Latest news with #Pitta
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Think ‘dahi' cools you? Ayurveda warns dahi can overheat your body if eaten wrong
Ayurveda warns dahi can overheat your body if eaten wrong In the scorching weather, to cool ourselves, we often consume dahi, or curd, as our staple food in the summer. We listen to our parents urging us to have a bowl of dahi to beat this summer heat and being nagged by them to avoid eating dahi at night so we don't catch a cold. In this way, we have been taught that curd has cooling properties. But according to Ayurveda, curd is sour in taste and hot in nature and is said to be heavy to digest. Ayurveda says no to curd or dahi consumption According to Ayurveda, curd, or dahi, is high in Kapha and Pitta dosha and low in Vata dosha, meaning having Kapha-Pitta dominance with low Vata means your body and mind are governed by the qualities of stability, strength, and focus. Kapha brings calmness, patience, and physical endurance, while Pitta adds sharp intellect, ambition, and strong digestion. Since Vata is low, you're less likely to experience anxiety, restlessness, or irregular routines. However, you may need to watch out for issues like weight gain and sluggishness (Kapha) or irritability and overheating (Pitta). Balancing both doshas involves staying active, avoiding heavy or spicy foods, and maintaining a cooling yet stimulating lifestyle to stay energised and mentally clear. So there are certain things to keep in mind while having curd in any season. This is the reason that when you consume curd in summer, it increases the body heat of some people. Also, if you consume it in excess, considering it to be healthy, then you can see pimples and many other important problems on the face. Guide to consuming dahi by Ayurveda According to the Arya Vaidya Chikkitsalayam and Research Institute , one should not consume curd at night because of the following reasons: The curd is heavy to digest; it is also hot in potency. Therefore, when consumed at night, it may interfere with your sleep, as extra energy is required for its digestion. It also triggers the secretion of mucus, making the condition adverse for individuals suffering from asthma, a condition that takes a longer period to manage according to Ayurveda. Curd should not be heated. If you heat the curd, it can alter its properties, which can lead to suffocation and swelling in your body. The daily consumption of curd is prohibited in Ayurveda. It is because curd is known to be heavy in nature and increases inflammation in the body. The Ayurvedic experts suggest that the only variation of curd that can be consumed regularly is churned buttermilk that has added spices such as rock salt, black pepper, and cumin. 5 cooling ayurvedic drinks to replace curd this summer Nimbu sharbat/lemon : One of the most extensively used remedies to beat the summer heat is a natural cooling drink. Lemon acts as a cooling agent and brings down body heat. So generously add the dash of lemon syrup into your salads, soups, and other dishes, which can taste great after adding this summer wonder. Mint : Another commonly used herb to combat the summer heat is mint. The mint has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of the best herbs to calm your nerves when you feel the heat dial up a notch during this season. Tender coconut water : Naturally sweet and full of electrolytes, coconut water is a natural body coolant. It helps maintain hydration, balances pitta dosha, and is ideal during hot afternoons. Amla-turmeric refresher : Amla's vitamin C boosts immunity, turmeric fights inflammation, and mint cools Pitta. This drink energises and detoxifies naturally. Cucumber-mint-tulsi cooler : This drink hydrates deeply, cools Pitta, and reduces stress. Cucumber's water content flushes toxins, while Tulsi boosts immunity—perfect for summer resilience. Also read | Apples vs pears: Which fruit is better for your health
Indian Express
11-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Mira Kapoor says she has been sleeping ‘like a baby' for six months, all thanks to this concoction
Mira Kapoor is an Ayurveda buff who prefers home remedies made with natural ingredients. The entrepreneur recently shared that she has been having an Ayurvedic drink for good sleep, which seems to have worked for her. 'I have been having this sleep drink every night for the last six weeks. I sleep like a baby, and it's really helped with regulating my pre-cycle zits,' Kapoor shared on Instagram Stories. According to her, the drink prepared with half a cup of warm milk, a pinch of jaggery, turmeric, and ghee has helped her 'mind relax' and tune out the noise. 'I wake up rested in the morning,' said Kapoor, who suggested people with a Vata constitution, like her, should try the recipe. Taking a cue from her admission, let's understand if this concoction is beneficial. According to Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator, warm milk contains tryptophan, which helps our bodies produce melatonin, the hormone that gently lulls us to sleep. 'Turmeric brings powerful anti-inflammatory and calming benefits, ghee nourishes our nervous system and aids digestion, and jaggery adds a touch of natural sweetness and essential minerals,' said Malhotra. Milk also provides magnesium and calcium, which aid muscle relaxation and calm the nervous system, said Dr Birali Swetha, chief dietician, Gleneagles Aware Hospital, LB Nagar, Hyderabad. 'Adding a teaspoon of ghee provides healthy fats and helps in the absorption of turmeric's active compound, curcumin. Ghee also supports gut health and reduces inflammation,' said Dr Birali. Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric cleanses the body of toxins, supports joint health, and calms internal inflammation—all factors that can disrupt restful sleep. It also boosts immunity, making it ideal for seasonal transitions, said Danny Kumar Meena, founder and CEO, Girlyveda. Jaggery, in small amounts, offers natural sweetness along with iron and minerals. 'It helps stabilise blood sugar through the night and supports digestion—another key factor in uninterrupted sleep,' said Dr Birali. These ingredients create a comforting bedtime ritual that helps relax the mind, soothe the body, and promote deep, restful sleep. Malhotra said that if you have a Vata constitution, this drink's warmth and grounding effect can be beneficial. For Pitta types, a lighter version with fewer spices can keep things cool and balanced. And if you're Kapha, you might want to enjoy it earlier in the evening with some digestive spices or less dairy. ' By tuning into our bodies and adapting these ancient recipes, Malhotra shared that we can find simple, natural ways to support our daily health and wellbeing. 'Sometimes, the best medicine is a warm cup of golden milk and a moment of calm before bed,' said Malhotra. Dr Birali emphasised that it is best consumed warm, 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. 'When consumed 30–60 minutes before bedtime, this warm Ayurvedic drink not only promotes deep, restorative sleep but also supports digestion, joint health, skin hydration, and respiratory relief.,' said Danny. Those with diabetes or lactose intolerance should consult a physician before incorporating it regularly, stressed Dr Birali. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
NDTV
28-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Ayurvedic Summer Tips: These Foods Will Keep You Cool
With the scorching summer heat taking a toll on our bodies, Ayurveda offers time-tested wisdom to stay balanced, hydrated, and healthy. According to Ayurveda, summer is dominated by the Pitta dosha, a combination of fire and water elements. When this dosha becomes aggravated due to excessive heat, it can lead to acidity, skin issues, irritability, and dehydration. To counter this, Ayurvedic principles recommend cooling, hydrating, and naturally sweet foods that pacify Pitta and support digestion. Let's explore Ayurvedic-approved summer foods that help regulate body temperature and keep your energy high while keeping heat-induced ailments at bay. Why cooling foods matter in summer In summer, the body's internal heat rises, which can disrupt digestion and lead to imbalances in mood and metabolism. Ayurveda suggests including foods that are naturally cooling, sweet, liquid, and slightly oily to soothe the Pitta dosha and protect internal equilibrium. Here are Ayurvedic foods and drinks that will keep your body cool and refreshed. 1. Coconut water Known as naariyal paani, coconut water is naturally sweet, hydrating, and rich in electrolytes. It helps prevent dehydration, soothes the stomach, and reduces body heat. It's also excellent for skin health during summers. 2. Buttermilk (chaas) Buttermilk is a probiotic-rich summer drink that cools the gut and aids digestion. Add a pinch of roasted cumin (jeera), mint, and black salt for extra cooling effects and digestive benefits. 3. Cucumber This water-rich vegetable is a classic Pitta-pacifying food. Cucumber hydrates, detoxifies, and provides dietary fibre. Ayurveda considers it ideal for salads, raitas, or mid-meal snacks in hot months. 4. Watermelon and muskmelon These fruits are sweet, hydrating, and cooling, perfect for balancing Pitta. However, Ayurveda recommends not combining melons with other foods and eating them on an empty stomach for optimal digestion. 5. Sabja seeds (basil seeds) Soaked sabja seeds (also called tukmaria) are excellent natural coolants. They swell in water and can be added to lemon water or milk-based drinks. They also support digestion and reduce acidity. 6. Mint leaves (pudina) Mint is a powerful herb in Ayurveda known for its cooling and calming properties. Use it to flavour chaas, chutneys, lemonades, or even fresh salads. It also freshens breath and aids digestion. 7. Aloe vera juice Aloe vera is a well-known Pitta-soothing herb. Consuming small amounts of fresh aloe vera juice early in the morning can help cool the body and support liver and skin health. However, moderation is key. 8. Gulkand (rose petal preserve) Gulkand is a traditional Ayurvedic tonic made from rose petals and sugar. It is cooling, aromatic, and helps relieve acidity, skin inflammation, and heat-related fatigue. Add a spoon to milk or eat it plain. 9. Fennel (saunf) water Soak fennel seeds overnight and drink the strained water in the morning. This refreshing Ayurvedic remedy cools the system and improves digestion. Fennel is also good for eye health during dry summer days. What to avoid in summer To keep Pitta in check, Ayurveda advises reducing intake of spicy, salty, sour, fried, and fermented foods. Minimise alcohol, caffeine, red meat, onions, garlic, and excess sun exposure to avoid aggravating body heat and digestive distress. Ayurveda teaches us to eat with the seasons and stay in tune with nature. In summer, cooling foods like coconut water, cucumber, and buttermilk act as natural shields against the heat. By making mindful food choices rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom, you can stay energised, calm, and balanced, even when temperatures soar. Let food be your medicine this summer. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
India Today
27-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Ashwagandha and Ayurveda: Natural ways to manage stress and boost mental clarity
Ever feel like your mind has 20 tabs open, and the real problem isn't the noise, but the fact that you can't tell which one task deserves your attention first? The chaos of modern life doesn't just overwhelm your calendar; it clouds your thinking, drains your focus, and makes even simple decisions feel heavier than they May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, it's the perfect reminder that stress does not have to be the default setting for modern living. Long before therapy apps, trending hacks, or self-help podcasts entered the chat, Ayurveda had already laid out simple, time-tested ways to build calm and resilience. At the heart of this ancient wisdom lies Ashwagandha, a powerful herb that calms the mind and restores is more than just a natural supplement; in Ayurveda, it's classified as a Rasayana, a rejuvenator of both mind and body. This adaptogenic herb helps your system stay balanced, even when life doesn't. It's known for supporting your nervous system, managing cortisol levels, and improving emotional stability — all without the crash that comes from caffeine or energy drinks. What makes Ashwagandha special is its long-game effect: it strengthens your inner resilience, making you less reactive to daily stressors and more capable of handling emotional and physical demands with ease, with inputs from Dr Govind, Chief Innovation Officer, Rituals That Calm the ChaosIn Ayurveda, stress isn't seen as something that lives only in your head — it's a signal that your entire system is out of sync. Small daily rituals, paired with nature's support, can help realign the mind, body, and spirit:advertisement1. Herbal SupportAshwagandha is often the go-to herb for stress, but Ayurveda also leans on other plant allies. Jatamansi helps promote deep relaxation, Brahmi sharpens mental clarity, and Shankhpushpi offers emotional grounding. Together, these herbs create a natural cushion for the nervous system, allowing you to face life's curveballs with calm.2. Eat to Soothe, Not Stress Ayurveda teaches that food is fuel for both the body and the mind. Eating in sync with your dosha — whether Vata, Pitta, or Kapha — creates emotional balance from within. For Vata types, warm and grounding foods like stews, root vegetables, and hearty soups help stabilise the mind and body. Pitta types find relief with cooling options such as cucumber, coconut water, and leafy greens. Meanwhile, Kapha types feel lighter and more energised with spiced, light meals like mung bean soup, steamed vegetables, and warming spices such as ginger and turmeric. Adding Ashwagandha to your diet, either as a supplement or mixed into warm milk, can enhance this balance even further.3. Move, Breathe, and ReleaseYoga and pranayama (breathwork) are more than fitness — they're stress detox tools. Flows like Surya Namaskar, grounding postures like forward bends, and calming techniques like alternate nostril breathing help clear emotional clutter. Ashwagandha can complement this by building endurance, supporting recovery, and promoting Make Friends with StillnessWhen your mind is racing, sitting quietly can feel impossible. Ashwagandha helps ease the nervous system into a calmer state, making it easier to practice meditation, mindfulness, or even just conscious breathing, helping you reconnect to your centre.5. Align with Nature's Clock Ayurveda's daily rhythm practice, known as Dinacharya, is a gentle antidote to the high-speed pace of modern life. Rising with the sun, eating at regular intervals, and winding down before 10 p.m. help your body and mind fall into harmony with natural cycles. Ashwagandha can support this routine by easing nighttime restlessness and promoting deep, restorative sleep.6. Create a Sleep SanctuaryOne of Ayurveda's most nurturing rituals is Abhyanga — a warm oil self-massage before bed. Combine this with dimmed lights, unplugged gadgets, and a calming nighttime routine to signal your body that it's time to switch off. Ashwagandha supports this transition by calming the mind and preparing the body for restful stress might be woven into the fabric of modern life, it doesn't have to define your days. Ayurveda offers more than quick fixes — it offers small, meaningful ways to steady yourself, even when the world around you isn't. When herbs like Ashwagandha meet mindful daily habits, the journey from feeling scattered to feeling centred becomes less about perfection and more about progress. One breath, one ritual, one moment at a time, you can choose calm.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Cataract surgery scaring you? Ayurveda has some non-invasive solutions
Cataract, a common ocular condition that happens with the opacification of the lens, is known in Ayurveda as Timira, and eventually can lead to Linganasa, or complete vision loss. And while modern medicine treats cataract primarily through surgical removal of the clouded lens, Ayurveda gives people a medical management of early and some moderate stages through treatments that are although centuries old, they still hold merit in clinical trials. These herbal remedies and procedures aim to restore vision and halt the degeneration of the lens naturally. Understanding Cataract in Ayurvedic terms In Ayurvedic ophthalmology, Timira is one of the earliest stages of vision deterioration. It is described as the vitiation of Doshas in the netra-mandala, or the eye structure, and it leads to dysfunction of the retinal zone and visual perception. When not treated early, Timira may progress to Linganasa. Cataract, in particular, is considered a Kapha-dominant Timira, where the Kapha dosha, along with medas accumulates over the lens, leading to opacity. The treatments for early stages as mentioned in Ayurveda Ayurvedic management of Cataract emphasises early intervention, and the treatment involves a combination of internal medicine (Aushadha), external therapies, dietary regulations, and lifestyle modifications. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo And in the book 'Holistic Health: Laws and Facts' by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, the duo mentions different treatments that have been used for thousands of years to treat the condition. Certain preparations are used for the treatment that are considered beneficial for the eyes, and these include consuming medicated ghee, and using a mix of Triphala, and other herbs that nourish ocular tissues, pacify vitiated doshas, and halt the progression of lens opacity. There are also nasal therapies where medicated oils or powders are passed through the nose to clear the channels connecting the head and eyes. There are also certain detox therapies that purify the doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha, and purgation therapies are used to remove vision disorders. Ayurveda also recommends using and applying on the eyes, a paste of Copper, Triphala, conch shell dust, Kanta, and Vyosa. When prepared into a wick and applied like Kajal below the eyes, this can help treat certain conditions of vision loss. Apart from decoctions, herbs, and more Ayurveda has also always advocated for lifestyle changes to treat diseases and disorders, and Cataract is no different. It is advised by people to avoid exposure to excessive heat, dust, wind, and bright lights. People are also asked to practice Trataka meditation, where you gaze onto a single source of light, and when done under guidance and correctly, it helps to improve focus and ocular muscle strength. In which cases should one opt for Surgery? While Ayurveda gives substantial relief and reversal in early-to-moderate cataract stages, advanced stages, where the lens is fully opaque, may not respond to medical therapy alone. In such cases, surgery is advised, followed by Ayurvedic recovery protocols to preserve long-term ocular health. Future-Proof Your Child with AI Skills | Limited Early Bird Seats – 33% OFF! | WhatsApp: 9560500838
