6 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Aging, cold weather, and medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, or hypothyroidism can make the condition worse the skin. In addition, frequent exposure to hot water, harsh soaps makes the skin rough and dry and prone to splitting.

Symptoms

·       The skin around the heel becomes dry, hard, and thickened, forming a callus.

·       You might notice flaky or peeling skin on the heels.

·       The affected area may become itchy.

·       Standing or walking can become painful, especially if the cracks are deep.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Cracked Heels

1. Herbal Foot Soaks

Soaking your feet in Ayurvedic herbal infusions can soften the skin and promote healing. Soaking your feet in Ayurvedic herbal infusions can soften the skin and promote healing. Soaking your feet in the Neem and Tulsi is good to prevent infections. The antibacterial properties in it can prevent bacteria from entering any open wounds or cuts on your feet, reducing the risk of infection.

2. Oil Massage for Nourishment

Regular oil massage nourishes the skin, improves circulation, and prevents dryness.

·       Coconut Oil: Deeply moisturizes and heals cracks.

·       Sesame Oil: Warms the feet and balances Vata dosha.

·       Castor Oil: Has thick consistency and strong healing properties.

How to use: Warm the oil slightly and massage your feet before bedtime. Cover with cotton socks overnight.

3. Ayurvedic Scrubs for Exfoliation

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and promotes cell regeneration. Rice Flour and Honey is one of the best skin exfoliation scrubs.

·       Mix 2 tablespoons of rice flour with a teaspoon of honey and water.

·       Scrub gently on the heels for 5-10 minutes before washing off.

·       Oatmeal and Yogurt Scrub

·       Combine ground oatmeal with yogurt to make a thick paste.

·       Apply, scrub gently, and rinse with warm water.

4. Healing Pastes and Poultices

Applying Ayurvedic pastes helps to heal deep cracks and nourish the skin. Try banana and honey paste to hydrate and heal.

·       Mash a ripe banana and mix it with honey.

·       Apply to cracked heels, leave for 20 minutes, and rinse off.

·       Aloe Vera and Turmeric Paste

·       Mix aloe vera gel with a pinch of turmeric.

·       Apply overnight for deep hydration and healing.

5. Dietary Tips for a Healthy Skin

Ayurveda focuses on the importance of food habits for the skin. For instance, a balanced diet involving more organic and healthy foods will make your skin healthy.

·       Include ghee in your diet: Consuming ghee will nourish your skin and balance your vata dosha.

·       Eat a lot of vitamin-rich foods: Include more Vitamin E, A, and C-rich foods in your diet. For instance, foods like carrots, citrus fruits, and almonds will keep your skin young and healthy.

·       Stay Hydrated: Keeping your skin hydrated is equally important as the skin needs moisture, and that can be obtained from fresh water, herbal teas, and so on.

6. Lifestyle Modifications for Healthy Feet

·       Wear comfortable footwear: Avoid open-back shoes that expose heels to dryness.

·       Moisturize daily: Apply herbal creams or oils before bedtime.

·       Avoid prolonged standing: Take breaks to relieve foot pressure.

·       Practice yoga for circulation: Yoga asanas like Padmasana (Lotus pose) and Vajrasana (Thunderbolt pose) improve blood flow to the feet.

Ayurvedic Herbal Formulations for Cracked Heels

1. Nalpamaradi Thailam: A healing oil blend for skin nourishment. This traditional Ayurvedic formula is made with natural ingredients like turmeric, sesame oil, and vetiver. It helps to improve skin texture, reduce pigmentation, and promote overall skin health.

2. Kumkumadi Tailam: It has skin-rejuvenating properties. This ancient Ayurvedic oil is formulated with saffron, sandalwood, and lotus to brighten complexion and reduce signs of aging. It also helps to even out skin tone and improve skin elasticity.

3. Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu: Helps with skin disorders and dryness. This is a combination of five bitter herbs and ghee, known for its detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help alleviate symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions while nourishing and moisturizing the skin.

4. Triphala Powder: Improves skin health by detoxifying the body. Triphala powder is a powerful antioxidant that aids in removing toxins from the body, resulting in clearer and healthier skin. It also helps to improve digestion and promote overall well-being.

Conclusion

Cracked heels are more than just a cosmetic concern; they indicate internal imbalances that need attention. Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to healing cracked heels by addressing the root cause and promoting overall skin health. By following these Ayurvedic remedies, maintaining a nutritious diet, and adopting a foot care routine, you can achieve soft, smooth, and healthy feet naturally.

The combination of these components is highly valued in Ayurveda, as their collective effect is believed to be more effective than when used individually.

What is in 2.8 grams of Triphala powder?

• Calorie Count: 10
• No protein detected (0 grams)
• No fat content (0 grams)
• Carbohydrates: 3 grams
• Fiber Counter: 1 gram
• No sugar (0 grams)

Triphala Benefits

• Triphala Benefits in Digestive Health: Triphala is primarily known for its digestive benefits. It supports healthy digestion by regulating bowel movements, relieving constipation, and promoting the proper absorption of nutrients. It also helps in reducing bloating & flatulence.
• Triphala Benefits in Detoxification: Triphala is widely recognized as a natural detoxifier. It effectively removes toxins from the body, specifically targeting the colon, kidneys, and liver. Also, it is known to aid the body's natural detoxification processes when consumed regularly.
• Properties with Antioxidant Benefits: The three fruits in Triphala are packed with antioxidants, which play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals and safeguarding cells from oxidative damage. This can have a positive impact on one's overall health and potentially lower the likelihood of developing chronic diseases.
• Benefits of Triphala for Immune System: Triphala has been recognized for its ability to enhance the immune system. This text highlights the numerous benefits of this substance, including its antioxidant properties, ability to support digestion and detoxification, and potential to boost immunity and prevent illnesses.
• Triphala Benefits in Effects on Inflammation: Triphala has compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in the reduction of inflammation within the body. These benefits can extend to conditions like arthritis, gastritis, and other inflammatory disorders.
• Triphala for a healthy complexion: Triphala is thought to have the ability to cleanse the blood and support the health of the skin from the inside out. Its detoxifying and antioxidant properties can assist in managing a range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
• Triphala Benefits in Weight Management: There is evidence to support the idea that Triphala can be beneficial for weight loss and weight management. It is believed to enhance digestion, facilitate the removal of toxins, and increase metabolism. However, further research is required to validate its efficacy for weight loss.
• Benefits of Triphala in Oral Health: Triphala is commonly utilized in Ayurvedic dental care due to its powerful antimicrobial properties. It can be beneficial for maintaining oral hygiene, preventing gum diseases, and reducing plaque formation.
• Triphala Benefits in Eye Health: According to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Triphala has been linked to promoting eye health and enhancing vision. There is a belief that it can provide nourishment to the eyes and help relieve eye strain.
• Benefits of Triphala in Relieving Stress: Triphala is widely recognized for its ability to support the body in managing stress and promoting overall balance. It may enhance mental clarity, alleviate anxiety, and contribute to overall health and happiness.

Various Types of Triphala

• Triphala Churna – Powder form
• Triphala Kwatha (Decoction)
• Triphala Taila (Oil)
• Triphala Masi (Ash)
• Triphala Gritha (semi-solid to be mixed and consumed with ghee or clarified butter)

Though it is safe to use Triphala in any form it is advised to connect with your doctor to know more about its safety and usage.

Side Effects of Triphala:

While the suggested daily intake of Triphala is generally safe for adults, it's important to be cautious about taking it in excessive amounts. This is because there is a possibility of experiencing side effects, including:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Stomach Upset
• Issues with loose stools or diarrhea and constipation
• Dehydration

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on blood thinners, you mustn't use Triphala. Furthermore, people can have an allergic response after using Triphala. Like other ayurvedic medications, Triphala should only be bought from a trusted pharmacy.

To ensure the authenticity and effectiveness of Ayurvedic telemedicine for chronic illnesses, it is essential for qualified and experienced practitioners. Look for practitioners who have proper Ayurvedic training, certifications, and a good reputation. Additionally, verify that the telemedicine platform complies with healthcare regulations and data security.

Ayurvedic Telemedicine for Chronic Illnesses 

Ayurvedic telemedicine can be used to manage chronic illnesses, but it's essential to approach it with caution and in conjunction with conventional medical care. It removes geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with qualified Ayurvedic practitioners regardless of their location. This can be especially advantageous for individuals living in areas with limited access to Ayurvedic healthcare.  

About the medications and therapies, Ayurveda employs natural therapies such as herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and detoxification procedures (Panchakarma). These natural treatments can be gentler and have fewer side effects than other medical interventions, making them suitable for managing chronic conditions over the long term. 

World Ayurveda Day, 2023 

Theme: “One Health for Ayurveda” 

As per the Press Information Bureau, Government of India, it is stated that the Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping and Waterways has declared that the theme of World Ayurveda Day observed on 10th November 2023 will be "Ayurveda for One Health," with the tag line "Ayurveda for everyone on every day," which aligns with the "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" theme of India's G20 Presidency. 

Ayurveda for One Health is a call to action, emphasizing that the well-being of individuals, the planet, and animals are interconnected and interdependent. By embracing Ayurvedic principles of overall health, sustainable living, and compassion, we can contribute to the restoration and preservation of a balanced, harmonious world where the health of all living beings is considered as one.  

1. Human Health (Atman): 

Ayurveda recognizes that human health is deeply intertwined with the health of the planet and the welfare of animals. It encourages people to align their lifestyles with the natural rhythms of the earth, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. By maintaining personal health, individuals can contribute to the overall well-being of our interconnected world. 

2. Planetary Health (Prithvi): 

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of sustainable living and ecological harmony. It advocates for a conscious and sustainable approach to resource use, reducing waste, and living in harmony with nature. Ayurvedic practices like organic farming, herbal medicine, and eco-friendly living reflect a commitment to preserving the planet's health. 

3. Animal Health (Pashu) 

In Ayurveda, animals are seen as integral to the balance of our world. Ayurvedic principles advocate for the compassionate treatment of animals, recognizing their role in both human well-being and ecological balance. Practices such as Ahimsa (non-violence) and the use of herbal treatments for animals promote the welfare of all living creatures. 

Ayurveda's Role in Promoting “One Health” 

• Sustainable Living: Ayurveda encourages mindful living, from reducing waste to conserving natural resources. These practices help protect the planet's health.
• Herbal Medicine: Ayurveda's use of plant-based medicines not only human health but also contributes to biodiversity conservation. 
• Balanced Nutrition: Ayurvedic dietary principles promote a balance of food sources, reducing the strain on the planet's resources and promoting health. 
• Respect for All Life: Ayurveda's principles of Ahimsa extend to all living creatures, fostering an environment of compassion and respect. 
• Complete Healthcare: Ayurveda provides a global approach to health, addressing the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being for both humans and animals. 

Ayurveda, with its timeless wisdom, provides a pathway to achieve this goal, ensuring the health and balance of the people, planet, and animals. 

Summing Up 

Ayurveda offers a time-tested and integrated approach to well-being that is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. By adopting Ayurvedic principles in your daily life, and seeking guidance from qualified Ayurvedic practitioners, you can experience the profound benefits of this ancient system of healing. Whether you are looking to prevent illness, improve your health, or simply find balance in your life, Ayurveda provides a comprehensive guide to a healthier, more harmonious you.

Note: Though neem is generally considered safe for use, some people may have adverse reactions to it. Therefore, it is best to do a patch test before use. If you think you might be allergic to those neem products, you might want to consult a dermatologist.

However, cardiology conditions require experts’ attention. Consult a cardiologist if you have heart problems.

Improves Digestion

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of turmeric help digestion. p-tolymethylcarbinol in turmeric may increase secretin, bicarbonate, gastrin, and pancreatic enzyme secretion. According to an animal study, turmeric may help prevent ulcers caused by stress, alcohol, indomethacin (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine), reserpine, and pyloric ligation (a disease that causes gastric acid accumulation in the stomach) by boosting gastric wall mucus and turmeric is being examined for irritable bowel syndrome(IBS).

Cure Infections

Turmeric extract and the essential oil of curcuma longa can kill number of bacteria, parasites, and fungi (both ether and chloroform extracts of turmeric have the capacity to inhibit fungal growth).

Medicinal properties like antiviral properties help fight against infection-causing microbes.

Beneficial to the Respiratory system

Turmeric might be able to stop nosebleeds, clear your sinuses, and make your sense of smell better. Cough, sinusitis, and dyspnea may also benefit from turmeric (difficulty in breathing). However, more study is needed to verify these benefits.

Good for the Skin

The cleansing and nourishing effects of turmeric on the blood may result in healthy, beautiful skin. With its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, it has the potential to be useful in treating skin illnesses such as acne, eczema, and other similar conditions. Possible anti-aging benefits include these.

Sunscreens and cosmetics often include turmeric as an ingredient. However, more study is needed to determine its effects on the skin.

Practical Use of Turmeric You Can Think of:

You can include turmeric in your diet by adding the spice to a variety of meals, such as the following:

• Soups
• Scrambled eggs
• Roasted veggies
• Smoothies
• Rice
• Milk

Turmeric face mask to help reduce acne and scars.

Turmeric has been shown to be safe for use. Yet, there have been some negative effects despite the medication's proven record of safety. So, excessive use has been linked to the following negative effects:

• Diarrhoea    
• Rashes
• Irregular, yellow bowel movements
• Headache
• Nausea

It is important to always remember that your health is a valuable asset. So, it is essential to make informed choices and find expert advice when necessary.