‘if’ and ‘how’ much is present, but also the quality. The second has to do with the timing and digestibility. This is primarily because a broad range of nutrients are essential for good bone health and wellness.

Lifestyle • Sun exposure, avoid too much of the good thing • Exercise is good for you and bone density • Smoking, best to avoid the habit • Medications, there are certain medications that affect your health and bone density [speak to your doctor and report on the medications that you may be taking] • Emotional and physical stress: this upsets your wellness balance and impacts multiple organs, include bone. WARNING SIGNS There are a number of warning symptoms, although the classic ‘broken’ bone without any trauma is like waiting for the indicator in your car to tell you are running out of fuel. The best thing to do is keep a close watch on the following signs and report them to your doctor promptly, because prevention is always better than a long-drawnout battle of attrition, if not cure. • Cramps in the leg or feet is a warning sign of mineral imbalance • Dowager’s hump is a clear sign of bone loss, although a late entrant • Periodontal disease is often associated with bone loss before any bone testing is ordered • Rickets, most children will report bone pain with physical activity • Bone pain in adults can be a serious disorder, not always osteoporosis though • Brittle or soft finger nails, may indicate mineral imbalance • Heart palpitations, may indicate a mineral deficiency, such as magnesium • Premature grey hair is a sign of premature bone loss • Non-traumatic fractures. OTHER DISORDERS TO BE CONSIDERED A number of diseases can ‘ape’ osteoporosis. They have a negative effect on the bone mass, because of their

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

VITAMINS • D: Is a must for good bone health. A test to ascertain the vitamin’s level in the body is mandatory • K: Reveals the area where calcium is deposited; a test is critical to know vitamin K levels • C: There can be no good bones without adequate amounts of the great antioxidant • B6 [pyridoxine]: This is an essential part in the process — if you are using birth control pills you probably are not getting enough • Folic Acid: Is essential for proteins in bone and elsewhere. MINERALS • Calcium is clearly essential, although it need not necessarily be the key player • Magnesium is fundamental for your bone integrity • Boron is necessary, although it is needed in small amounts • Zinc is required for proper maintenance and building of bone • Copper, along with zinc, determines most of the ‘signals’ needed for your bones • Silicon is necessary to good bone development Protein is just as important — your source of protein,

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including the source and the amount, is critical to determining your bone matrix density and/or if the bone will gain or lose its integrity. HORMONES The area of hormonal considerations is awfully tangled and broad. However, it is imperative to simplify the issues and look in the direction of how hormones influence the loss or retention of bone components. Your doctor will often evaluate all of the following in order to get the complete picture: adrenal, thyroid, parathyroid, ovarian/testicular and pancreatic hormones. To cull, or illustrate, a common example — hyperthyroid [excessive] thyroid output condition. This could be as simple as the incorrect dose of thyroid medication, or a diseased thyroid. This is because with increased metabolism the bone may turn over and lead to accelerated loss of minerals through the urine. Over a period of time you would lose a great deal of bone density. A correct balance of all the hormones is essential — and, this is extremely easy to test via your saliva. There are a host of new laboratory techniques. Most of the tests are cost-effective and a valued part of preventative medicine. GASTRO-EVALUATION. GENETICS. ETC This is often an overlooked area, but is essential for anyone at risk of osteoporosis. Gastrointestinal evaluation can be straightforwardly accomplished with a simple stool sample or blood information for a complete overview of our body’s physiology and/or function. • Hypochlorhydria/achlorhydria is a lack of the necessary acids to break down food • Lactose intolerance is a contributory factor for malabsorption syndrome • Allergies also contribute to malabsorption syndrome • Colitis and other diseases of the bowel, including diarrhoea over a period of time can lead to malabsorption syndrome. Queries W Gifford-Jones, MD, “What causes the holes in Swiss cheese?” He adds “I’m sure the Swiss know the answer, but I don’t. I do know what makes ‘holes’ in bones, causing osteoporosis. Millions of North Americans are taking prescription drugs to treat this devastating disease. But there may be a safer, natural remedy to prevent ‘holey’ bones.” He observes that recent statistical figures are frightening. Studies show that one in four women and one in eight men over age 50 may have osteoporosis. With an aging population, one can, he also underscores, expect more cases in the years ahead. He also puts the whole context in perspective. “Who develops this crippling disease depends on several factors. Genetics plays a role in certain families. So does being thin, smallboned, and of white or Asian ancestry. Smokers, and others who take three or more alcoholic drinks a day, and patients who require corticosteroids to treat asthma or arthritis are also at increased risk.”

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

In simple terms, osteoporosis, results in ‘silent’ fractures of the spine, hip and wrist. The fracture can also come about at the speed of light from a forceful hug, a sneeze, and so on, which can suddenly break a rib. Osteoporosis can also result in chronic pain or a life in a wheelchair. Prof T D Spector, a bone researcher of St Thomas Hospital in London, UK, reported at a recent convention of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research that low-dose, choline-stabilised orthosilicic acid [ch-OSA], a form of silicon, plays a major role in building strong bones. In his study, 184 women with either osteopenia [early osteoporosis] or osteoporosis were divided into four groups. They were all prescribed a daily supplement of 1,000mg of elemental calcium and 800IU of vitamin D3. Three of the four groups were also given daily amounts of either three, six or 12 drops of choline-stabilised orthosilicic acid. Spector reported that after 12 months, those women taking six and 12 drops of ch-OSA showed significant changes in bone formation, particularly the hip bone. This and other studies now show that a combination of calcium, vitamin D3 and ch-OSA is a safe way to grow strong bones. It is established that ch-OSA builds and maintains strong bones by depositing calcium and phosphate into bone. What’s more, ch-OSA triggers collagen formation, the fibrous protein which provides support for bony structures. It’s akin to steel girders that keep buildings from collapsing. It is also evidenced that adequate amounts of collagen-generating orthosilicic acid are required for other tissues, and as we age, the levels decrease. Research suggests that such a ‘losing’ proposition in the framework of the aorta may be one reason for the aortic aneurysm that ruptures, causing death. To highlight yet another exemplar. The principal component of nails is keratin. Keratin production is dependent on the skin’s collagen matrix. A lack of collagen results in brittle nails. BioSil is a dietary supplement that contains cholinestabilised orthosilicic acid, the only form of silicon that is biologically active and absorbed by the body. To paraphrase W Gifford-Jones, “Pound for pound, natural remedies are safer than prescription drugs. So, I believe it’s sensible to first consider a natural remedy.” This is not all. Defects in a protein called alphaV beta3 integrin appear to contribute to the development of osteoporosis. The effects can be reversed by enhancing a protein called macrophage-colonystimulating factor[M-CSF], according to new research. The study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, suggests that although one does not as yet understand how such proteins interact to affect bone-cell development, we are now significantly closer to determining that mechanism.

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN Osteoporosis, according to Peter R Ebeling, MBBS MD FRACP, is increasingly recognised in men. “Low bone mass, risk factors for falling and factors causing fractures in women are likely to cause fractures in men. Bone mass is largely genetically determined, but environmental factors also contribute. Greater muscle strength and physical activity are associated with higher bone mass, while radial bone loss is greater in cigarette smokers, or those with a moderate alcohol intake. Sex hormones have important effects on bone physiology.” “In men, there is no abrupt cessation of testicular function or ‘andropause’ comparable with the menopause in women; however, both total and free testosterone levels decline with age. A common secondary cause of osteoporosis in men is hypogonadism. There is increasing evidence that oestrogens are important in skeletal maintenance in men as well as women. Peripheral aromatisation of androgens to oestrogens occurs and osteoblast-like cells can aromatise androgens into oestrogens.” Ebeling adds, “Human models exist for the effects of oestrogens on the male skeleton. In men aged >65 years, there is a positive association between bone mineral density [BMD] and greater serum oestradiol levels at all skeletal sites and a negative association between BMD and testosterone at some sites. It is crucial to exclude pathological causes of osteoporosis, because 30-60 per cent of men with vertebral fractures have another illness contributing to bone disease. Glucocorticoid excess [predominantly exogenous] is just as common.” DIAGNOSIS Clinicians often suspect osteoporosis with a history of bone fractures — especially from falls, or minor trauma, including bone loss, or abnormality, when present on X-ray, besides those who have a significant risk factor — for example, long-term use of steroidal medications. Structural collapse often provides the most convincing X-ray sign of osteoporosis. If osteoporosis is suspected, your physician/therapist orders a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry [DEXA] scan and conducts a BMD [bone mass density] measurement, preferably of the hip and spine. While a complete survey of drug history, lifestyle habits and dietary intake are conducted, certain laboratory tests to measure testosterone, calcium and thyroid function, are also performed. PREVENTION Prevention is often more successful than treatment — besides, it makes sense to prevent loss of bone density than restore bone density once it is lost. A simple plan of preventative action would involve maintenance or enhancement of bone density. This may often be achieved by consuming adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D, getting engaged in expert-recommended weight-bearing exercises, and taking medications on a regular basis.

Ensuring adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D intake is also effective. However, this must be incorporated before maximum bone density is reached — by age 30. The regimen should, of course, not exclude people above age 30. Clinicians recommend supplemental intake of 1,500mg of calcium [800mg for men] and 400-800IU of vitamin D daily. Drinking two 8-ounce glass of vitamin D-fortified milk and eating a balanced diet, along with the intake of a vitamin D supplement, are just as important — even though many would also need to take a good magnesium supplement [350-500mg]. It is established fact that weight-bearing exercises — walking and climbing staircases — increase bone density. It must, however, be remembered that nonweight-bearing exercises, like swimming, do not increase bone density. Needless to emphasise, exercise is important to improve balance. This is primarily because balance often helps to prevent a fracture that may occur from falling. All the same, a high degree of exercise, in pre-menopausal women, can actually cause a small reduction in bone density, essentially because heavy exercise represses the production of oestrogen by the ovaries. LIFESTYLE CHANGES Individuals who are diagnosed with osteoporosis may be prescribed lifestyle changes along with medication. These may include — • Giving up smoking HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

• Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake [1,500mg per day of calcium, preferably through diet and/or supplements; 400-800IU [international units] of vitamin D, especially in adults aged 55+ • Limit alcohol consumption • Regular exercise • Additional measures — avoid falls, or change room layouts, correct visual defects and take precautions with medications that may cause giddiness • Hip padding may also be used for protection • Though research data on the effectiveness of medications to treat men with osteoporosis are lacking, doctors prescribe bisphosphonates and calcitonin because, in theory, they should have the same good effects as in women • While alendronate sodium is prescribed for use in certain men with osteoporosis, some clinicians recommend the use of testosterone [replacement] therapy in certain patients. Note: A woman’s risk of hip fracture is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. Besides, the rate of hip fracture is 2-3 times higher in women than men; also, the one-year mortality rate following a hip fracture is nearly twice as high for men as for women. Osteoporosis or loss of bone density is commonly regarded as a natural part of aging. Mineral depletion causes bones to turn thin and porous over time making them brittle and prone to fractures. Specific bones that are the most commonly and worst affected are, as already cited, the spinal column, hips, pelvis, and ribs. For hormonal reasons, more women than men suffer from this disorder. At least 25 per cent of all postmenopausal women have some form or another of it. The causes are: • Sudden decrease in the levels of the female hormone oestrogen post-menopause • A lack of dietary calcium in the food • Ovary removal from hysterectomy or Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder • Physical inactivity or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications. HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY Homeopathy is useful for osteoporosis, not just a supplemental, natural therapeutic option, but also as adjuvant treatment. It can bring the body into better balance and promote better, efficient absorption and use of minerals and other nutrients. Put simply, homeopathy for osteoporosis may not ‘transform’ the condition; it helps to improve bone structure, slow down bone loss, and, when begun early

enough, delay the onset of the condition. Homeopathy treats osteoporosis from a holistic perspective, helping to bring all aspects of a patient’s life into balance to support bodily and physiological health. Homeopathic clinicians aver that homeopathy for osteoporosis doesn’t just help heal the condition, it also helps the patient become well again overall. This, according to homeopathic tenets, is what holistic healthcare is all about — a healthier person isn’t as susceptible as others to illness. Evidence-based studies, supplanted with clinical outcomes, also attest that homeopathic remedies can relieve aching bones and prevent, or heal, fractures too. A case in point. Meera, a forty-three-yearold accountant, presented with backache, easy perspiration and fatigue, with mild pain all over her body. Our preliminary analysis revealed that she had already reached menopause. Her primary symptoms also suggested early signs of osteoporosis. We ordered a bone density test to ascertain the condition of her bones. As suspected, her bone mineral density score turned out to be alarmingly low: -1.5. We prescribed her the homeopathic remedy, Calcarea Carbonicum 200C and Calcarea Phosphoricum 6X, twice a day. A repeat bone density test, after six months, showed a significant ‘jump’ in her bone mineral density score: 0.5. All her aches and pains too resolved, along with good and continual clinical progress. She now exercises daily at the gym and leads a normal, healthy life. USEFUL HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES Calcarea Carbonicum. This remedy is useful for osteoporosis patients who are at the higher end of the weighing scale, or sweat and tire easily and have a tendency towards periodic feelings of extreme anxiety. Calcarea Phosphoricum. Great stiffness in the body coupled with soreness and physical weakness in the bones and joints is often a classical symptom. Cortisone, in its homeopathic, potentised form, has the exact opposite action of its pharmaceutical ‘cousin.’ Overprescribing regular cortisone causes a reduction in bone matrix and may induce osteoporosis. In homeopathic doses, cortisone helps to reverse the condition. Phosphorus. Patients who display extreme emotional sensitivity and tend to be highly suggestible and imaginative respond to this remedy. Silicea. Extreme and persistent nervousness; individuals who become easily exhausted even from mild physical exertion.

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 first-of-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 | APRIL 2015

WHAT’S YOUR TYPE: YOUR PERSONALITY

PLATINA: PRIDE & PREJUDICE The homeopathic remedy, Platina, closely relates to Narcissus, from Greek mythology, whose allure for his own reflection was hypnotic. It exemplifies a sense of self-aggrandisement, or blatant pride, that they are worthy of the ‘best of everything’ in life.

By Dr MUKESH BATRA

latinum is a precious metal. It has a host of uses, not just in the ornament or jewellery industry, or electrical contacts, but also dental alloys and surgery. The metal’s first record of use emerged in the 1730s. Platina, the homeopathic remedy, was first proved by Dr Johann Ernst Staph, MD, and Dr Gustav Wilhelm Gross, MD, two celebrated pupils of Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the founder of homeopathy. Its homeopathic drug picture was published in the latter’s masterpiece, Chronic Diseases. The homeopathic Platina is prepared by boiling fine pieces of the pure metal in acid and, thereafter, washed and dried. The residual matter is diluted and ground with lactose sugar. The end product is the homeopathic remedy — to treat a host of health complaints, especially related to women. A major keynote of the remedy is secretions, such as menstrual blood and tears that tend to be gluey. The sensual urge, or need, is often high. This is primarily the reason why Platina is used for sexual and menstrual issues in women, not to speak of nervous disorders in men and women alike. According to Dr Richard Hughes, MD, the legendary English homeopath, “The chief action of Platina appears to be upon the nervous centres — the symptoms, when allowance is made for the temperament of their chief source, being generally characterised by depression. There is a strong tendency to paralysis and anaesthesia, localised numbness being a frequent sensation; and, in the emotional sphere there is anxiety and apprehension, even with the fear of death. With this — perhaps, through an action upon the abdominal and pelvic plexuses — there is inertia of the intestinal canal, shown in flatulence [gas] and constipation and also premature menstruation.” He adds, “As is usually the case, several spasmodic and neuralgic phenomena in Platina are mixed up with that of paralysis and anaesthesia, the pains are mostly crampy, and associated with numbness and coldness. In accordance with such pathogenetic indications, Platina has been used primarily for hysteria and melancholia in women, which are connected with deranged uterine HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

health. It has cured certain religious depression in such subjects. In corroboration, it may be observed that Platina holds the same place in the treatment of chronic ovarian disease.” PROUDLY ZEALOUS The homeopathic Platina is ‘best’ suited for individuals who are overtly proud. They exhibit more than just a tad of arrogance, and also passion. Most Platinas set high standards for themselves. When their expectations don’t reach the exalted plane, they are often the cause of disappointment. This is something that gets accentuated when their partners are not up to one’s expectations, or are found wanting. That Platinas are also inclined to live just too much in the past, not so much in the present, leads to a feeling that others around them have forsaken them. This often leads to a state of negativity, including isolation. Yet, the best part is Platinas get over their ‘blues’ quickly and embrace a self-governing, or contemplative state of mind. Platina closely relates to Narcissus, from Greek mythology, whose allure for his own reflection was hypnotic. This self-aggrandisement and bearing is often accompanied by a sentiment that they are worthy of the best of everything in life — right from material comfort, the best of jobs, or position, or transformed, elevated status in society, or the community, as a whole. Well, when such requisites remain a chimera, not just a dream, their canvas or mosaic of egotism is not only heightened, but it also brings in a sense of profound depression. What characterises Platina is not the standard norm of lament that leads to emotional distress, but the shedding of tears that ushers in relief. The reason being that the Platina personality emotes an alternating emotional and physical representation of symptoms. When there is pain, it rises and decreases unhurriedly — not unexpectedly, or abruptly. Likewise, objects appear to be smaller than they really are. A tiny bulb may look like a football, or think of what you may by way of some other illustration — and, you have the Platina personality in place. DOMINATING GRANDEUR Platina exemplifies grandeur. That it is a pricey, luxurious metal is obvious — this indicates precisely to its ‘ homeopathicity’ — one that is keyed to a sense of being special, unique and also extraordinary. Yet, the fact of the matter is Platinas don’t just think of themselves as special, they are often wont to feel that they are superior to others. This often leads to a chasm — it also isolates them from others. You will find it difficult, if not impossible, to break the ice or make contact with Platinas. A handful of homeopathic clinicians, therefore, suggest the strand of autistic, or Asperger’s syndrome, profile in some Platinas, residing in the skin of their thought. You’d visualise a Platina child without much prompt. Just think of a child you know who is haughty and is defined by a slight physical appearance, but with a

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

powerful will dominating the entire house. This adds to the aura of a sense of pre-eminence in such children — including their rebuttal to engage, or play, with other children who are physically taller than they are. This is not all. You’d easily spot a Platina kid the moment you are witness to one who effortlessly bored stiff and shuts oneself in their room lamenting that everything in the world is lacklustre and monotonous. A Platina kid, or grown up, has this undulating frustration with things — even when they are the latest of high-tech gadgets, or gizmos. That Platinas exert too much pressure on themselves, even when there is no need, represents their downcast or disillusioned emotional outlook. This tends to get exemplified when they find things are not happening the way they would want them to. Yet, in the same breath, Platinas also conform themselves to regular routines, including punctuality — this makes them feel that have the innate ability to enforce their will and, in so doing, control their surroundings. When it comes to food, or eating, most Platinas are choosy or finicky eaters — more so, the Platina child who tends to take such idiosyncrasies to the next level. The Platina child may not only refuse to eat ‘particular’ foods, they have an outlandish resolve to ‘position’ the food on the plate that their fancies would dictate. It is also not unusual for them to be adamant. Two dishes on the same plate should be laid out separately; they should not come in contact with each other. Platina individuals are full of contrasts — at one end of the spectrum, they are relatively sensible and sure and, at the other end, they may ‘emote’ reticence and live on the edge of the precipice... going nuts. When the Platina individual is sensitive, she is passionate, not just sensually, but also adoring of several things. While her sensual intensity may reach the crescendo, it is also the ‘trigger’ for her distress as well, for which she may seek medical help, or advice. Or, she may feel too awkward to ask for medical help, because her sensible, sensitive nature would goad her to do so. Platina may be equally effective for individuals who respond terribly, or amplify their feelings frequently, especially with the emergence of a certain momentary feeling of seclusion, or loneliness. Such a sense of detachment from their regular life, even for a short period of time, may trigger not only emotional, but also bodily, symptoms — including short spells of illness. This is primarily because Platinas are inclined to bear their emotional upswings, with as much ease as their personality or individual attributes. FEAR HOLDS THE KEY To paraphrase Dr James Tyler Kent, MD, the legendary American homeopath, “One of the most striking characteristics of Platina is pride and over-estimation of one’s self. She imagines that she is of a high born family and that her friends and relatives are of lowly origin and looks down upon them. Her acquaintances are inferior

It is an oft-repeated dictum that people who love themselves ought to love others, but when you love oneself far too much with Narcissistic tendencies, there is a possibility of one getting disconnected with one’s inner-self, or the resident soul that dwells deep within us. This is a prospect that is not as simple as it appears to be on the surface. It relates not just to the divergence between normal behavioural features and personality disorders, but also of the likelihood of illness. This is because individuals, who emote the Platina personality, are too much in love with themselves. They often have no time for others, or consideration, or respect for their feelings, sentiments, or sensibilities.

to herself. A strange thing about this remedy is that this imagination extends to the body. She imagines that her body is large and that the bodies of other people are smaller in comparison with her own.” He adds, “She is in a contemptuous mood, anxious and serious over matters that are not serious, irritable about trifling things, is moody and sulky over slight vexations, anxious, weeping. [There is] palpitation, trembling in all limbs during every little excitement, fear of death and loathing for life.” It may be emphasised that fear is a prominent feature of Platina. A fear that something will happen, a fear that her travelling-on-the-job husband will never return to her, though he does after every business trip. Put simply, Platinas are marked by a restless disposition; they are excitable while walking, moving about, and weeping. Kent emphasises again, “The mental symptoms alternate with the physical symptoms. Strange illusions of fancy. Imagines that she does not belong to this race and becomes insane over religious matters; sits in the corner and broods and says nothing. Spasms will come on from vexation, or anger. May whistle, sing, and dance. Talks constantly about fanciful things. She may go into melancholy, or mania. Because, any disturbance of her pride will bring on her symptoms.”

THE PLATINA INDEX Excessive sensitivity. Platina is useful for a broad assortment of divergent painful as well as exasperating problems related to the sexual and reproductive systems in women. It is generally prescribed to cure such symptoms. It also suits individuals who endure excessive stimulation, or pain related to the vagina, or vulva. This is two extremes, so to speak. Such issues may also have a tendency to worsen during menstrual periods, or erupt abruptly — from nowhere. Symptoms are often better by walking in the open air, sunshine and stretching. Symptoms are worse in the evening, by emotional stress and nervous fatigue. Headaches and facial pain. This is expressed as pain in the head and face, triggered by a range of factors. There is often a characteristic lack of sensation, or coldness may occur due to the character of actual pain in the head, or face. Symptoms are better by walking in the open air and movement. Symptoms are worse by touch and bending backwards. Menstrual disorders. Platina is useful, and also curative, for profuse, short, or lack of menstrual cycles [amenorrhoea]. It is also equally effective for throbbing cramps during periods and in easing pain or constriction in and around the uterus. Symptoms are better while walking in the open air, sunshine and stretching. Symptoms are worse by touch, evening, emotional stress and nervous fatigue. Numbness and cramps in the limbs. Platina is effective in providing quick relief from numbness or insensitivity as well as pain caused by a cold skin — possibly due to a certain constraint, or twinge, in the limbs. Such constricted feelings are characteristically located in the thighs, or calves. The keynote is “as if the individual’s limbs are bandaged,” though this is not so in reality. Symptoms are better by walking in the open air, sunshine and stretching. Symptoms are worse by touch, evening, emotional stress and nervous exhaustion.

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 | APRIL 2015

MEDICAL MARVELS: LITTLE PILLS, BIG RESULTS

‘Back’ Comfort By Dr TULIKA JAIN, MD [Hom], New Delhi Sushmita, a twenty-eight-year old housewife, presented with severe back pain radiating to her left leg. She was diagnosed with sciatica due to prolapsed disc and was advised complete bed rest. But, the pain still persisted. She was now advised some simple exercises and a prescribed diet to lose weight. Sushmita was not alone. Between 75 and 85 per cent of all people will experience some form of back pain during their lifetime. In fact, back pain is the second most frequently reported reason for visiting a doctor, and after the common cold, is the next leading reason for missed workdays for people under 45. Four out of five people also experience low back pain at least once during their lives. • On the bright side, you can prevent most back pain • Back pain most often occurs from strained muscles and ligaments, from improper or heavy lifting, or after a sudden awkward movement • Sometimes, the soft material inside a disk which acts as a cushion between the vertebrae in your spine may press on a nerve causing back pain

• Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis of the lower back can also cause back pain. Whatever the cause, there are some simple measures you can take to ease the pain. • Stay fit and active. Staying active will also help control your weight, which is one of the primary causes of back pain • Applying heat locally by means of a hot water bottle • While lifting heavy objects, keep your back straight. Poor lifting techniques are a major cause of back strain and injury • Avoid wearing high heels • Use a cushion, or pillow, to support the small of your back when seated • To rest and sleep, lie on a firm, flat surface, if possible . • Yoga, meditation and relaxation music at regular intervals help. What one should remember is that nearly all back pains are preventable. With proper exercise, diet and body mechanics, your back can last a lifetime trouble-free. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

Dr BATRA’S FOUNDATION Spreading the Joy of Good Health… through Homeopathy!

Adieu, UTI By Dr SHEETAL SAWANT, MD [Hom], Mumbai Sarah, a thirty-five-year old bank employee, presented with recurrent episodes of urinary tract infection [cystitis]. Since her job involved long, continuous stints at the cash counter, she was unable to relieve herself for hours together — this, we deduced, was causing her recurrent infection. Urinary tract infections [UTIs] are one of the most common types of infection. It is reported that 50 to 60 per cent of all women experience at least one urinary tract infection in their lifetime. UTI also accounts for about 8.3 million doctor visits each year. In children, the use of diapers is a common contributory factor. In elder children improper cleaning may also be a cause. Long intervals between urination is another reason, because the ‘habit’ weakens the bladder muscles. In women who are sexually active, bacteria may be transferred from the anal and vaginal area to the urethra and the bladder. Too little water intake can trigger UTI too. While there is no one proven way to preventing UTI, the following suggestions are useful: • Drink plenty of liquids to flush bacteria out of the urinary system

In an attempt to curb the spread of the dangerous swine flu, our Foundation provided free homeopathic preventative medicine for its prevention. A preventive health camp was conducted from March 2-14, 2015, across 184 Dr Batras’ clinics in 98 cities in India. Our doctors provided free preventive medication for the prevention of swine flu to over 7,000 people. People from all walks of life, young and old, rich and poor, availed this community health-initiative and facility that was provided to them. This was a small, but significant step in our vision for a ‘disease-free India.’ ‘TOGETHER WE CAN CREATE THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE!’ Join the joy-of-giving crusade to make someone smile, TODAY! For further details, please call: 0-93208 16431. E: larissa.dmello@drbatras.com pearl.vadukoot@drbatras.com — to be a part, or donate. Do ‘like us’ on our Facebook page

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A H&Y ADVERTISING INITIATIVE

Nothing is as incapacitating as a severe backache, yet most people take their backs for granted, until it starts playing up. So, begin taking care of your back today. We prescribed Sushmita, the homeopathic remedy, Colocynth 200C, based on her presenting symptoms and case-analysis. It took just about a couple of months, following homeopathic treatment, for her to be rid of her back pain and get herself back on track.

• Wipe from the vagina to the anus after defaecation to avoid bacterial incursion • Drink water before and after sex so that one will urinate a good volume with a steady stream afterwards. This will help eliminate any bacteria that may have entered • Avoid tight clothing. It may irritate tissues, trap heat, and promote bacterial growth. Wear comfortable cotton underwear • Foods rich in vitamin C such as amla [Indian gooseberry], citrus fruits and cranberry juice help to reduce bacteria that are harmful to the urinary tract. We prescribed Sarah the homeopathic remedy, Cantharis 30C, based on her presenting and specific symptoms. Following homeopathic treatment and regular follow-up for three months, Sarah was able to get over the disorder and feel fully at home again in her cashier’s seat.

Rigidity Repressed By Dr MONICA SHARMA, BHMS, Chandigarh Twenty-seven-year-old Mukund, a business analyst, presented with ankylosing spondylitis. Painkillers, he reported, gave him but just transitory relief. He was subsequently put on disease-modifying conventional drugs, including steroids. Apart from the various sideeffects he had, as a result of conventional treatment, the disease continued progressing following which he decided to switch over to homeopathic treatment — perhaps, owing to desperation, if not conviction. Remember, when someone has early-morning stiffness and pain in their lower back, which becomes better or eases during the day with exercise, or as you get into your routine and have persistent pain for more than three months, it could be more than just a simple ‘wear and tear’ in your back. You could be suffering from ankylosing spondylitis [AS]. Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic form of arthritis; it is suggested to affect 1 in 200 people. It is three times more common in men than in women. It typically affects young people between age 15 and 30. AS is uncommon in people above age 40. The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not known. Research suggests that there is a strong link of it being genetically inherited. The HLA-B27 gene is detected in 93 per cent of people with this condition Ankylosing spondylitis is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, which means the body’s own defence cells damage the spine. This causes swelling between your vertebrae and the joints between your spine and pelvis. Pain and stiffness are the first symptoms — they are usually felt in the low back and upper buttocks. The rest of the spine and neck may also be affected. In

advanced cases where the fusion of the spine has taken place, there is complete loss of mobility. The areas become brittle and vulnerable for fracture. The spine also becomes inflexible [bamboo spine] — this makes standing and walking difficult. At times, AS may presage the development of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], while some patients may have fever, fatigue, weight loss, anaemia, inflammation of the eye [iritis]. In severe cases, there may be heart-valve dysfunction. Early, accurate diagnosis and therapy may minimise years of pain and disability. Rehabilitation therapies are also essential. Proper sleep and walking positions, coupled with abdominal and back exercises, help maintain posture. Exercises often help to maintain joint flexibility. Breathing exercises enhance lung capacity and swimming provides aerobic exercise. Continuing care is more than critical. AS is a life-long dilemma. Yet, the point often is people fail to continue treatment. This can lead to permanent posture and mobility loss. Homeopathic treatment can be a boon to AS patients if the intervention is started well in time. Homeopathic remedies work by optimising the body’s overactive immune [defence] system. The stage of the disease at which homeopathic treatment is started is a major determining factor in predicting healing outcomes. For example, if treatment is started in the initial stages when elastic tissue is not lost, the prognosis is good; besides, the condition can be reversed in most cases. When extensive bone formation has replaced elastic tissue, homeopathic treatment may not be able to reverse the disorder, but can yet help in easing the distressing symptoms. We prescribed Mukund the homeopathic remedy, Lycopodium 200C. After eight months of treatment, and regular follow-ups, he was able to discontinue his conventional medicines, because the intensity of pain and stiffness was greatly resolved. In course of time, the disorder stopped deteriorating; there was no further inflexibility of the spine. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

HOW HOMEOPATHY HELPED ME

Safe Weight Loss

was on homeopathic treatment for a year for reducing my excess weight that was obviously so much accumulated in my thighs, aside from my overall excess weight. By the end of the six months of treatment itself, I was able to reduce my overall weight by a good and healthy 4-5kg. I have also had a remarkable loss of flab in my thighs, where a great amount of fat had accumulated — which amplified my personal discomfort and embarrassment. My homeopath Dr Kamat was pragmatic in dealing with my case. This has helped me a lot. I thank him and homeopathy for changing my appearance and life. — Shama Sheikh, a patient of Dr Vaishali Kamat, BHMS, Mumbai

Sinus Relief

approached Dr Shivaranjini, the local homeopathic physician, with complaints of sinus headache and pain in my legs [varicose veins]. Following detailed consultation and check-up, the good doctor put me on treatment. It took just under six months for me to feel completely free of my leg pain and sinus headaches. I no longer need painkillers; I’m so happy for it. Homeopathy really works wonders. Thank you, Dr Shivaranjini for the care and treatment. I’m happy to say that homeopathy for been a boon... in my life. — Vikas Kamath, a patient of Dr Shivaranjini C, MD [Hom], Bengaluru

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

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

DOCTOR’S ORDERS

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

My wife, who is forty-five years old, is suffering from severe pain in her heel for a long time. Please suggest a homeopathic medicine. Heel pain can occur for a host of reasons, like calcaneal spur, plantar fascitis, pressure due to overweight, heel strain because of overexertion, ill-fitting footwear etc. Figuring out the cause is important in order to treat. Also, certain investigations like blood sugar levels and X-ray of the feet would be necessary. If your wife is overweight, weight loss is suggested. Use of soft footwear and placing one’s feet in warm water would help relieve the pain. Meanwhile, your wife could take the homeopathic remedy, Aranea Diadema 6C, 4-5 pills twice daily. Please consult a local homeopath, if symptoms persist.

journey. Avoid exposing yourself to strong odours, reading and sitting in a position that is opposite to the direction of travel. Keep the windows open and preferably sit in the front seat of the car. Sucking ginger or ginger crystals reduces nausea. You’d take the homeopathic remedy Cocculus Indicus 30C, 4-5 pills, half-an-hour before travel time for relief.

Q A

I am aged thirty-four and I’ve been recently diagnosed with urethral stricture. Please help. Homeopathy can offer symptomatic relief for symptoms of obstruction like frequent urination, along with dribbling, burning and straining. However, since yours is a ‘mechanical problem,’ it cannot be reversed completely with homeopathy, although the progress of constriction can be slowed down, or even stopped. A detailed case-study would be required to prescribe the appropriate remedy. In the meanwhile, you’d take the homeopathic remedy, Nitric Acid 30C, 4-5 pills once daily. In case of severe discomfort or constriction, you may have meet a surgeon and consider surgery.

Q A

I suffer from motion sickness. Is there a quick, effective remedy in homeopathy? Motion sickness refers to a combination of symptoms, such as dizziness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting an individual may face while traveling by bus, car, plane, or ship. The exact cause is yet to be scientifically proved. While 33 per cent of individuals are susceptible to motion sickness even in mild circumstances, 65 per cent develop it in severe form. Although motion sickness cannot be prevented completely, following a few precautions would help. Avoid eating or drinking too much water before starting a

Q A

My father, aged 54, is suffering from hepatitis C for the past four years. He has loss of appetite and weakness. Please help. Hepatitis C is an infectious disease affecting the liver. It is caused by the Hepatitis C virus. It gives rise to symptoms, such as decreased appetite, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, itching, etc. Your father shouldn’t take vitamins, nutritional supplements or over-the-counter [OTC] medications without discussing them with his doctor. He should also avoid alcohol. All patients with hepatitis C should be immunised against hepatitis A and B too. Homeopathic remedies can help symptomatically. A detailed case-study is required — this is best done at a local homeopath’s clinic. Meanwhile, you may give your dad, the homeopathic remedy, Nux Vomica 30C, 4-5 pills, once every evening. Please let me know his progress.

My ten-year-old son has several small, reddish eruptions on his neck and back since a few weeks. This happens every summer. Please advice. o you have a health Your son seems to be suffering from question? Need an miliaria rubra, commonly known as answer? prickly heat. This normally occurs in hot E-mail your health and humid conditions and when the sweat questions to: expertadvice@ gland ducts get plugged due to dead skin homeopathyandyou.com cells or bacteria and sweat gets trapped Renowned homeopath within, leading to irritation and formation Dr Mukesh Batra will of eruptions. Ideally, the problem can be answer your questions. managed by taking frequent cold showers, using talcum powder, wearing loose cotton clothes and minimising activities that can lead to excess sweating. If the itching is just too much, you’d give your son, the homeopathic remedy, Natrum Sulphuricum 6X, 2-4 tablets twice daily.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

FOR WOMEN

PREGNANCY & HOMEOPATHY Research has shown that homeopathy is safe and effective for pregnant women. It is not only effective for common pregnancy complaints; it also reduces labour time and makes delivery less painful. Besides, the lurking threat of complications before, during, or after childbirth, are considerably eased. By Dr TEJAL AJMERA-PATEL

regnancy is a time when most women avoid taking any form of medication because they are concerned about their possible side-effects on their unborn child. This makes perfect sense considering that in the past, conventional drugs like thalidomide, chloramphenicol, and streptomycin, to name a few, gave rise to foetal defects. Homeopathic remedies, however, are infinitesimally small, bioenergetic preparations that boost the immune system and stimulate the restorative processes of the body, so that it heals itself naturally without any side-effects.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

Research evidences that pregnant women taking homeopathy have had shortened labour time and less painful deliveries. Besides, the lurking risk of complications before, during, or after childbirth is reduced drastically. Here is a representative listing of common complaints that women may have during pregnancy, or after childbirth and homeopathic remedies that would be useful in treating such conditions safely â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and, without the fear of any adverse reaction on the mother or child.

FIRST TRIMESTER [1-12 Weeks] Nearly 80 per cent of pregnant women experience nausea and/or vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms are often worse in the mornings but can occur at any time of the day. Morning sickness is usually at its worse between weeks 6 and 12, though nausea and vomiting can be a problem at any stage of pregnancy. They are usually caused by hormonal changes, in particular, increased levels of progesterone. Women may feel worse when their stomach is empty, so it is a good idea to eat several small meals throughout the day. Many women also feel extremely tired during the early weeks. Frequent urination is common, and there may be a creamy white discharge from the vagina. Some women crave certain foods, and an extreme sensitivity to smell may worsen the nausea. The homeopathic remedy, Symphoricarpus Racemosa [Q; or, mother tincture], is recommended for persistent vomiting of pregnancy. Ferrum Phosphoricum 6X, is useful for iron deficiency anaemia. Natrum Phosphoricum 6X, likewise, acts as acid neutraliser and pH balancer. It helps to ease digestive problems, like reflux or heartburn. It also reduces nausea. SECOND TRIMESTER [13-28 Weeks] A woman’s appetite may increase at this time. By the 22nd week, most women would have felt their baby move. During the second trimester, nausea and vomiting often ease, and the pregnant woman feels much better and energetic. The heart rate increases, as does the volume of blood in the body. The second trimester is generally less eventful compared to the first. This is the time to undergo various tests, such as the Rh factor, VDRL, urine routine, and blood pressure to rule out kidney problems and hypertension. It may be mentioned that diseases in the mother, either inherent or contracted, can affect the foetus. For instance, jaundice can bring forth a stillbirth, chickenpox can cause foetal varicella defect syndrome, venereal disease can lead to congenital syphilis, and diabetes can cause post-maturity. All such diseases can be effectively tackled by using homeopathy. Nux Vomica 30C can be given for jaundice during pregnancy. Syzygium Jambolinum [Q; or, mother tincture], can be given twice daily for pregnancyinduced diabetes mellitus. THIRD TRIMESTER [29-40 Weeks] By the third trimester, most women begin to experience a range of common symptoms. Most women also feel hot, sweat easily and often find it hard to be comfortable. Kicks from an active baby may cause sharp pains and lower backaches are common. Around the 36th week, the baby’s head drops down low into the pelvis. This may relieve pressure on the upper abdomen and the lungs, allowing the woman to breathe more easily. However, the new position places

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

‘extra’ pressure on the bladder and the rectum causing other complaints, such as increased urinary frequency, constipation, acidity and piles. The infant’s position in the womb gradually begins to shift in preparation for its debut in the world and, with this, the baby’s weight pulls the lower part of the mother’s body forward, causing her to compensate by increasing the pelvic tilt and curving of the small of her back. This may cause backaches. The expanded uterus can also increase the possibility of varicose veins in the lower extremities owing to stagnation in blood supply. Senna 6C can act as a safe and mild laxative for pregnant women suffering from constipation. Aesculus 30C is effective for piles, when associated with a low backache. Rhus Toxicodendron 30C is recommended for backache better by movement and worse while lying down. Calcarea Flouricum 6X, together with Magnesium Phosphoricum 6X, often helps in relieving muscle spasms and restoring the elasticity of the blood vessels. FOR CHILDBIRTH During childbirth, the cervix could be slow to dilate; there may be severe pain, excessive bleeding, retained placenta and other difficulties. Homeopathy can help the mother to deliver the baby more comfortably. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that the length of labour in women on a homeopathic remedy was on an average three hours, 38 minutes shorter than in those on placebo [dummy pill]. The number of women having difficult births was also substantially lower; 11 per cent with the homeopathic remedy as against 40 per cent on placebo [Source: Cahiers de Biotherapie, April 1987, 94: 77-81]. A study carried out in Switzerland reported that in pregnant women using homeopathy, the frequency of situations requiring a Caesarean section was remarkably low [Source: Hochstrasser B, Mattmann P, Mainstream Medicine Versus Complementary Medicine [Homeopathic] Intervention: A Critical Methodology Study of Care in Pregnancy, Switzerland]. Arnica 30C is an indispensable remedy that can be given from time-to-time during labour to help the muscles function properly, relieve over-exertion during labour and reduce the bruised feeling after delivery. Kali Phosphoricum 6X relieves exhaustion during labour, including mental, emotional, and physical stress. Caulophyllum 30C is indicated for difficult labour where the cervix is slow to dilate and the pains are strong, but ineffective. Pulsatilla 30C is effective when contractions are irregular and weak, the cervix is slow to dilate, and the woman feels miserable, clingy, and tearful. She may actually want to give up and go home. AFTER CHILDBIRTH Homeopathic remedies can help to treat or prevent a number of distressing symptoms after childbirth.

Aconite 30C is indicated for shock following the fear of the intensity of birth, in the mother, the father, or the baby. Arnica 30C helps to relieve soreness, bruising, and after-pains. It is also helpful to treat babies who are bruised [due to long labour or forceps delivery]. Kali Phosphoricum 6X is an excellent remedy for mental exhaustion after delivery, with headache and tiredness, but where the woman is too excited to sleep, especially on the first or second day after childbirth. Pulsatilla 30C is useful in treating post-natal blues, especially when milk begins to flow. The typical indication for the remedy is the mother feels utterly miserable and bursts into tears over trivial issues; however, she feels much better on being consoled and comforted.

BREAST CARE AND LACTATION When the nipples are sore and cracked, Graphites may be applied locally as a cream. Fissure of the nipples is another common condition during lactation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; this can be treated with a few doses of Ratanhia 30C. To increase the flow of milk in mothers producing little or no milk, Asafoetida 30C is recommended. In mothers producing excessive milk, Borax 30C, can help to normalise the flow. Lac Caninum 30C, is useful in drying up milk in women who feel it is time to stop breastfeeding the child. It is imperative to speak to a professional homeopath as regards the appropriate remedy and dosage. Self-treatment is not recommended.

Dr Tejal Ajmera-Patel, MD [Hom], is a Mumbai-based homeopath. In her long, distinguished career, Dr Tejal has treated over one lakh patients â&#x20AC;&#x201D; most notably, difficult-to-treat disorders. As National Head-Business with a leading homeopathic healthcare group, her responsibilities also extend to training programmes for doctors.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

QUINTESSENCE

STRESS TO DESTRESS WITH HOMEOPATHY Homeopathy is mind-body medicine. It treats stress, depression and anxiety — safely and effectively — without side-effects, while helping the mind and body achieve balance and also harmony. By Dr SOURANGSHU BANERJEE

tress is a blurred response to the demands that life places on us. This is also how it builds up. In the course of time, it leads to stressful frustration — an indivisible component of modern life. Our day-to-day life too has its allocation of stresses: peer pressure, marital, financial and workplace problems, among others. There is not a single healthy person who is absolutely free from stress. All of us accumulate stressful feelings, sometimes for no real reason. The moment we get into this stressful ‘pothole,’ we are putting pressure on the system. Any further build up will only ‘blow it up.’ Besides, the more one keeps quiet, the more one is looking for an outlet, or emotional punch bag. This could be one’s wife, kid, or colleague. Stress occurs in three stages: • An initial period of alarm — or, physiological arousal • A longer phase of resistance — marked by irritability, impatience, anger and fatigue • A final stage of exhaustion — represented by physical and emotional imbalance, maladjustment, withdrawal, illness or disease; and, in some cases, death. One should, however, realise that not all stresses are stressful or negative — if only one deals with anxiety or stress effectively, it can work and help us to reach our goals faster. You’d think of this as ‘good’ stress, or ‘eustress’ — it motivates and propels us to do well in life and also career.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

Research shows that stress, in childhood or later years, affects the way our DNA is expressed. Childhood stress is something that most of us are becoming aware of only recently. One study has found that children who were traumatised or suffered neglect or abuse, while growing up, were over one-and-a-half times as likely as others to develop heart disease, cancer and other serious illnesses in adulthood. Statistics suggests that 75 per cent of the general population experiences at least some form of stress every two weeks • 45 per cent of people report anger/irritability due to stress and 34 per cent report feeling sad or depressed • 48 per cent report of overeating or eating unhealthy food to manage stress. Stress, anxiety and depression are primarily a result of either psychological or physiological causes. An unsolved emotional issue can affect an individual’s physical health just as much as emotional well-being. On the other hand, it can lead to biochemical imbalances or deficiencies, while influencing their mental and emotional outlook negatively. It is, indeed, ironical that the connection between mind and body is often overlooked in most conventional protocols. As a matter of fact, even mild-to-moderate mental or emotional illness can have unfavourable effects on our body. Research suggests that mild forms of depression can hasten death in patients with heart disease.

Likewise, stress is suggested to elevate cholesterol levels, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease. YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Whenever I go for an interview, I get really nervous, much more than any normal person. I feel terribly weak as well. This also happens during any presentation or talk that I have to give. Can homeopathy help me? You seem to be suffering from anticipatory anxiety which can be treated well with homeopathy. You should try deep breathing, muscle relaxation, visualising peaceful scenes, and/or listening to soothing music whenever you anticipate such episodes. Regular meditation and yoga will also help to calm down your nerves. Start taking the homeopathic remedy, Gelsemium 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, for few days. If symptoms persist, consult a local homeopathic doctor for constitutional treatment. I have been facing a lot of work pressure in my office due to which I have become irritable. I often vent out my stress at home on my wife and son. I end up feeling guilty. I would like to find a permanent solution to this problem — can homeopathy help me? The good thing in your case is that you realise that you are stressed. Most people don’t even realise this and keep venting their frustrations on the family. Do not worry. Homeopathy can definitely help you cope with your workplace stress — though it cannot help reduce your workload! You will gradually be able to handle stress better than before. Start taking Kali Phosphoricum 6X, 2-4 tablets, twice daily, to calm your mind. If symptoms persist, consult a local homeopath. I have been suffering from severe acidity and indigestion for the past few months. Business stress seems to be the cause, I think. To top it, I don’t get to eat on time and my meals are often irregular. Please advice. Well, you need to first correct the ‘root-cause’ of your problem and you know it how. Fix your meal timings and eat at regular intervals. Your food should be non-spicy and cooked with minimal oil. Include plenty of vegetables and fresh fruits in your daily diet. You may, of course, take Nux Vomica 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, for a few days. If your symptoms persist, consider taking constitutional homeopathic treatment under a local homeopath. I have become gloomy ever since my father passed away. I have lost all interest in work. I do my office job mechanically. I thought it was a passing phase, but I am not getting better. What should I do? Death of loved ones is traumatic for the mind, but your life has to get back on track. Start by eating healthy foods and avoid alcohol and smoking. Regular exercise will give your mind the much required boost. Talk to people close to you and express your feelings openly, rather than suppressing

them. Start taking Ignatia 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. If your symptoms still persist, consult a professional homeopathic doctor. HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY For over 200 years, homeopaths have treated stress, depression and anxiety — safely and successfully— without side-effects. Homeopathy is mind-body medicine. It aims to help the mind and body achieve balance and also harmony. Stress is often the outcome of shock, grief, disappointment or life-changes. It can leave one drained and vulnerable to illness, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. When stress is left untreated, stress responses can become long-term, or chronic. Stress and health are closely linked. Chronic, long-standing stress can induce a number of mind-body disorders, including mood swings and substance abuse, not to speak of systemic disorders like high blood pressure and diabetes. Homeopathy helps to rebalance the mind and emotions. It is effective in people of all ages — from children with emotional or behavioural problems to adults bogged down by stress, anxiety and depression. In a national survey, conducted by The Society of Homeopaths, UK, and published in The Homeopath, 87 per cent of patients who complained of stress-related mental and emotional problems reported positive changes after homeopathic treatment. A group of people with above-average levels of anxiety were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo [dummy pill]controlled trial and assigned to either a test or control [placebo] group to assess the relative benefits of a combination homeopathic product designed to relieve anxiety. Using sleep loss as a measure of anxiety, the combination product produced results that were better than placebo. In a clinical trial, a group of students suffering from testinduced anxiety were given either the homeopathic remedy Argentum Nitricum, or placebo [dummy pill]. The level of test-induced anxiety was significantly reduced by the homeopathic remedy when compared to placebo, and this effect appeared to persist over time. SELF-HELP • Focus your attention fully on some other activity when stressed or anxious; something you like doing • Try relaxation techniques; find the one that suits your needs best • Meditate, help others, spend time with them, speak to, or visit friends • Physical exercise — walk, swim, go to the gym, cycle, or take the stairs, instead of the lift • Avoid stimulants like alcohol and coffee [also smoking] • Limit your responsibilities. It’s all right to say ‘no.’

Dr Sourangshu Banerjee, MD [Hom], is a Kolkata-based homeopath.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

YOUR LITTLE BOX: HOMEOPATHIC KIT FOR EVERY HOME

VERATRUM ALBUM: MORE THAN A TUMMY REMEDY The homeopathic remedy, Veratrum Album, is evidenced to work best in individuals who are impatient, sanctimonious, excessively critical, proud, sad, and introverted, or hate being alone. By Dr BINDU SHARMA

hite hellebore, or Veratrum Album, is extremely toxic in all its parts. It was apparently used in ancient Rome on the tips of weapons. Although its toxicity profile has restricted its use in herbal medicine, the plant has been used in insecticides and veterinary medicine. The homeopathic remedy was first proved by Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the founder of homeopathy. As a matter of fact the homeopathic Veratrum Album, along with Camphor, was successfully used to treat victims of the 19th-century cholera epidemic in Europe. This helped Hahnemann’s standing as much as the good therapeutic efficacy of homeopathy. Veratrum Album is evidenced to work best in individuals who are impatient, sanctimonious, overly critical, proud, sad, and introverted, or hate being alone. A restless or frenzied state, possibly with cyclic behaviour, may also be apparent in people who are best ‘suited’ for this remedy. Typical physical symptoms include a poor immune system, awfully cold skin and sweating, with chill possibly extending to the breath and tongue, along with a blue pallor, a rapid pulse, weakness, anaemia, extreme thirst, not to speak of cravings for fruit or icecream. Symptoms tend to become worse for damp cold, at night, following a bowel movement, and after eating fruit. The remedy is usually given for incapacitating gastrointestinal problems with relentless vomiting and diarrhoea. It is also used to treat collapse and some emotional problems.

COLLAPSE Weakness with a clammy, sweaty forehead, bluetinged skin, dehydration, and possible fainting. This may be due to cramps, violent vomiting, and diarrhoea, especially in pregnancy. Other potential causes include acute fright, menstrual pain, or heatstroke. Symptoms are better for being covered; from lying

down. Symptoms are worse by touch; at night; bowel movements and cold drinks. DIARRHOEA Severe diarrhoea, along with vomiting, due to cholera, dysentery, gastroenteritis, or other digestive disorders. Stools are watery, green, or colourless. Painful cramps may accompany such bouts, and exhaustion may follow; this being primarily caused by dehydration and exhaustion. There may be great thirst for cold water and a voracious appetite, as well as cravings for sour foods, ice, and salt. Symptoms are better by lying down, hot drinks, warm foods, and milk. Symptoms are worse by touch, movement and cold drinks. EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS Behavioural issues such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD] in children or emotional disturbances due to certain trauma of childbirth may be prominent. The individual may be gloomy and uninterested. There may be a sense of insecurity too about social position or a lack of it, alternating with brutal aspirations and delusions of opulence, or of becoming the victim of some calamity. Symptoms are better by warmth, lying down and when carried — especially in children. Symptoms are worse at night, exertion, fright, before and during menstruation, or when one’s sentiments or sensibilities are hurt. VOMITING & NAUSEA Fierce vomiting with nausea, a cold feeling in the abdomen, slimy sweat, salty saliva, and possibly diarrhoea and collapse. Symptoms are better while lying down, being covered, hot drinks, warm foods, and milk. Symptoms are worse by touch, the slightest movement, night and also cold drinks. Dosage. Veratrum Album 30C, 4-5 pills, 3-4 times daily, or as prescribed, or advised, by your homeopathic physician.

Dr Bindu Sharma, BHMS, PG [Hom], UK, a gold medallist in homeopathy from Hahnemann College, UK, is Director, Medical Services, with a leading speciality homeopathic healthcare group. She is actively involved in monitoring quality patient care, including regular training of all doctors across the group. Her medical expertise in the treatment of difficult cases, as well as those not responding well to medication, has received appreciation from her patients and peers.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

HOMEOPATHIC HAPPENINGS

GELSEMIUM EFFECT: THE BRIDGE BETWEEN HOMEOPATHY & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

ecent studies conducted in human/animal cells have suggested that homeopathic remedies may have an effect on the gene regulation, initiating a cascade of gene actions to correct disorders, or disease, at a cellular level. A new study focused attention on the possible gene modulation effect of Gelsemium Sempervirens, a traditional medicinal plant employed in phytotheraphy and homeopathy as a nervous system relaxant to treat various types of anxiety, pain, headache and other ailments. Previous investigations had shown a significant anxiolytic-like activity of Gelsemium in high dilutions in mice emotional models. To follow up on the above evidence, the study team further investigated the remedy’s mechanism of action in in vitro neuronal models in order to assess the effects of a wide range of drug dilutions on whole genome expression. For this gene expression study the research team used sensitive microarray and real-time techniques that are able to survey the whole human transcriptome and specific genes of interest respectively. In this case the high-throughput

microarray analysis assisted by bioinformatics could provide a strong clue as to the mechanism of action and the biological relevance of ultra-low doses, whereas the real-time technique was useful in order to validate the microarray data and further investigate a narrow group of genes, i.e., a panel of human neurotransmitter receptors and regulators, involved in neuronal excitatory signalling. To further investigate the possible mechanisms of gene regulation, the team also analysed the possible effect of Gelsemium on the methylation status of a group of genes involved in mental disorders. The chief innovation in the experimental design was that it employed a wide range of doses/ dilutions: from low dilutions [2C or 3C], where the active substances can still be expected to exert their normal pharmaceutical action, to high dilutions [9C or 30C], where the most controversial principles of high dilution pharmacology come into play. The team articulated that this type of investigation may be useful to start building a bridge between the more subjective point of view of symptomatology — the basis of the homeopathic remedy choice — and HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

a more accurate and objective one, consisting in the identification of specific molecular markers related with the disease and the prescribed remedy. The results of this study, conducted with three different techniques, provided evidence that Gelsemium exerts a prevalently inhibitory effect on a series of genes across a wide dose-range. The results suggest the extreme sensitivity of human gene expression to regulation by ultra-low doses and high dilutions/dynamisations of a plant remedy would

encourage further efforts in research on this field. Studies using sensitive genetic approaches, as the study concluded, may be par ticularly suitable for sur veying of the effects of highly diluted natural compounds and for the identification of specific molecular markers related with the disease. — Source: Debora Olioso, Mar ta Marzotto, Clara Bonafini, and Paolo Bellavite, Depar tment of Pathology and Diagnostics, University of Verona, Italy.

HOMEOPATHY & SWINE FLU What we do to prevent illness, or disease, is called preventative medicine, or prophylaxis. Homeopathy has had a long history as a safe, effective form of preventative therapy. As a matter of fact, homeopathy, ever since its inception, has been able to treat epidemic illnesses with a good, substantial rate of success, when compared to conventional [allopathic] treatment. Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the founder of homeopathy, achieved remarkable results in the prevention and treatment of major epidemics — such as typhus, cholera, yellow fever, among others. He was also the first physician to prepare Hydrophobinum, a homeopathic remedy, made from the saliva of a rabid dog to treat hydrophobia — a condition caused by the bite of a mad dog — when Louis Pasteur, the founder of vaccination, was just eight years old. In the infamous Spanish flu of 1918, to cull a distinctive example, which is also evidenced to being a form of swine flu, over 100 million deaths were reported. In a significant article published in The Journal of the American Institute of Homeopathy, it was documented ‘that of the 26,795 cases of the flu treated by homeopathic physicians, the mortality rate was just 1.05 per cent, while the average reported loss of life by conventional [allopathic] physicians was 30 per cent.’ The Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy [CCRH], under AYUSH, has formulated that the homeopathic remedy Arsenicum Album 30C, one dose [4 pills of size 30, for adults, and 2 pills for children] daily, on empty stomach, for 3 days, as being a useful homeopathic preventative. The dose, as the homeopathic expert panel suggests, should be repeated after one month, by following the same schedule, in the event flu-like conditions prevailed in the area. More recently, a team of homeopathic experts in Pune studied a group of diagnosed and hospitalised cases of swine flu. They researched

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

and concluded that Arsenicum Album as being the ‘classical’ homeopathic prophylaxis for the swine flu epidemic, and that it could play ‘an important role in preventative treatment.’ It may also be surmised, from the curative standpoint, that most homeopathic physicians, in a majority of flu cases, have achieved safe and effective clinical results with Gelsemium, especially in the early stages, and Bryonia, when respiratory symptoms predominate. The third most common remedy used is Eupatorium Perfoliatum, when flu presents with characteristic, agonising aches in the muscles, especially of the bones — ‘as if they would break.’ An interesting story would highlight the efficacy of homeopathic treatment in flu epidemics. A physician, in an American hospital, asked a nurse, if she knew anything better than what he was doing, because he was losing several cases. “Yes, doctor, stop aspirin [which most likely precipitated mortality rates] and go down to a homeopathic pharmacy, and get homeopathic remedies.” The doctor replied, “But, that is homeopathy.” “I know it, but the homeopathic doctors, for whom I have nursed, have not lost a single case.”

WHAT LIES BENEATH: MYSTERIES OF HOMEOPATHY

HOMEOPATHY: PATIENT-CENTRIC MEDICINE Homeopathy views disease, not as a foe, but as an opportunity for change and growth. It emphasises on ‘patient care’ rather than ‘disease care.’ It believes that it is more imperative to know what individual has the illness than to know what illness the individual has. By Dr RAJGOPAL NIDAMBOOR

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

leads to drug-resistance or what is referred to as iatrogenic disorders — or, drug-induced diseases. Symptoms are, from the homeopathic point-of-view, the outward manifestation of the disease, not the cause of it. From the homeopathic perspective, therefore, a ‘specific’ remedy that is ‘appropriate’ to the illness is needed to trigger the body’s own natural response to the illness, or disease process. Homeopathy is a complete, safe, holistic form of complementary medicine. What’s more, homeopathic treatment: • Respects the body’s own healing processes • Avoids needless medication • Recognises that every individual is unique. Homeopathy views disease, not as a foe, but as an opportunity for change and growth. In ancient systems of medicine it was believed that the body was self-regulating, and that disease occurred when this self-regulatory process became disrupted. In contemporary terms, we speak of feedback loops. When these feedback mechanisms get ‘jammed’ or disrupted, imbalances and dissonance occur. We call this, being ‘sick’ in mind-body. Homeopathic treatment aims to help our body return to dynamic [re]alignment. Homeopathy focuses not on endpoint or pathological state, but on the vibrant, dynamic processes which underlie and precede it. While acknowledging the existence of pathology as well as a need to understand it, homeopathic HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

treatment focuses on the underlying processes. It employs a holistic avenue of therapy which engages these fundamental, or causal, events. Homeopathy looks at how you are ‘doing’ and ‘feeling’ — your life, your well-being, what you eat, your work environment, your relationships and communication with others, how you relax and play, your hobbies, what medications you’ve taken, how well your digestive system functions, and what chemicals, pollutants and allergens, you’ve been exposed to. Your treatment programme is engaged to reflect your individualised, or personal, needs — and, not just your illness needs. Modern medicine talks about ‘prevention.’ Picture this — pap smears, cholesterol and blood pressure screening, and cancer testing, for example, are all tests for early detection of disease, not their prevention. Homeopathy is concerned with real prevention of disease. It pays attention to small, tiny details, or health issues, with which one can prevent large problems, before they raise their ugly heads. HOMEOPATHY: FOCUSED MEDICINE Homeopathic remedies are derived from natural substances that come from plants, minerals, or animals. Patient-centred medicine. Homeopathy emphasises on ‘patient care’ rather than ‘disease care.’ Homeopathy believes that it is more imperative to know what individual has the illness than to know what illness the individual has. Treats the interconnected web of functional factors. New research supports the homeopathic view that the human body functions as an orchestrated, synchronous network of interconnected systems, rather than individual systems functioning autonomously and without effect on each other. For example, we now know that immunological dysfunctions can trigger heart disease, dietary flaws can cause hormonal disturbances, and environmental factors can precipitate neurologic syndromes — e.g., Parkinson’s disease. Preventative medicine. Homeopathy does not only treat symptoms alone; it stimulates the body’s natural defence mechanisms. It investigates a patient’s temperament, personality, lifestyle and background to be able to think of him, or her, as a unique individual. Homeopathy builds up your immunity, while taking into account your well-being and helping your systems to prevent illness and disease before they get established. No side-effects. Homeopathic remedies have no sideeffects. They can be used on infants, babies, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, youth, adults and in the elderly. However, it is always imperative to consult a professional homeopathic physician for proper guidance and effective treatment. Low-cost. Conventional medicine seems to be getting far too expensive. Homeopathic medicines are so inexpensive that most people can afford to use them without upsetting their monthly budgets. In countries like

France, for example, expenses incurred on homeopathic medicines, when prescribed by a doctor, are reimbursed by the government. Ease-of-use. Children, even the most fussy of them, love those little ‘sugar pills.’ It is easy- to-take. Homeopathic remedies can be dissolved under the tongue, or taken as a liquid or drops. They can also be easily dissolved in water and taken. Reduces the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics for viral infections can be unsafe. Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections; their overuse, or misuse, which is common, can increase the risk of developing antibiotic resistance, the bugbear of conventional medical practice today. Homeopathy is effective for viral and bacterial infections; it is also much less expensive than antibiotics, or other conventional medicines. Effective before and after surgery. Homeopathic remedies can be used to prepare a patient physically and psychologically for surgery, including dental procedures, and hasten the healing process. They can also be used to prevent bruising, bleeding, nausea and anxiety, preoperatively and also post-operatively Treats a wide range of medical conditions. From treating simple fever, other illnesses and allergies to gynaecological conditions, homeopathy can be effectively used in emotional, psychological and a host of chronic physical or bodily illnesses. It is also effective in alleviating symptoms caused by pregnancy and menopause. There are dozens of effective homeopathic remedies for nearly every medical condition, except certain medical emergencies, such as major accidents, heart attack, or stroke and mechanical problems like hernia. They can, however, be used, with good effect, alone, or complement and optimise the effects of conventional medicine, especially in disorders such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Not tested on animals. Conventional drugs undergo extensive laboratory testing, mostly on animals. Homeopathic remedies are non-toxic; they are tested on healthy people who can best describe — subjectively and independently — how each remedy affects them in both health and illness. Not placebo [dummy pill]. Homeopathy has been used on children with excellent outcomes. It has also been used on animals and even plants. It has proved to be effective in treating them. You can’t create the placebo effect, as some sceptics argue, in children, animals, or plants. FDA approved. Although the FDA advises individuals to consult a professional homeopathic physician, or therapist, for homeopathic treatment and to keep remedies out of the reach of children, the regulating body suggests that homeopathic remedies can be bought without a doctor’s prescription. No homeopathic remedy has, so far, been pulled out of the market by the FDA — unlike conventional drugs, which make such news — ‘withdrawn from the market’ — practically every day.

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

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

HOM[E]O TRUTHS

HOMEOPATHIC ‘DETOX’ FOR OPTIMAL WELLNESS A homeopathic detox plan involves the use of select homeopathic plant and mineral remedies to open up the process and stimulate the programme to work more efficiently — at the mind, body, and energy levels.

detoxify our body and restore optimal health t’s a dirty, dirty world out there. We are and well-being. As a rule, most professional breathing or ingesting more and more homeopathic physicians would advice their toxins than our body is designed to process patients to take a single remedy, or a combination and expel. So much so, the liver, not to speak of remedies, and go through the ‘riddance of the kidney — the primary organs that process,’ at least once every year. help in ‘purging’ our body of wastes, are BY DR MUKESH A homeopathic detox plan does not require one overburdened and stressed to remove our BATRA to fast, or opt for a crash diet programme. Most toxic load and function with optimal efficiency. homeopathic physicians would, again, recommended Blame it too on excess, unwanted or strong that you eat a wholesome, sattvic [pure or sentient, in conventional and other medications, vaccines, food Sanskrit] diet with lots of fresh, organic vegetables, while additives, colours and refined foods — they all tend to avoiding the use of meat, synthetic additives, refined accumulate in the body and add to our toxic burden. foods, or preservatives. Cigarette, tobacco, alcohol, They hamper the complete breakdown of toxins, no less. caffeine and aerated drinks, are also a big ‘no.’ Besides, thanks to a glut of newer, multifarious additives, The most important steps in the homeopathic detox pesticides and trans-fatty-acids, our body does not process are as follows: easily recognise them. The result is our toxic overload may slowly clog our bodily systems and physiological • Hydrate yourself well — drink at least 2-3 litre of filtered functioning. water every day during the detox process There are a host of homeopathic remedies that have • Sleep well, do moderate exercise and minimise stress — the therapeutic ability in them to cleanse, drain and they all help in detox HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

• Incorporate certain detox adjuncts, along with ‘select’ homeopathic remedies — for example, sauna, skin brushing and nutritional supplements, such as vitamin C [2,000 mg in supplement form; take one 500 mg tablet, four times a day]. It is also imperative for one to ascertain from a professional homeopath suitable remedies, including the duration or length of a detox programme relevant to one’s individual needs. Should you feel ill, or suffer from headache, or constipation, during a detox programme, consult your homeopath immediately. You should, again, speak to your homeopath in order to know which bodily systems need to be ‘engaged’ in flushing out toxins, or what symptoms to expect during the detox process and take care of them. Bowels. A bowel detox is helpful if you suffer from alternating constipation or diarrhoea, leaky gut syndrome, allergies and food sensitivities, or compromised immune function. Kidney. A kidney detox is ideal if you have dark circles under your eyes, or painful, urgent or frequent urination. Liver. A liver detox plan is recommended if you suffer from constipation, poor digestion, fatigue, bad breath, or sore breasts before periods. Lymphatics. A lymphatic detox is advised if you have sore and bulbous tissue, just under the skin, swollen lymph nodes and aching soft tissues. Lungs. You will need a lung and sinus detox, if you have chronic repiratory problems, such as nasal allergies, asthma and bronchitis, or suffer from chronic cough and sinusitis. Skin. A skin detox programme is useful if you report of persistent skin allergies, acne [pimples], atopic

dermatitis [eczema], hair loss, dry skin and rashes, body odour [BO], and excessive sweating. HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY A homeopathic detox plan involves the use of select low potency homeopathic plant and mineral remedies to open up the detox process and also stimulate the detox programme to work more efficiently, also safely — at the mind, body, and energy levels. Homeopathic detox is aimed to primarily help the body to recognise what is being ‘stored’ within as toxins. Homeopathic remedies arouse our latent, innate body-mind intelligence and immunity effectively — this helps us to realise there is something that is not an essential part of our natural physiology. During such a process, the toxins are passed out through the cell walls into the blood and lymph systems — they are, thereafter, flushed out of the system. Most professional homeopathic physicians would recommend the kidneys and the liver as a good place to start a detox plan, because the two are the key organs that ‘filter’ blood. The liver is the organ where toxins are converted to non-toxic soluble substances and excreted. Here is a select list of systems and corresponding homeopathic detox remedies — they are best prescribed and monitored by a professional homeopathic physician. Bowels: Hydrastis Canadensis Kidney: Solidago Liver: Carduus Marianus Lymphatics: Calcarea Carbonicum Respiratory: Balsamum Peruvianum Skin: Vinca Minor.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

GRIN & BEAR IT

LAUGHTER,

THE BEST MEDICINE Q&A: DOCTORS’ ‘PUN-INTENDED’ Q: I’VE HEARD THAT CARDIOVASCULAR EXERCISE CAN PROLONG LIFE; IS THIS TRUE? A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that’s it... Don’t waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that’s like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap. Q: SHOULD I CUT DOWN ON MEAT AND EAT MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES? A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay, and corn. And, what are these? Vegetables. So, a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Meat is also a good source of field grass [green leafy vegetable]. And a meat chop can give you 100 per cent of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products. Q: SHOULD I REDUCE MY ALCOHOL INTAKE? A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine; this means they take the water out of the fruity bit, so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Q: HOW CAN I CALCULATE MY BODY/FAT RATIO? A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one. Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES OF PARTICIPATING IN A REGULAR EXERCISE PROGRAMME? A: Can’t think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: no pain… good!

Q: IS GETTING IN-SHAPE IMPORTANT FOR MY LIFESTYLE? A: Hey. ‘Round’ is a shape. Well, I hope this has cleared the misconceptions you may have had about lifestyle. THE [IN]CURABLE DISEASE A man went to see his doctor because he was suffering from a miserable cold. His doctor prescribed some pills, but they didn’t help. On his next visit the doctor gave him a shot, but that didn’t do any good. On his third visit, the doctor told the man, “Go home and take a hot bath. As soon as you finish bathing throw open all the windows and stand in the draft. Then turn on the air-conditioner and stand in front of it until you start shivering. And, repeat this cycle three times.” “But doc,” protested the patient, “if I do that, I’ll get pneumonia.” “I know,” said the doctor, “I can cure pneumonia.” SURGICAL PRECISION Three doctors are on duck hunting and a bird flies overhead. The general practitioner looks at it and says, “Looks like a duck, flies like a duck... It’s probably a duck.” He shoots at it but his delay makes him miss and the bird flies away. The next bird flies overhead, and the pathologist looks at it, then looks through the pages of a bird manual, and says, “Hmm... green wings, yellow bill, quacking sound... might be a duck.” He raises his gun to shoot it, but the bird is long gone. A third bird flies over. The surgeon raises his gun and shoots almost without looking, brings the bird down, and turns to the pathologist and says, “Go, see, if that was a duck.” [Culled and Collated from the ‘Net]

Q: AREN’T FRIED FOODS BAD FOR YOU? A: You’re not listening. Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they’re permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you? Q: WILL SIT-UPS HELP PREVENT ME FROM GETTING A LITTLE SOFT AROUND THE MIDDLE? A: Definitely not. When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach. Q: IS CHOCOLATE BAD FOR ME? A: Are you crazy? Hello, cocoa beans. Another vegetable. It’s the best ‘feel-good’ food around. Q: IS SWIMMING GOOD FOR YOUR FIGURE? A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

“You’ll have to eat that donut outdoors. Nobody wants to inhale secondhand carbs!” Courtesy: www.glasbergen.com

LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

PRESCRIPTION FOR TROUBLE Hundreds of thousands of prescriptions made in a year are wrong, entirely unnecessary, or needlessly dangerous. In addition, we seem to be at a point where both doctors and patients do not realise that practically any symptom can be caused or worsened by drugs.

prescriptions a year] t is agreed that prescription drugs can • A recent study found that nearly 1 out of 4 be useful — even life saving — for some community-dwelling patients 65 years or older people. When used as directed and/or only were using at least one drug inappropriately when absolutely necessary, prescriptions By RYAN N prescribed can be a blessing. However, to cull a major HARRISON • There are more than 9.6 million adverse drug downside, WorstPills.org has published reactions that occur in older Americans per year, some staggering statistics related to the 37 per cent of which are not reported to the doctor, misprescribing, overprescribing, and misuse presumably because patients do not connect the of prescription drugs that is all too common within our reactions with the drugs they are taking current medical trends, or big pharma practice: • Each year over 414,000 people develop serious • In 2003, an estimated 3.4 billion prescriptions were complications [e.g., life-threatening heart toxicity, filled in retail drugstores and by mail order in the United ulcers, mental impairment] directly linked to the use States and/or misuse of prescriptions given to them by their • Data from 2000 suggests that more than twice as many doctors prescriptions were filled for 65 and older [averaging 23.5 • Two million Americans are addicted or at risk of prescriptions a year] than for those younger than 65 [10.1 HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

addiction to minor tranquillisers or sleeping pills because they have used them daily for at least one year • Drug-induced tardive dyskinesia [characterised by involuntary movements of the lips, tongue, fingers, toes, and trunk] has developed in 73,000 older adults, and is often irreversible. This is just the tip of the iceberg. What these numbers suggest is that our culture’s current medical system has written us a prescription for serious trouble. Hundreds of thousands of prescriptions made in a year are wrong, entirely unnecessary, or needlessly dangerous. In addition, we seem to be at a point where both doctors and patients do not realise that practically any symptom can be caused or worsened by drugs. Such adverse reactions get overlooked, shrugged off or unrecognised until they have caused significant — and, sometimes irreversible — harm. MISPRESCRIBING & OVERPRESCRIBING Misprescribing, if nothing else, wastes literally tens of billions of dollars, barely affordable by the majority of people who pay for their own prescriptions. But, the consequences are much more serious than that. WorstPills.org reports that “more than 1.5 million people are hospitalised and more than 100,000 die each year from largely preventable adverse reactions to drugs that should not have been prescribed as they were in the first place.” There seems to be seven ‘deadly sins’ of misprescribing and overprescribing that occur with alarming regularity within our current medical system: • Drugs are prescribed to ‘treat’ an adverse reaction of another drug which could be replaced with a safer alternative or taken at a lower dose. “FIFTY-FOUR-YEAR-OLD WOMAN HOMEBOUND FROM LUNG TOXICITY DUE TO A HEART DRUG NEVER APPROVED TO TREAT HER CONDITION.” Liz was prescribed the drug Cordarone to treat a common heart condition. No one told her the drug was not FDA-approved for her condition. The leaflet from the pharmacy mentioned nausea and dizziness as a possible side-effect, but not death from lung toxicity. She is now dependent on an oxygen tank to breathe and hasn’t even the energy to clean her house. It is estimated that as many as 17 per cent of patients experience lung toxicity from such drugs, and about 10 per cent of them die. • Drugs are prescribed to treat problems that could be remedied by making healthy lifestyle changes. • Drugs are prescribed for medical issues that are completely unresponsive to such treatments or that do not merit treatment with certain drugs. • Drugs are prescribed which are stronger than necessary or less safe than an alternative. • Drugs are prescribed that have dangerous consequences when they interact with other drugs.

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• Two or more drugs are prescribed to be taken together when only one of them is necessary, therefore not adding to the effectiveness of the treatment but clearly increasing the risk to the patient. • Drugs are prescribed appropriately, but the dose is dangerously high. As unsettling as it might seem, recent studies confirm that the seven ‘deadly sins’ are committed constantly across the United States, and also in several parts of the globe. Research has shown that many doctors resort to prescribing drugs far too quickly. As reported by WorstPills.org: In one study, in which doctors and nurse practitioners were presented with part of a clinical scenario – as would occur when first seeing a patient with a medical problem – and then encouraged to ask to find out more about the source of the problem, 65 per cent of doctors recommended that a patient complaining of insomnia be treated with sleeping pills. Had they asked more questions about the patient, they would have found that the patient was not exercising, was drinking coffee in the evening, and, although awakening at 4:00am, was actually getting seven hours of sleep by then. Apparently, doctors are becoming less concerned with what is actually wrong with the patient and more concerned with which prescription to write out. Unfortunately, this approach is firmly supported by a barrage of promotional materials that doctors receive from pharmaceutical companies vying for the number one spot on the ‘hot list’ of drugs. FDA What about the FDA? Isn’t the government supposed to provide some measure of protection? Unfortunately, the FDA has been weakening steadily since the late 1990s; in 1996 and 1997 the FDA approved a larger number of drugs than had ever been approved in any two-year period. In addition, FDA enforcement over-advertising of drugs

the drug industry. In like manner, it seems that some pharmacists have been bought out by drug companies, even going so far as to call doctors directly to get them to switch patients’ prescriptions in order to secure higher profits. Additionally, pharmacy organisations [like the American Pharmaceutical Association] have actually fought intensely to prevent the FDA from requiring accurate patient package information to be dispensed with each prescription filled. And while most pharmacies have computers to aid them in their work, too many pharmacists have been willing to fill prescriptions for combinations of drugs that, because of life-threatening adverse drug interactions, should never be dispensed to the same person. — targeting everyday citizens with no medical training or education whatsoever — has nearly disappeared. From a peak number of 157 enforcement actions to stop illegal prescription drug ads that understate risks and/ or overstate benefits in 1998, the number decreased to only 24 — an 85 per cent decrease — in 2003. Sadly, the division at FDA responsible for policing prescription drug ads has never been given adequate resources to keep up with the flood of newly approved drugs. “SEVEN-YEAR-OLD BOY DIES FROM DRUG PRESCRIBED FOR ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER” A bright boy, Bernie was prescribed the antidepressant imipramine [Tofranil] to treat ADHD. Because his parents were not given accurate, complete information about the drug, they did not know that it could cause life-threatening heart arrhythmias, and that the dose was too high. Nor were they aware that the tremors and convulsions Bernie began to experience were actually adverse reactions to the drug. Treatment was continued and one day, while at school, Bernie collapsed and died of a heart arrhythmia. PHYSICIANS & PHARMACISTS Yet another angle that needs to be considered is the role of the physician and pharmacist where the misprescribing, overprescribing, and over-drugging is concerned. It is obvious that the well-financed promotional campaigns by drug companies would not have such a large impact as they do were there not such an education vacuum about proper prescribing of drugs, a dilemma that must be laid at the feet of medical schools and residency training facilities. While the best doctors – of whom there are many – do not waste their time entertaining drug sales people, toss promotional materials away, and ignore the majority of drug advertisements in medical journals, too many other doctors are heavily influenced by the ‘power’ of

THE PATIENT Though admittedly unequal to the task of understanding the ins and outs of prescription drugs and the incessant barrage of medical issues in the news, patients must take some of the responsibility for the over-drugging of the society. Certainly, the development of the present ‘quickfix’ culture has supported a medical system that is intent on farming out pills for every ailment. If demand produces supply, then we must look at our own habits and desires, where medication and medical issues are concerned. Much of the problem is simply one of lack of knowledge. Patients, much less knowledgeable about such things than their physicians, are often unaware of alternative approaches to conventional pharmaceutical treatments. Because they rely on the expertise of their doctors, most people blindly accept what they are told and swallow the pills prescribed. In this era of drug company-induced illness and disease, patients need to equip themselves with healthy scepticism and some common sense, and be willing and able to question their physicians about alternative, safer forms of therapy. CONCLUSION The misprescribing and overprescribing of drugs is a trend with such velocity that it seems to be unstoppable. The power of the pharmaceutical companies and drug industry is massive and underestimated. As a result, millions of drug-induced diseases and their attendant complications and consequences are experienced each year by unsuspecting people who trust their doctors implicitly. Educating yourself about alternative and natural treatment options has become more important than ever before and several resources are available to people who desire a different way of relating to and treating their ailments. While others may be responsible for the misprescribing and overprescribing of drugs, in the end, it is up to each person to determine whether or not to fill such a prescription for trouble.

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.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

SUMMER CARE MADE SIMPLE Summer need not be a distress, or a season of unease — it can be a ‘breeze,’ provided one incorporates the following tips and makes them a regular habit.

he grinding heat of summer not only affects our body, but also skin. Add to it dehydration and you have electrolyte imbalance, due to excessive sweating — which also ‘tells’ on your skin. The best way to avoid dehydration is by drinking plenty of water, watermelon juice [without sugar] and tender coconut water. Avoid fried food. Eating excessive fat or fried food leads to lethargy, as it slows down the digestion process. It also affects the skin and makes it look unhealthy Reduce your intake of coffee and tea. Consuming too much coffee and tea causes increased urination; this leads to water loss and dryness of skin Avoid smoking and alcohol. Alcohol and smoking, including carbonated or fizzy drinks, desiccate or parch your skin Don’t wear tight-fitting clothes. Tight, skin-fit [especially synthetic] clothes hamper circulation, increase sweating and cause discomfort. Wear loosefitting and light-coloured cotton clothes to stay cool all day Maintain good hygiene. Bathe twice daily. Dust a mild, prickly heat talc after bathing

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Avoid sun exposure. Avoid the sun between 10:00am and 4:00pm as UV rays are at their peak. Use a sunscreen lotion, such as natural sunscreen cream, with SPF of 15-30 on exposed skin, half-an-hour before you step out; reapply every 4-6 hours. HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY Excessive sweating often leads to prickly heat, marked by tiny blisters — more so, in the folds of skin and in areas of tight clothing. The homeopathic remedy, Natrum Sulphuricum 6X, 2-4 pellets, twice daily, helps relieve prickly heat rash. Come summer, fungal infections are commonplace. • Chrysarobic Acid 6C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, can combat fungal infections effectively. • Urtica Urens is soothingly beneficial for summer skin rash that itches and burns • Echinacea is handy for heat boils • Cantharis is ‘comforting’ for sunburn. Speak to a professional homeopathic doctor at the clinic for the appropriate remedy and dosage, based on your individuality, or constitution, and also skin type.

HAIR CARE Think of sweating without even doing the small stuff. This is summer for you. The sweltering heat of summer sure drives many of us to exhaustion. It is also the cause of various health issues and concerns — which draws everyone’s attention. What draws just as much attention as your skin is the deleterious effects summer has on your hair. The most obvious aspect of our body that is exposed to the hot summer sun’s powerful rays is our hair. Blame it on one’s occupation, or frenzied lifestyle, or think of what you may, the reality is the scorching heat of the sun often upsets the ‘applecart’ of our hair’s cuticle. The result is dry, drab, split, brittle or frizzy hair and also ends. FACT-FILE The sun cannot actually burn our hair, although it can certainly affect our hair’s natural protective layer. Studies suggest that 3-4 days of protracted exposure to the sun would be enough to affect the scale-like cells covering the hair shaft to peel off. This is what that makes our hair dry, dull, or brittle, and also fragile. High levels of humidity, the bugbear of summer, also damage hair — humidity causes the hair strands to stretch, while making them brittle too. The best thing one can do is keep the hair healthy by washing them regularly and drying them gently — this can reduce the detrimental effects of summer’s humid incursions on hair. Travelling in a bus or car, or train, with the windows rolled down, to savour the outside air in summer, as most of us do, may not be as good as you’d have thought. The stiff, warm breeze may leave you with dry and tangled hair, leading to splitting of hair ends. The best thing one can do is drink adequate water — at least one-and-a-half to two litre — everyday. This will help to flush out toxins.

Diet is just as important — incorporate a good intake of soya and sprouts into your eating regimen. This is wholesome nourishment for your body and also the ‘soul’ of your hair. Dandruff and excess oil on the scalp in summer are notable concerns. A daily hair wash with a mild, natural anti-dandruff shampoo, and a dab of olive oil, would be most helpful to maintain healthy, natural hair. SELF-HELP Summer need not be a hairy distress, or a season of unease — it can be a ‘breeze,’ provided one incorporates the following tips and makes them a regular habit. Shampoo. The heat of summer tends to wear out your hair’s protective oils. Use a mild, natural shampoo with minimal lather — this helps to minimise drying of hair. Combat loss of moisture on your scalp, a common dilemma during summer, with a mild moisturiser. Apply a natural conditioner after every hair wash, or whenever you wet your hair. Protect. The sizzling wind that blows hot can wobble your hair. Wear a hat. Also, try and give your hair a break from the dryer during the summer months. If at all you would want to use the hair dryer, switch on a cold blow. Make sure to also keep the dryer at least six inches away from hair. Swimming. Chlorine is damaging to hair. Wear a rubber cap, when you are in the pool. Wash your hair with tap water, soon after swimming. This will help ‘purge’ chlorine from your hair. Forget about chemical treatment, such as colouring, perming, straightening, ironing, crimping etc. Avoid the use of hair-colouring chemicals, such as ammonia and hydrogen peroxide too. They tend to penetrate and damage hair. If you must colour your hair, for whatever reason, opt for a natural ammonia-free hair colour — this is safe and also gentle on your hair.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

GOOD FOOD

By TARLA DALAL

SOUP BOOST FOR YOUR BRAIN Almond soup. Remember your childhood days when grandmother use to compel us to eat 2-3 almonds every day? Almonds are ‘brain-friendly’ foods; they help to enhance its function. Here’s a rich and tasty soup that provides a healthy, tasty ‘boost up’ for your brain.

Soaking Time: 10 minutes Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Makes 4 servings INGREDIENTS • 15-20 almonds [badam] • 4 cups white stock • 2 tsp butter • 1 tbsp plain flour [maida] • 3/4 cup hot milk • 3-4 drops almond essence • 2 tbsp fresh cream • Salt to taste METHOD • Soak the almonds in hot water for 10 minutes, drain and remove the skin • Keep 2-3 almonds aside and blend the remaining in a mixer till smooth using a little stock • Cut the remaining almonds into slivers and bake them in an oven until crisp. Keep aside

• Add the prepared almond paste to the white stock and mix well. Keep aside • Heat the butter in a deep non-stick pan, add the flour and sauté over a slow flame for 5 minutes, while stirring continuously, taking care the flour does not discolour • Add the almond paste and remaining white stock, mix well and bring to boil, while stirring continuously • Add the milk, almond essence, salt and pepper; mix well and simmer for 5 minutes • Add the cream and mix well. Serve garnished with almond slivers immediately. HANDY TIP Combine 2 cups of chopped mixed vegetables [potatoes, onions, pumpkin and cabbage] with 5 cups of water and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles, blend till smooth and strain. You will get 4 cups of white stock; use as required. NUTRIENT VALUES PER SANDWICH Energy Protein Carbohydrates Fat Calcium 113 calories 3.5gm 6.4gm 7.1gm 110.9mg [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 | APRIL 2015

GOOD FOR YOU

DIET IS BEST FOR ASTHMA Bad nutrition is rarely mentioned as a contributing factor for asthma. This is one reason why asthma, despite our medical advance, is poorly understood.

share this knowledge with my patients. hen was the last time you heard I’m fascinated by the fact how specific the words nutrition and asthma nutrients have the capacity to act like in the same sentence? Probably medicines. In many ways, they are natural never. Many physicians still think diet pharmaceuticals. What’s more, recent has no affect on asthma. Nothing could By Dr RICHARD scientific advances have unlocked the be further from the truth. A study from FIRSHEIN mysteries of healing foods and nutrients, Saudi Arabia made headlines because giving us the tools to make full use of researchers discovered that junk foodnature’s medicine chest. Researchers now study eating city kids had a higher risk of asthma and isolate the chemical composition of fruits, than children from rural areas, where the diet berries, vegetables, herbs, fish, and poultr y. still consists of rice, lamb, and fresh produce. Those children who had the lowest intakes of THE POWER OF GOOD NUTRITION vegetables, milk, vitamin E and certain minerals, It is repor ted that eating vitamin-rich fruits like the study found, were at significantly greater oranges “may reduce wheezing symptoms in risk of asthma, even after adjusting for other childhood, especially among already susceptible factors. “This study suggests that dietar y factors individuals.” A recent study found that the risk during childhood are an important influence in of bronchial irritation was increased seven-fold determining the expression of wheezy illness,” among those with the lowest intake of vitamin the authors concluded. While more research is C in their diets. People in the study who ate the needed, there are now an increasing number least saturated fats, on the other hand, had a of physicians who believe nutrition can have a much lower chance of suf fering from asthma. significant impact on the health and longevity of There is conflicting data on other foods, such as asthmatics. fish oil, but from my experience it is clear that Yet bad nutrition is rarely mentioned as a patients who eat well get better. contributing factor for asthma. One reason The sorr y truth is that most children eat too may be that asthma is poorly understood. It’s much junk-food. According to a study from Texas, reasonably easy to grasp the idea that calcium US, children between four and twelve spend $4 builds bones, that fat clogs ar teries, and that billion on junk food — more than the $2 billion cer tain vitamins — including E and C — may they spend on toys and games. In fact, for many prevent cancer. Unlike a clogged ar ter y, however, kids, the only source of vitamins is breakfast asthma is not a simple mechanical problem. The cereals that have been for tified with vitamins. link between diet and asthma is now becoming Junk-food is especially bad for asthmatic clearer as more and research comes to light. children. You probably already know that junk and many processed foods contain refined sugar and PERSONAL EXPERIENCE fats such as trans-saturated fats and saturated Af ter my nearly fatal asthma attack, I eliminated fats. Junk-food, as you know, can make your child ever y single food I thought was harming me. I listless or hyperactive and contribute to a host knew my body needed as much help as possible, of other health problems. But, evidence suggests and I tried to flood my system with healthy that the fats listed above may promote the nutrients. I took extreme care to avoid food I was formation of harmful prostaglandins, which cause allergic to. I stopped eating processed and junk inflammation. Junk-food can also lead to excess foods. I ate mostly fish, fresh produce, whole weight, which has been found to contribute to grains, and free-range chicken. Now, years later, I asthma. One study found that weight loss in can look back at my asthmatic crisis and see that obese patients reduced air way obstruction in it was a blessing in disguise, one that forced me those with asthma. to see the impor tance of nutrition. I’ve spent much of my professional life IT IS NOT PROGRAMMED studying nutritional medicine so that I could Kids are not programmed to eat Froot Loops learn about the power of dif ferent foods and

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instead of apples. While most kids appreciate a treat now and then, it’s not something they inherently crave or demand constantly. I’ve always been surprised to see how easily the children I work with adapt to a healthy diet. If children are taught early on that carrots, grapes, raisins, or nuts [if they’re not allergic] are treats, you’ll go a long way towards getting them into the habit of good nutrition. Remember that you’re in control here. If you don’t buy Oreos ® , there are no Oreos to eat. Because you determine what goes in the refrigerator, you can control their diets for at least the first five or six years of their life. Sure, it’s hard to avoid junk-food at par ties and on holidays, but if the focus at home is on good-tasting nutritious food, junk-food will be reduced to an occasional thing. One way to make it easier is to get across the idea that this is a par tnership between you and your child, that you are both working toward same goal, and that you are doing this together for ever yone’s benefit. Explain to your child why cer tain foods can make asthma [and, related allergies] better or worse. Talk to your kids about what they should eat: whole grains, not white bread or white-flour cakes. Fresh and steamed vegetables. Fresh fruit, not canned fruit and juices, which contain sugar and other additives. Poultr y, fish, lean beef hamburgers, and healthy vegetable oils.

Not only can these foods improve your child’s overall health, but compounds within many foods can help cut down on free radicals, or power ful molecules that can damage your child’s lungs and immune system There is also a mounting body of evidence that indicates how specific substances in foods can greatly improve an asthmatic’s health. TEACH ‘EM YOUNG Work with your child to eliminate foods that are potentially the most problematic, including cookies and candies. Explain how some foods make most people feel yucky, tired, hyper, or congested. Ask your child if he or she can think of any food that makes him or her feel like this. Explain why foods that are fatty, greasy, and sugar y are not good for them. Fatty fried foods, for instance, are toxic for ever yone because they clog our ar teries and promote free-radical damage. Describe how fatty food contributes to excess weight and lowers our energy level. Tell your child that these foods are especially bad for him or her because they may promote inflammator y reactions in the lungs. It’s pretty easy for kids to understand that French fries are drenched in bad oils and have extremely little nutritional benefit at all. You don’t have to hit kids over the head with the idea that eating better equals feeling better.

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 | APRIL 2015

WHOLE & SOUL

THE POWER OF ENQUIRY There is no point asking irrelevant questions. It is only when a human being reaches the elevated platform of making serious inquiry on ‘who one is’ that life will have real spiritual value.

• What is my relationship with god within this veryone spends their lives within a series universe? of questions and answers. When a bird awakes in the morning, it begins asking When a human being comes to the elevated questions and searching for answers. When platform of making serious enquiry on such it comes back to the nest at night, it is still subjects, human life will have real spiritual asking questions and trying to find answers. value. In our society, everyone, businessmen, If we really want to digest food, we have to politicians, lawyers, artists, farmers etc., are have hunger. If we have no hunger, we have By all seeking answers to their questions. weak digestion. Hunger is an important part of RADHANATH Life is a series of questions and answers. life because it gives power to digest and that SWAMI principle holds true for spiritual knowledge as • How to solve our problems? well. When we feel the urgency and the hunger to solve • How to find happiness? the real problems of life and we inquire from people • How to avoid suffering? who act truly and who reveal the word of god in an • How to make friends? unadulterated way, our human life really begins. • How to gain power and prestige? The scriptures tell us that there is a final exam. That Of course, in today’s age most questions and answers final exam is called death. It’s not a horrible thing unless are mostly about how to make money. All the television we fail it. Death is neither good nor bad. If we fail the shows, newspapers, magazines, are about these exam of death it’s a miserable situation. But if we pass questions and answers. that exam, it’s the most glorious opportunity in all of The Vedic scriptures explain that, now you are a human creation. We can pass this examination by using our life being, inquire about who you are. The questions about to seek answers to questions of the purpose of life and eating, sleeping, mating and defending and all of their following those answers which lead us to the right path various sub-divisions exhibit the basic trend of human and destination of our life. intelligence in today’s world, but they are unimportant Two things to always remember are: questions. • Who am I? • Death can come at any moment, whether one is an • Why am I suffering? insignificant ant crawling on the floor, or the future Head of • Where am I coming from? State or top official. • Where am I going? • Since death can come at any moment, the other thing we • Who is god? should remember is the Lord’s Holy Name, because His • What is the nature of this universe? mercy is fully revealed through His name — eternally. 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 | APRIL 2015

POISE & BALANCE

OF MUDRAS & PUNCH PRANAS The mudra is the exact scientific yogic function by which one can develop, or even change one’s internal and external disposition — from anger and emotional disturbance to spiritual concentration and physical wellness.

• Keep the other two fingers straight. udras manipulate the flow of prana [vital Benefits. This mudra supports the removal of energy] and redirect it back into the waste materials and toxins from the body, as body. The practice of mudras induces well as eliminate urinary problems. The apan states of pratyahara [sensory withdrawal] and By PREETI mudra also stimulates the earth and water dharana [concentration], Patanjali’s 5th and 6th MANDAWEWALA element, associated with the energy of the limbs of yoga, and the five types of vayu [wind], liver, kidney and gallbladder. circulate through the nerves of the human body and can be controlled with mudras. 2. Saman vayu mudra • Apan vayu stimulates mooladhara and swadhisthana How to do chakra Join the tips of all the fingers. • Saman vayu stimulates manipura chakra Benefits. This mudra controls the digestive system. • Prana vayu stimulates anahata chakra The fingers representing the five elements are brought • Udan vayu stimulates vishuddhi chakra together. This brings all the elements into balance. • Vyan vayu stimulates agya chakra. 1. Apana vayu mudra How to do • Join the tip of thumb with the tip of ring and middle finger.

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3. Prana vayu mudra How to do • Join the tip of thumb, ring and little finger. • Keep the remaining two fingers straight.

POISE & BALANCE

5.Vyana vayu mudra How to do • Join the tips of index and middle finger with the tip of thumb. • The ring finger and little finger should remain straight. Benefits. The current of air in the veins, vyana vayu, is said to be the circulator of blood in the body. Performing vyana mudra 2-3 times a day helps in regulating blood pressure. It also balances the energy in our body.

• Mudras can bring miraculous mental, spiritual and physical changes and improvements in our body. They help in quickly balancing the elements of the body. • Mudras effect changes in veins, tendons, glands and sense organs. • Mudras need no prior preparation. They can be done [but, with exceptions] at any time, anywhere and under virtually any circumstances. • They are like literal remote control switches bringing quick and effective changes. • They help bring about permanent changes. • The regular practice of mudras can stop or slow down the destructive changes in the human body. It can help develop a virtuous, socially amiable, non-violent, pious and courteous disposition. • Some of the mudras can balance the elements of the body within 45 minutes; some act within a few seconds on the human body. • Mudras awaken the cosmic energy and help unite the atma [soul] with the Paramatama [cosmic soul].

HANDY TIPS • Mudra is the exact scientific yogic function by which one can develop, or even change one’s internal and external dispositions, viz., mental [anger, emotional disturbance, intelligence etc.], spiritual [concentration, meditation], physical disease, or illness.

FACT-FILE • Mudras can be practiced at all times, while sitting, lying, standing, walking or even talking. • For good results, they should be practiced for 24 minutes continuously. Or, when time is a constraint, for 4-5 minutes at one time.

Benefits. As it is the mudra of life, it improves the power of life. Weak people become strong. It reduces the ‘clamps’ in blood vessels. If we practice it regularly, we will become active. 4. Udana vayu mudra How to do • Join the tips of index, middle and ring finger with the tip of thumb. • Keep the little finger straight. Benefits. This mudra develops the flow of energy in all parts of the body.

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 | APRIL 2015

CORPORATE WELLNESS

GLOBAL MATRIX Developments in culture and technology must go hand-in-hand for advancing our cross-culture synthesis and collaboration.

organisational and technical richness and hat’s one of the most ideal, resplendent complexity, a constant flow of wisdom.” visions of global economy today? The The authors also acknowledge with potent globalisation of economic activity, the insight the domain of a truly global ‘cosmopolis’ reshaping of economic life from the personal to in cyberspace. As information technologies every level, not to speak of the breaking down of become the circulatory and nervous systems old barriers and boundaries, coupled with several of our emerging new cyberorganisations, they exciting possibilities of interaction or co-operation, By BADRINATH add, new information tools, by continuing a and growth. A spectacular scenario, right? Not DURVASULA long tradition, will become ever more intimate quite, because the reality of it all is not as pretty as — to complement individuals and teams. They it seems on the surface. elaborate, “We have expanded the race, we interact with Agreed, that, we’ve soared around the globe and into computers in a digital sensorium, and [we] are beginning cyberspace; but, the fact of the matter is that we are to explore more direct links by bypassing the senses.” struggling to cope with the human dimension of distance “Cyberspace,” they assert, “[is] largely inhabited by — the distance of cultural diversity. More so, in the rapidly extrahuman intelligences. [Hence] in face, the bulk of advancing stream of communication. No wonder, then, ‘conversations’ in cyberspace may be machine-to-machine that, each day millions of managers and line employees and machine-to-human rather than human-to-human…” worldwide have difficulty with the awkward, frustrating, “Electronic media,” the authors also observe, “have confounding, simple, yet complex, questions of the global already suggested that face-to-face encounter may not workplace. be the ultimate form of human communication for every This irony struck me when I was reading a relatively old situation, though most people are not willing to listen to book by Mary O’Hara-Devereaux and Robert Johansen, this lesson. Cyberspace will introduce us to a new range of Globalwork. To paraphrase them, “We make a classic options, at least some of which may be superior to facemistake if we expect technology to [confront these queries to-face, at least for certain tasks…” Yet, they caution, with with confidence] do it for us. Technology can help put us graceful intent, “Globalwork on the cyberspace frontier in contact with one another — over oceans and cultures — will take years to mature, but it is an exciting territory with but, it cannot make us understand one another. For that, many opportunities — as well as serious pitfalls. The crosswe must still depend on the oldest system of all: human cultural work of today will provide a ground for creating imagination, tolerance, determination, and the will to learn new ‘third ways’ of globalwork in cyberspace.” A point continuously.” proved. Globalwork is a theoretical overview and a practical Globalwork isn’t a ‘how-to’ guide, nor is it a guidepost. framework for bringing the chasm represented by cultures, It is devoid of street maps. It is broad-based on general, distance and time, based on the authors’ exploratory navigational directions to the global workplace for all levels research on new ways of working in the global workplace. of workers — from ‘gypsies’ to those who operate from The advantage? The duo, both management consultants home. All the same, it promotes an indispensable principle and emerging technologies researchers, focuses primarily that developments in culture and technology must go on all managers and teams, whatever the type of business, hand-in-hand for advancing cross-culture synthesis and alliances, and governmental and/or even non-profit collaboration. That’s essential stuff, which is not only enterprises. Also, in anybody’s estimate, or opinion, their informative and practical, but also entertaining. perceptive view is of immense use. Globalwork provides not only sophisticated strategies, It’s also not without reason that the authors emphasise but also practical rules of the thumb for a world where that the notion of an ‘electronic democracy,’ through agreements between nations are rapidly reshaping electronic town halls is being played out with increasing the global business environment and new, wondrous frequency in the political arena. They inform, with logic information technologies are forcing organisations to and resolution, the purpose of a community on a global “redefine where, when and how work is accomplished.” scale. “A cross-cultural, cross-functional, globally dispersed In its essence, the book is a practical solution-armload team linked by a continuity machine, driven by a common vis-à-vis the most pressing challenges faced daily by enterprise vision, sharing in the common values of the today’s business community and the general public. emerging global culture, and producing out of their cultural, Badrinath Durvasula is Vice-President and Head, Legal and Strategy, Larsen & Toubro Ltd, Mumbai. A much-sought after speaker and motivational ’guru,’ Durvasula holds masters’ degrees in nuclear physics, law and management.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

LIFE COACH

5 STEPS TO A WHOLE NEW YOU The idea of developing a new behaviour is to identify exactly what the new behaviour you want to develop is. In other words, you need to be clear about what exactly you will be doing if you were demonstrating the new behaviour.

ehaviour is simply anything you do. The second step is to close your eyes If you do something physically, like and see yourself doing all the things sitting, standing, running, turning that you need to do to demonstrating your head, etc., that’s behaviour. And, if you the new behaviour. While the first step do something in your mind, like talking to was happening at a logical level, this step By VINESH yourself, thinking of good thoughts, making is happening at the emotional and feeling SUKUMARAN a mental plan, replaying an incident etc., level. It, therefore, has to be done in a calm that’s behaviour too. and relaxed manner, while ensuring that Though it might not be obvious to many of us, you experience the feelings and emotions behind all the truth is that human beings spend most of their the things that you need to do. So, close your eyes, lives either developing new behaviours, keeping relax your body and mind and see yourself going existing behaviours, or getting rid of old behaviours. through every single detail of the new behaviour. If Interestingly enough, getting rid of an old behaviour, you are seeing yourself walking on the street, admire keeping an existing behaviour and developing a the flowers on the trees, feel the pleasant air that new behaviour, are all behaviours in themselves hits you, and experience the entire walk in as much — they are also the ones that could be developed. detail as possible. Do likewise for the swimming So, the development of new behaviours becomes a experience, if it is the new behaviour you want to significant part of living the life you want. The more develop. easily you are able to develop the kinds of behaviours Step three is the practice. You need to practice that you want, the more likely it is for living your the new behaviour over and over again to get ideal life. Successful individuals from various it into your system. Going for a walk for two fields, like doctors, musicians, mathematicians, days, or being able to float on water, does not make businessmen, martial artists and sportspeople know it a new behaviour. It only means that you are going the secret to developing new behaviours extremely in the right direction; yet, it’s no time to celebrate. well. The secret is rather elementary; it has five Repeating a behaviour consciously, and deliberately, simple steps. over and over again, takes you to step four. The first step to developing a new behaviour is Step four is where positive feelings about the to identify exactly what the new behaviour you new behaviour start to surface and eventually want to develop is. In other words, you need to flood your mind. You begin to feel good about be clear about exactly what you will be doing if you your morning walks. You feel like walking every were demonstrating the new behaviour. For example, morning and enjoy doing it, and it’s not a chore if the new behaviour you want to develop is to learn anymore. You feel confident about not just floating how to swim, nail down everything that you need to in water but moving swiftly from one end of the pool be doing to achieve that. Like going to a swimming to the other. You are no more threatened by the deep pool, getting into the water, moving your hand and end. legs according to the style you are swimming in. The last and final step is step five. Here, your Likewise, if the new behaviour you want to develop emotional comfort with the new behaviour is to start walking regularly, be crystal clear about has become so firm as a result of repeated everything that you need to be doing to achieve that. practice that the behaviour becomes automatic. This Like waking up early in the morning, getting ready realistically is celebration time, yet most people who and putting on your walking gear, actually stepping have made this journey successfully realise that out of the house and beginning to walk, the exact reaching step five in itself is celebration time and path that you will take, what time you will finish and that it hardly calls for any external reward system to get back home. sustain it.

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 | APRIL 2015

MIXED BAG

OF POPEYE’S SPINACH ‘FIX’ & MORE Spinach has got more to do than its legendary, powerful ‘connect’ with Popeye, the sailor man.

screamed, “Popeye, Popeye, help me.” y grandmother always told me to Sadly, the myth of spinach being an make sure I wash my spinach seven all-in-one strength-giving food doesn’t times in clear, running water before survive close scrutiny today. Apparently, cooking it. Now, I don’t know whether this when scientists first analysed spinach, was simply a kitchen-tip or a ritual handed they made a mathematical mistake down from her cook, or some dark culinary of overestimating its iron content. An secret she inherited from her mother innocent slip of a decimal point meant they because it does have a basis in reality. By RUBY thought spinach had ten times more iron There is nothing worse than a teenyLILAOWALA than it actually does. weeny bit of girt spoiling your enjoyment But, wait. Before you complain that you of a hot, steaming, forkful of spinach. So, I have been conned all these years, don’t forget that follow my grandmother’s advice to this day. spinach, like any leafy vegetable, is still a good Spinach is a pleasure to cook and delight to source of nutrition. The iron and calcium content is eat. It is also the most edible and tasty cure for bound into the plant by oxalic acid [this acid gives constipation; in fact, in a certain dialect of an spinach its bitter taste], so it’s never fully released African language, it is called ’the broom of the to the body. Spinach also contains carotenoids, stomach.’ However, what always astonishes me similar to vitamin A and which scientists now is that however much of the stuff you bring home believe may help guard against diseases of the eye, from the market, filling the kitchen-table as you particularly cataracts. cut it, while watching that none of it spills into In cuisine, its popularity is as strong as ever, the kitchen-basin as you wash it. The moment you particularly in the East. So, how do you shop for take the lid of the pan, it has miraculously shrunk. this versatile green-veggie? Well, when buying Did I say shrunk? Why? Most of it has almost spinach, look for small leaves with nice, vibrant disappeared. green colour. If the leaves squeak when rubbed Spinach forms the cornerstone of cuisine in together, that’s a good sign of freshness. Avoid the Balkans, Greece, Turkey and the Arab world, leaves which are limp and dull-looking. Once the Indian sub-continent and South-East Asia. you’ve brought spinach home, remove any The broad popularity of spinach in such a diverse damaged or discoloured leaves and drop the collection of culinary delights, diets and cultures bunch into fresh, cold water. This will not only owes more than a bit to the entrepreneurial spirit liven up the leaves, but also remove dirt and girt, of the Persians in the 14th and the 15th centuries. this low-growing plant may have picked-up. As my The iron-loaded leafy veggie is the staple food grandmother used to say, wash it repeatedly and in the hills of what is now Iran; it was one of the thoroughly. several ingredients spread across the world by Now, shake the spinach dry, remove as much trading and migratory instincts of its people. water as possible and then pile it into a saucepan, From succulent pies, quiches and tarts of the along with a generous knob of butter. Clamp on Greek islands, to aromatic spiced dishes of palaka tight-fitting lid before steaming it, shaking the paneer and saag-aloo in India and delicate stir-fries pan occasionally until the spinach has wilted and of Thailand, its versatility belies its seemingly become tender. This should take just about five simple exterior. In Europe, its use was maintained minutes, so be careful not to overcook which may long after the departure of the Moors from the result in slimy leaves that no one will want to eat, mainland by monks who grew it in monastery except perhaps, Popeye, the sailor. gardens and during World War II wine fortified with Oh, yes — additional ingredients could hold spinach was given to French soldiers to reduce the the key to flavours from Madrid to Mumbai. Your effects of haemorrhage. options are: garlic, pasta, cheese, soy sauce, For children, especially in the West, spinach is mushrooms, nutmeg etc. Fresh and delicious, forever associated with Popeye, the sailor, the spinach is a storehouse of vitamins and 1930s cartoon character who popped entire tins minerals; so, remember grandma’s advice and of spinach into his mouth to give him strength eat your spinach. each time his girlfriend, Olive, got into trouble and Ruby Lilaowala , a former special correspondent for Gulf Times, is a writer, columnist, life-coach and counsellor. She lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

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FITNESS QUOTIENT

FLEX & STRETCH FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH

Flexibility is our ability to flex, extend or move our joints. It denotes our joints’ extended range of motion without loss of strength.

lexibility is a commonly used expression. In reality, it is almost a neglected part of our life. More so, because, you would also have sometimes felt that regaining flexibility was difficult. Not really. All of us tend to get stiffer with age. The reason being: our muscles and tendons have a tendency to get short with lack of use. This is commonly known by another common expression — stiffness. You can stop the loss. And, here’s how you can pump the magic back into flexibility. Flexibility can be increased to a great extent as in athletes. You need to be careful though, because stretching can, sometimes, lead to muscle tear and pull. All you need to do is — be more active in your day-today life. Sounds difficult? In which case, you may use some of the techniques described in this article. However, before you start, you need to bear in mind that you need to get your flexibility parameters back on track — slowly. It just cannot be achieved quickly. Flexibility is an important aspect of our life. We need to always keep it at its optimal level. It’s always better to increase its capabilities. One good way of increasing your flexibility is stretching. Remember — the stretching exercises you have seen sportspersons do before every event? But, here is something you should remember always. Warm-up and stretching are two different things. They are not the same, as may be the popular opinion. You need to warm-up before stretching. If you suddenly stretch a cold muscle, you may injure yourself, or tear a muscle, or ligament. The best thing to do is — perform 5-10 minutes of light cardiovascular exercise to warm-up your muscles. Example: light walking and arm-pumping. This will help your body get prepared for the workout. Besides, a warm-up helps improve your body’s range of motions and prevent soreness. It also helps you to loosen your muscles. In addition, it helps to raise

your body temperature and heart rate. This is ideal preparation for the body to do exercise. It’s also very important for you to stretch slowly and correctly. Incorrect technique may cause harm to your body and the muscles. STEPS TO EFFECTIVE STRETCHING • The most effective and safest stretches are gentle and static; they are best performed without any straining or bouncing forcefully • Always get into a position where you can stretch without getting pain • The best thing to do is to slowly move into your extreme range of motion • On reaching the level and desired tension, ‘hold’ for a short period of time • Avoid hard, jumpy, or quick, movements. This can lead to injuries • Relax, and repeat the stretch if you can. It is not that you should be hard on yourself. A long routine of stretching exercises on a daily basis is also not a prerequisite. It is best for you to go on a regular moderate stretching programme — every other day. This works in two ways. One, you will be able to do your stretching exercises regularly without devoting too much of time. Two, you will be also regular with it. Besides, for those who are into weight-training, a regular after-exercise stretching programme is of great help. It reduces the soreness, or sore feeling, from your weighty workout. Most important. Stretching helps improve your flexibility. It helps you acquire better control of your body and also muscles. It also helps prevent premature aging, or aging itself. One great example of stretching exercise is yoga. Yoga is as much art and science as exercise — it is also an all-encompassing form of physical and mental health and fitness. Pursue it, and relish its healthy benefits all through life. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

SELF-HELP

WHEN YOU ARE ‘HOME ALONE...’ It does not matter whether you are 60, or 75. Falling or a risk of some injury is imminent, especially when you are alone at home.

t does not matter whether you are 60, or 75. Falling or a risk of some injury is imminent, especially when you are alone at home. The question uppermost in one’s mind is — what if you are not able to reach the telephone, or mobile phone, during a fall, or in such an eventuality? This is nothing short of a fear syndrome which is intense in senior citizens. Negative as the thought is, it can cause a decline in health, and bring about a state of self-isolation. The best thing you can do is — try to be practical. Keep your apartment or home secure. Safety does not cost you much — simple, economical measures like lock, or latch, and how you can prevent spills and falls are handy. You would also need to think in terms of how to plan an escape route in the event of fire within your home, or in the housing complex. You should have the emergency number of a nearby hospital, your doctor, ambulance, service and fire station ‘saved’ in your telephone, or cell phone — you can summon assistance quickly. You need to also know how to prevent kitchen fire from spreading, and know how to quell fire with an extinguisher. If you have a close circuit camera and hi-tech safety system in place, excellent — if not, never ever open the door to strangers. Another inexpensive idea is a ‘panic button’ which can alert your neighbour and the complex where you reside, in case of an emergency. If you are, for any reason not comfortable, you could ascertain the visitor’s identity, and, at the most, communicate with the safety door, or grill, closed. These concerns apply to day-to-day apprehensions outdoors too. Also, give good thought to, but don’t be obsessed with characters you think are ‘following’ you. They may be inconspicuous at times — watching you at malls, grocery stores and so on. If you sense something is not right, seek the help of the local law enforcement agency, or keep the local police in the loop. Most important: have your home covered by insurance against theft, and other probable mishaps. … AND, BEFORE A VACATION This, again, is important for senior citizens. Well, there is no reason why senior citizens who have recovered from a major illness cannot have a welcome break, or a nice holiday. All one needs to do is a bit of planning — to make the vacation a refreshing, rejuvenating experience. There is nothing like a holiday, or vacation, to beat stress and/or a long ‘bored-to-the-bone’ feeling. Think

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

of a majestic get-away — or, just solitude. Or, a time to read a good book, listen to your favourite haunting melodies, or follow a much-loved hobby. You could think of any kind of vacation, provided it brings you rest and relaxation, novel experiences and energy. It should not be a source of stress and tension. This is one important factor that people with heart conditions, and diabetes, should consider. These people could certainly have fun, but they need to plan their vacation. Also, they should avoid climes with elevated temperatures and too much direct sunlight. The two make a dangerous combination on an aging skin. If you have had a heart attack or bypass surgery, you need a minimum of 6-8 weeks, before you plan a vacation. Also, you need your doctor’s okay on your condition. Your chances are brighter for a holiday, if you have gone through a cardiac rehabilitation programme, and are doing physical exercises. However, seek your doctor’s advice on what you can do, or not do, during your vacation, especially if you fancy going on a hike, or climbing a hill. You need to build patience. Train or flight delays, car breakdowns, bad weather etc., are stressful, so also cancellations, at the last minute. As for those with health affections, more so heart problems, they should make it certain that there are competent medical personnel and facilities available at the destination. Carry your prescription and important health/medical reports with you — if your doctor knows someone in the same speciality in the town, or resort, so much the better. Have a note from your doctor in place. Also, include your insurance information and carry your pacemaker [if you have one implanted] emergency card that mentions the type of equipment and other details. You have to build strength and also save your energy for having an enjoyable vacation. You should instruct the travel agent to arrange for a wheelchair, if critical, including special meals that take care of your dietary limitations. Also, never ever discard heart-healthy eating habits — vacation is no excuse to invite risks. Never forget to carry and take your medications at the appropriate time daily. Carry less baggage, the minimum you can manage with. Ask for a cart/trolley, if you need one — and, avoid lifting your baggage without assistance. Most importantly, use your common sense — and, make the best out of your vacation. Allow it to be a real period of rest and a refreshing experience — not a stressful consequence.

HOME[O]PATHY

HERBAL ‘PLUMBERS’ FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH In the process of our day-to-day life we tend to accumulate a good deal of toxins and other wastes, including pollutants, in our body. This, in the long run, does our body no good — they only cause health problems including clogging in the arteries. Here’s help from your kitchen — to cleanse your body of toxins and promote a healthier you.

he process of cleansing we are talking about is called chelation. To chele — a Greek term — means ‘to claw.’ You could think of the chelation process as something we often do to clear our drainage system. When a drain is clogged, we add a chemical. The substance dissolves the blockage. Soon after, the resulting compound is also removed from the drain through the plumbing system. The chelation process works in the same manner in our body. But, don’t be alarmed — chelation is safe and its good effects are immense. To help you understand the technique better, let’s think of a common example. Our digestive system is an excellent example of the chelation process. Think of digestion and assimilation of food. This is something similar to the chelation process of amino acids, or proteins, and minerals — to which blood cells fasten to obtain iron. Iron is fundamental for the transportation of nutrients within the body. To use another illustration. Green vegetables contain iron. When we consume them, our digestive process releases the iron to which it is bound. Iron needs to be chelated, or combined, with amino acids and carried through the intestinal mucous membranes into the bloodstream. Needless to say, the whole chelation process is dependent on our nutritional intake, especially foods rich in vitamin C, for example — or, supplements — or, iron. During the process, vitamin C chelates with iron; it now boosts and quickens the absorption of iron. And, once iron enters the bloodstream, it is freed from the proteins to which it was chelated during the course of its journey. WHY CHELATION You know about the toxins that we ingest from the air and elsewhere. Ever thought of the tiny pieces of metal, the mainstay of dental treatment, for instance, which are actually toxic, albeit they are still used in practice? It is an established fact that they can cause heart disease and cancer. Imagine this. When a diseases-causing free radical wallops into one of these tiny pieces of toxic metal, it could cause a

deluge of free radicals. A dangerous outcome. We need to do something quickly. It is here that chelation comes in handy. Do you know there are a handful of easy-todo chelation programmes that one could do at home to catch the free radical phantom by its neck? Free radicals are a major cause of the disease process, including heart disorders, diabetes, and cancer. Here goes — • Sustain at least two bowel movements per day. If you can’t get it going, you may add psyllium, or isapgol [from the genus, plantago] to your diet plan. Take a tablespoon of isapgol in a glass of water, last thing before going to bed • You may also use chlorella to remove toxic metals from the connective tissues, likewise. Chlorella is an algae with protein and high levels of chlorophyll; it is one of the purest, most potent forms of food on earth. Only thing is — it may not be tolerated by some people. Speak to your natural therapist — to find out if it would suit you, or ask for other good options for chelation. OTHER OPTIONS You can use MSM [methylsulphonylmethane], a natural form of organic sulphur — an essential nutrient available in capsule/pill form — to remove the toxic effects of mercury. MSM is rich in sulphur — sulphur, as you know, is a good anti-mercury agent. Clove is another good chelating agent; try to eat 2-3 cloves every day. You may also introduce cilantro [a member of the carrot family, and also referred to as Chinese parsley and coriander] to your diet. Cilantro helps ‘muster’ mercury, and other toxins, and flushes them out of the body through excretion. Cilantro, or coriander, is available in most grocery stores. Also, you may take a multi-purpose vitamin supplement on a daily basis — to ‘effect’ the chelation process. However, make sure that it contains all the essential minerals.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

HEALTH HAPPENINGS

COFFEE REDUCES THE RISK OF MS A new study suggests yet another potential health benefit of coffee consumption: it could reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis [MS]. The risk of MS could be reduced by drinking at least four cups of coffee a day, according to new research. It is estimated that more than 2.3 million people worldwide have multiple sclerosis, a chronic disease of the central nervous system — the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease, whereby immune-system-induced inflammation damages the protective coating of nerve fibres, called myelin. Symptoms of MS vary but commonly include loss of balance and co-ordination, blurred vision, extreme fatigue, tremors and numbness. Past studies have suggested that coffee consumption may protect against other neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. In this latest study, research suggests the beverage could also protect against MS. To reach their findings, study author Dr Ellen Mowry, of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, US, and colleagues analysed data from two separate population-based case-control studies that looked at the link between coffee consumption and MS. The first study was a Swedish study involving 1,629 people with MS and 2,807 healthy controls, while the second study was a US study involving 1,159 people with MS and 1,172 healthy controls. Both studies recorded coffee consumption among people with MS at 1 and 5 years prior to onset of symptoms, and the Swedish study also recorded coffee consumption among these participants ten years before symptoms began. Coffee intake of those with MS was compared with the healthy controls at similar time points.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

The results of the Swedish study revealed that participants who did not drink coffee in the year prior to symptom onset were around 1.5 times more likely to develop MS, compared with those who consumed six or more cups of coffee each day. The researchers also identified a protective effect against MS among participants who consumed large amounts of coffee at 5 and 10 years prior to onset of symptoms. From the US study, the team also found that participants who did not drink coffee in the year prior to symptom onset were approximately 1.5 times more likely to develop MS, compared with those who consumed at least four cups of coffee a day. ADHD & EARLY DEATH Having a diagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD] increases the risk of death and reduces overall life-expectancy, according to a large study published in The Lancet. It finds that people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder have a more than doubled risk of premature death and that accidents are the most common cause. Other disorders such as substance use increased the risk of death, but ADHD on its own was an independent risk. The researchers, led by Søren Dalsgaard from Aarhus University, Denmark, found the relative risk of dying was much higher for women than for men with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Not receiving a diagnosis until adulthood was also associated with higher risk. The study was a massive cohort study with over 32 years of follow-up of almost 2 million people in the Danish national registers. The researchers identified 32,061 individuals, with 26 per cent being women, who had ADHD within the nationwide cohort of 1,922,248 people.

The authors calculate that ‘all-cause mortality rate’ [death from all causes] was: 5.85 for every 10,000 person-years in people with ADHD per 10,000 in people without the disorder [controls] This difference corresponds to a two-fold rise in the mortality rate ratio [MRR] in people with ADHD. For individuals diagnosed at age 18 years or older, the increased likelihood of early death was more than fourfold compared with those without ADHD at the same age. Children diagnosed before the age of 6 years, by contrast, were at around double the risk of death compared with their healthy counterparts. For people whose ADHD was diagnosed in adulthood, there was an MRR of 4.25, compared with 1.58 for those people diagnosed in childhood. The authors say this “suggests that ADHD persisting into adulthood often represents a more severe form of the disorder.” Women with ADHD had a higher mortality rate [3.01] than did men with the disorder [1.93]. The authors conclude: “The interactions with age at diagnosis, sex, and co-morbid conditions emphasise the importance of early identification of ADHD, especially in girls and women, and treatment of co-morbid oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and substance use disorder.” The authors say their study underlines the importance, particularly for women, of early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. They caution, however, that the risk of early death, being compared with that for healthy people, does not translate into a high number of people with ADHD dying early — the doubled relative risk of premature death may translate into a small absolute risk of early death. ANTIBODIES THAT FIGHT MARBURG IDENTIFIED Two new studies have demonstrated how human antibodies can neutralise the Marburg virus, a highly lethal virus related to Ebola. The deadly Marburg virus is just as likely as Ebola to migrate to a densely populated area, according to the study authors. Antibodies have been found to bind to the surface of the virus, which could lead to future antibody treatments and vaccines to target Marburg and other viruses in the family. Marburg virus is up to 90 per cent lethal. Just like the Ebola virus, it can cause haemorrhaging [bleeding] and organ failure. An outbreak of the virus in Angola in 2005 was responsible for the deaths of 329 people, and the worry is that an even bigger outbreak could occur in the future. “The good news is, humans do make antibodies when they are infected that can kill these viruses. This suggests that vaccines should work,” says Dr James Crowe, lead author of one of the two studies published in Cell. In Dr Crowe’s study, the antibodies that can neutralise Marburg virus were isolated and characterised following analysis of the blood of a woman diagnosed with the

disease. Following the identification of the antibodies, the team confirmed their ability to kill the virus in the level 4 biosafety facility at the University of Texas Medical Branch [UTMB], US. Co-author Dr Andrew Ward says that the research leaves him hopeful that a cross-reactive antibody treatment could be designed in the future to fight Marburg and related viruses, including the Sudan virus and Bundibugyo virus. “We need to be prepared for future outbreaks,” he states. In the second study, researchers investigated precisely how the antibodies bind to a vulnerable site on the Marburg virus. To begin with, a team from The Scripps Research Institute [TSRI] worked out how to grow crystals of the antibody that were attached to the virus. By exposing these crystals to X-ray diffraction, their shape was revealed in three dimensions. The discovery of this shape enabled the team to demonstrate how the antibodies attach to the virus, preventing it from binding to receptors and transmitting its genetic material into human cells. Due to the relationship between the Marburg and Ebola viruses, the researchers questioned whether the antibody would be able to neutralise Ebola in the same manner as this. In order to investigate this possibility, the team used a technique called small-angle X-ray scattering to examine the carbohydrate-rich coating on the surface proteins of both viruses. The imaging process revealed that these regions had different shapes that exposed different surfaces beneath. Only in Marburg virus is the body able to create an antibody of the correct shape to affect an exposed region. Despite this, senior author Prof Erica Ollmann Saphire believes that the potential is there to one day create treatment for both viruses. “These cross-reactive antibodies are a straightforward route to a therapeutic option,” she says. “You could use these antibodies directly against Marburg virus, or with a bit more engineering use them to also target Ebola virus.” THE DEBATE OVER GLUTEN-FREE DIET Gwyneth Paltrow, Ryan Gosling and Jenny McCarthy are just some of the celebrities who have adopted a gluten-free diet — not necessarily because they have gluten intolerance, but because they deem the diet to be healthier. As such, the diet seems to have become the latest trend. It is estimated that around 1.6 million people in the US alone follow a gluten-free diet without having been diagnosed with celiac disease — a severe gluten intolerance. But, does this diet really benefit our health? Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and triticale [a combination of wheat and rye]. It acts as ‘glue’ in foods such as cereal, bread and pasta, helping them hold their shape. Gluten can also be found in some cosmetic products, such as lip balm, and it is even present in that nasty tasting glue on the back of stamps and envelopes. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

contain the protein. But, grocery stores are now stocked with an array of gluten-free alternatives, albeit at a higher price than gluten-containing products. While the availability of gluten-free foods is great for people with gluten sensitivity, more and more of us without such an intolerance are turning to gluten-free products. Why? Many of us believe gluten is bad for us, even when there is little scientific evidence suggesting it is.

In some individuals, consuming gluten can cause illness. It is estimated that around 18 million people in America have some form of gluten intolerance, referred to as non-celiac gluten sensitivity [NCGS], causing symptoms such as bloating or gas, diarrhoea, fatigue, headache and itchy skin rash. In celiac disease, gluten triggers an immune response that attacks the lining of the small intestine. This means the body is unable to effectively absorb nutrients into the bloodstream, which can lead to anaemia, delayed growth and weight loss. Celiac disease can lead to other conditions, such as multiple sclerosis [MS], osteoporosis, infertility and neurological conditions, if left untreated, and the only effective treatment for celiac disease is to adopt a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. For celiacs, a gluten-free diet means avoiding all foods that contain the protein, even in the most smallest amounts. Breads, beer, candies, cereals, cakes and pies, French fries, pastas, processed meats and soups are among some of the foods that should be avoided, unless they are specifically labelled gluten-free. Oats can come into contact with wheat during production stages, so unless labelled gluten-free, they should also be avoided. There are many foods that are naturally gluten-free, including fruits and vegetables, fresh eggs, fresh meats, fish and poultry [not marinated, breaded or battercoated], unprocessed beans, seeds and nuts, and the majority of dairy products. Many grains and starches are allowed as part of a gluten-free diet, including buckwheat, corn and cornmeal, flax, quinoa, rice, soy, arrowroot and millet. Celiacs should be careful, however, that these grains have not been mixed or processed with grains, preservatives or additives that contain gluten. Following a gluten-free diet may have been challenging a decade ago, given that many of our staple foods

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

THE PROBIOTIC ‘HOPE PILL’ FOR DIABETES According to researchers from Cornell University in Ithaca, US, there is hope for diabetics — in the form of a probiotic pill. Using engineered human gut bacteria, the research team was able to re-programme the cells of diabetic rats to produce insulin. In a proof-of-principle study published in Diabetes, senior author John March and colleagues from Cornell revealed how they were able to reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic rats using a common bacteria found in the human gut. Diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas is either unable to produce enough of the hormone insulin, while the body’s cells do not effectively respond to the hormone, or both. As a result, blood glucose levels rise higher than normal — known as hyperglycaemia. This can cause a number of complications, including stroke, heart disease and nerve damage. But with the findings of their study, March and colleagues say they may be one step closer to a cure for the condition.

The researchers engineered a common strain of ‘friendly’ human gut bacteria called Lactobacillus to secrete glucagon-like peptide 1 [GLP-1], a hormone that releases insulin in response to food. Lactobacillus is a probiotic often used to prevent and treat diarrhoea, as well as irritable bowel syndrome [IBS], Crohn’s disease and certain skin disorders. [Culled & Collated from the ‘Net and media reports]

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HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

CELEB FITNESS

AMRITA RAO’S WELLNESS MANTRA

mrita Rao is a charmingly perceptive film actress and model. She has appeared in Bollywood movies as well as a few films, down South. Born and raised in Mumbai, Rao made her screen debut in Ab Ke Baras in 2002. She rose to eminence as the lead actress in Ishq Vishk and was nominated for the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award for her role in the film. One of her most critically-acclaimed roles was in Vivah, a blockbuster romance. Her wellness mantra in her own words, by courtesy of http://celebfitness.blogspot.in: I am a pure vegetarian. I begin my day with two glasses of lukewarm water. Along with breakfast I drink fresh fruit juices. Breakfast is light and I prefer eating ghar ka khana. I usually have theplas and parathas for breakfast and follow a balanced diet throughout the day. Lunch consists of two chapattis, green vegetables, sabzi and dal with rice. Dinner is again the same. I love to eat mushrooms and cabbage. I am not a party person so I am faithful to my mom’s khana [food]. Before I go to sleep, I drink a glass of milk, which not only provides me with good, sound sleep, but also supplements me with all the required nutrients.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | APRIL 2015

MY FAVOURITE CUISINE Our Mangalorian cuisine. I also love Thai food. DIET I don’t believe in fasting or binging. I eat in moderation and I eat to live and not live to eat. It is not good to starve yourself, or overstuff your own body. Love your body because if it remains in good shape, you’ll always be healthy. I don’t tend to put on weight. I start my day with two glasses of warm water and follow a balanced diet throughout the day. I avoid leafy veggies and roadside food during monsoons. I always try and avoid deep-fried and packaged foods. TIPS ON HEALTHY EATING It is important to understand your own body structure. Eat what you like, but eat in moderation. Avoid junk foods, cheese and fats. Avoid deep-fried and packaged foods as much as possible. Eating outside home can create complications. So, try to eat food made at home. It is not only hygienic, but also tastes so well, apart from being healthy.

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