Journal

Nadya Andreeva

2011-12-11T00:50:15Z

Nadya is a yoga instructor and ayurveda enthusiast who grew up in Russia in a family of doctors. Nadya grew up practising yoga and learning about different healing approaches in Russia, India, and later all over the US. Trained in yoga therapy and ayurveda Nadya works to create a wholesome path to wellness through yoga classes and nutrition workshops. She holds an MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from NYU and hopes to eventually bring her holistic approach to wellness into the corporate world. For more tips on healthy eating and yoga, follow her blog.

http://spinachandyoga.com/

Check out her latest article for MindBodyGreen.com on the 10 Common Food Combinations that Wreak Havoc on Your Health: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-3615/10-Common-Food-Combinations-That-Wreak-Havoc-on-Your-Health.html

Hot Yoga

2011-07-13T18:58:22Z

HOT YOGA? Maybe not - What is YOUR appropriate yoga practice?

Don't get me wrong, I love yoga, but we have lost the core structure of this ancient sister science of Ayurveda. Bringing ourselves to the root knowledge of our unique selves will help enable us to find the appropriate yoga practice.

The book Yoga for your Type, Dr. David Frawley, outlines the many methods for a custom yoga practice based on the laws of the universe and the inner process of cosmogenesis that holds the keys to all our unique transformations. The two systems of Ayurveda and Yoga have maintained a long and intimate history, interacting upon and enhancing one another up to the present day.

Begin with researching what your body needs. By knowing your constitution (Prakruti), what are your imbalances (Vikruti) are and connecting with this chemistry will allow you to make better decisions about your yoga practice.

Things to consider:

Body Type
Time of day for yoga practice
Yoga style
Temperature of room

Once you have dertermined your personal element/doshic balance, you can begin to custom design your practice. Selecting a yoga teacher that is educated in Ayurveda will ensure your practice provides modifications for not just physical injuries or limitations, but also for your personal body type needs.

Ayurvedic Yoga Video Options:

Madhuri Phillips offers an Ayurvedic overview and custom guidelines on her video: An Ayurvedic Yoga Practice

Madhuri's video covers:

An introductory lecture on Ayurveda and how it is relevant to you!
A 10 page booklet including a dosha checklist to analyze your own Ayurvedic constitution
3 different yoga classes for vata (to de-stress and relax), pitta (to cool and calm), and kapha (to invigorate and energize)
Pranayama breathing practices suited for each dosha
Chanting and meditation for all doshas
This DVD is suitable for all levels

Another great option by Juliet Jivanti: Ayurvedic Yoga For Your Body Type

Juliet's video covers:

This DVD has three sequences: one for each body type (dosha), Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The Vata sequence is rejuvenating and grounding, the Pitta sequence is cooling and soothing and the Kapha sequence is energizing and uplifting
Each sequence is approximately 30 minutes long
These sequences are for all levels of yoga practitioners

One of my teachers, Mas Vidal, also has a new Ayurvedic Yoga video: Mas Vidal's Optimum Yoga & Ayurveda

Mas's video covers:

Air - Fire - Water element based series
Each series if focused on the unique qualities of a Vata - air - Pitta - Fire - Kapha - Water
Appropriate for all levels of yoga practice

Hot Yoga Soap Box:

Hot Yoga most certainly can provide some benefits for some body types. Here are some lovely benefits that can be found on many Hot Yoga practice websites(along with some added Ayurvedic commentary:

"The heat has many benefits ..."

The heat means we can get into postures more deeply and effectively (Great for Kapha body types, possibly causing injury for Vata body types) - plus the benefits of the postures come quickly (take a look at a bell curve on progress and consider the downside of fast burnout). Like thousands before you, you will find that practising yoga in the warm room creates a satisfying and almost addictive feeling of achievement. (For some Kapha and Vata body types, depending on current imbalance state - the addictive feeling is called an imbalance)

The benefits are many:

Your body burns fat more effectively, fat may be redistributed and burned as energy during the class. It is common to lose centimetres of shape in a very short time (for a Kapha body type this is acceptable, for Vata and Pitta this can be quite disruptive to cellular health and metabolism)
The heat produces a fluid-like stretch allowing for greater range of movement in joints, muscles, ligaments and other supporting structures of the body (Correct, but it also may be vitiating for Pitta predominates)
Capillaries dilate in the heat; more effectively oxygenating the tissues, muscles, glands and organs and helping in the removal of waste products (True, but this can be achieved without the addition of external heat, through the asana practice itself).
Your peripheral circulation improves due to enhanced perfusion of your extremities (Also achieved through a yoga practice which does not have increased external heat)
Your metabolism speeds up the breakdown of glucose and fatty acids (Correct, this is not a result of the hot room though, it is from the yoga asana practice)
You benefit from a strengthening of willpower, self control, concentration and determination in this challenging environment (State of mind, yoga asana provides this without the heated room)
Your cardiovascular system gets a thorough workout (Great! same same)
Your muscles and connective tissue become more elastic and allow for greater flexibility with less chance of injury and improved resolution of injury (Yes! Just as any non-heated yoga practice provides)
Sweating promotes detoxification and elimination through the skin - which is the body's largest eliminating organ (It sure does, but some Pitta body types perspire enough on their own and may experience dehydration from a heated practice)
Just as when your body raises its temperature to fight infection, the raised temperature in the room will assist in improving T-cell function and the proper functioning of your immune system (Also achieved with a standard yoga practice in a non-heated room)
Your nervous system function is greatly improved and messages are carried more efficiently to and from your brain (Because of a heated yoga practice? I am pretty sure that message is, "If you are a pitta predominant, you are going to be light headed and nauseous very soon.")
Metabolism improves in your digestive system and in the body's cells (that is food in the gut and nutrients in the cells) (Once again, this is not due to a hot room while practicing yoga. This is the natural physical response from a proper yoga asana routine).

With the current day world of yoga that we live within - it is important to know that there are many patented versions available to us that might be worth exploring. The best way to begin is by knowing your personal needs and chemistry. Ayurveda will provide this knowledge for you and allow you to safely proceed with your yoga journey. Explore your personal body type through one of the many wonderful books we have today (recommended reading section of this website) or see your local Ayurvedic ND/ARNP/MD/BAMS/Practitioner.

Thyroid Health

2011-03-16T17:22:19Z

Times like these raise our awareness on the value of optimized thyroid function. Through diet and lifestle we can manage the health of our thyroid.

Regardless of what you do on a typical day, go to school, work, or stay home, in each case you are being exposed to radiation. Whether you know it or not you are being exposed to radioactivity everyday of your life.

Nuclear radiation is all around us in the environment. Low-level radiation is found in the oceans and waterways, the rocks and soils, the plant materials and in the atmosphere surrounding the planet. The radiation that we are exposed to can be said to come from two sources, that which occur naturally and that which is due to the activities of man. More information can be found here: http://www.chem.duke.edu/~jds/cruise_chem/nuclear/exposure.html

Our daily routine should include thyroid strengthening breathing exercises and foods. The thyroid gland is controlled by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the pituitary (to be specific, the anterior pituitary) and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) produced by the hypothalamus. The thyroid gland gets its name from the Greek word for "shield", after the shape of the related thyroid cartilage. The most common problems of the thyroid gland consist of an overactive thyroid gland, referred to as hyperthyroidism, and an underactive thyroid gland, referred to as hypothyroidism.

The thyroid is composed of spherical follicles that selectively absorb iodine (as iodide ions, I^-) from the blood for production of thyroid hormones, but also for storage of iodine in thyroglobulin, in fact iodine is necessary for other important iodine-concentrating organs as breast, stomach, salivary glands, thymus etc. (see iodine in biology).

Twenty-five percent of all the body's iodide ions are in the thyroid gland. Inside the follicles, colloid serves as a reservoir of materials for thyroid hormone production and, to a lesser extent, acts as a reservoir for the hormones themselves. Colloid is rich in a protein called thyroglobulin.

The primary function of the thyroid is production of the hormones triiodothyronine (T₃), thyroxine (T₄), and calcitonin. Up to 80% of the T₄ is converted to T₃ by peripheral organs such as the liver, kidney and spleen. T₃ is several times more powerful than T₄, which is largely a prohormone, perhaps four^[21] or even ten times more active.^[22

More on the Thyroid function and disorders from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyroid

Ayurveda offers the tools for keeping your thyroid function in top working order.

Pranayama breathing exercises that strenthen the function: http://www.yogamax.net/pranayama/ujjayi

Yoga asana's: http://www.holisticonline.com/yoga/hol_yoga_pos_shoulst.htm

Products to add to your diet:

http://www.bragg.com/products/seakelp.html

http://www.nowfoods.com/Products/ProductsAlphabetically/M100308.htm

http://www.kelpnoodles.com/products_mixed_sea_veggies.html

Throw out the poor quality table salt and purchase pure sea salt and add the kelp flakes in yourself!

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=135

The Benefits of Massage - by System

2010-12-21T17:53:40Z

General Massage Benefits

Massage is a pleasurable experience
Massage restores stress, tension and anxiety levels
Massage calms the nervous system and has produces equilibrium
Massage relaxes, focuses and clears your mind
Massage boosts self-esteem and a general feeling of well being
Massage restores self-awareness

Muscular system

Massage relaxes muscles, effectively reducing spasms, tension and cramping
Massage reduces and breaks down adhesions (knots) and fibrosis
Massage helps to re-establish proper muscular tone
Massage relieves muscle and soft tissue pain
Massage increases the vascularity and nutrition to various muscles
Massage helps muscles recover more quickly from exertion and fatigue
Massage supports increased work capacity and encourages your metabolism
Massage helps to wasting from injury and paralysis

Skeletal system

Massage reduces joint strain and compression through releasing tight muscles and tendons
Massage increases the ease and efficiency of your movements
Massage helps to increase the retention of nitrogen, phosphorous, and sulphur in the bones and this aids in fracture healing
Massage improves the circulation and nutrition of the joints and helps increase range of joint movement

Circulatory system

Massage enhances the elimination of the waste products of metabolism
Massage helps to reduce any swelling and contusions
Massage increases the number of red blood cells in circulation
Massage has the overall effect of lowering your blood pressure and reduces pulse rate
Massage facilitates tissue healing through the enhancement of circulation
Massage increases tissue fluid and assists lymphatic circulation thus reducing swelling and enhancing the immune and filtering activities of this system
Massage increases both venous and lymphatic flow
Massage increases the nutrition of the tissues via an increased exchange of fluids and materials
Massage, via the mechanical actions on the soft tissues, produces a dilation of the blood vessels, which helps to improve circulation
Massage helps to reduce the lack of blood and by direct pressure and stimulation reduces pain due to the irritation of nerves that control circulatory system

Nervous system

Massage relaxes the muscles
It helps to re-establish proper tonus through its effect on the neuromuscular reflex pathways
Massage is known to affect the neurotransmitters of the brain and increase endorphin secretion in particular by means of natural painkillers
Massage can help reduce nerve entrapment through the release of soft tissue or muscular binding
Massage can reduce nerve root compression caused by muscular tension
Massage can have a sedative, stimulating or even exhausting effect on the nervous system depending on the type and length of treatment given

Excretory system

Massage can facilitate elimination through the large intestines by mechanically stimulating peristalsis and improving tone
Massage stimulates peristalsis and can reduce cramping or spasm in the digestive tract.
Massage aides the normal movement throughout alimentary canal assisting with many dysfunctions through its stress releasing effects
Massage increases the excretion of fluids and waste products from protein metabolism, inorganic phosphorous and salt in normal individuals

Skin

Massage helps to reduce tension in the skin and adjoining tissues as well as increasing its circulation and improve its nutrition
Massage depending on the medium used to apply it can help to re-moisturize, and soften dry skin
Massage can help with some skin conditions like eczema

Respiratory system

Massage deepens and normalizes the breathing pattern
Massage can help to relieve congestion from respiratory organs like lungs through percussive and compressive movements
Massage increases the action of the heart, stimulating the blood flow to different organs and peripheral vascular system, helping with the elimination of waste and the absorption of oxygen

Yoga Can Help Manage Holiday Stress

2010-11-30T23:54:17Z

Dr. Sodhi's Newsletter

We are now in the mist of what can be the most hectic part of the holiday season. We just enjoyed the thanksgiving holiday and now we’re on the run to find that perfect gift for our friends and family. Compatibility is a major issue and we may find that we cannot get along with even our favorite relatives, creating stressful times. In this part of globe holidays are in winter, unlike Australia and New Zealand where December is the midsummer month. Cold weather and stress aggravates the Vata, which can further make you prone to anxiety. Cold weather also aggravates Kapha, which can make many people feel slow, sluggish, isolated or depressed. Holiday feasting on sweets will do more to imbalance Kapha which results in weight gain. Conversely, Vata will become wired, with variable energy, increased anxiety and fear.

Time tested yoga practices can provide hope for these issues. In a study released this year, teenagers with cancer and their parents were given yoga instruction, which resulted in a decrease in their anxiety scores.1 Even though the subjects were under the tremendous stress of dealing with cancer, they found yoga to be a positive experience.1 In another study published this year, 80 patients with chronic lower back pain (CLBP) were divided into two groups. Half were given physical therapy exercises. The other half were in a yoga group, receiving instruction on asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing practices), meditation and lectures on yoga philosophy. The yoga instruction resulted in better stress management and greater mobility improvement than the physical therapy exercises.

Members of the yoga group improved their perceived stress scores significantly more than the physical therapy group.2 Yoga group members also exhibited a 31.1% increase in right leg mobility in the straight leg raise, compared with 18.7% increase in the physical therapy group.2

One very simple way to release stress is the sighing breath: Take a deep breath in to full lung capacity and then hold for 3 seconds. Exhale out slowly with word HA. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 minutes, you will feel noticeably relaxed.

1. Thygeson MV, Hooke MC, Clapsaddle J, Robbins A, Moquist K. (2010). Peaceful play yoga: serenity and balance for children with cancer and their parents. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs. Sep-Oct;27(5):276-84. Epub 2010 Jul 16.

2.Tekur P, Chametcha S, Hongasandra RN, Raghuram N. (2010). Effect of yoga on quality of life of CLBP patients: A randomized control study. Int J Yoga [serial online] [cited 2010 Nov 17];3:10-7. Available from: http://www.ijoy.org.in/text.asp?2010/3/1/10/66773

Coffee: Not So Bad After All? - By Dr. Virender Sodhi

2010-11-26T18:57:15Z

The recorded history of coffee goes as far back as the thirteenth century, although the bean’s origin remains unclear. What is clear is the impact that coffee can have on our daily life, especially living in Seattle; a city that is widely known for its “coffee culture.” Coffee has become interwoven into our daily lives and social activities: it is what wakes some of us up in the mornings, it offers an occasion for us to get together with friends and chat and keeps us going during a long night of studying. However, most people would laugh if you told them that they may reap benefits to their health by drinking a cup of coffee.

There is much more to coffee than just the dark, aromatic drink that we know and love. Inside is a complex mixture composed of dozens of chemicals. When ingested, it is responsible for a number of biological processes including increased antioxidant activity, anti-carcinogenic activity and anti-mutagenic activity. The drink’s anti-cancer effects are mainly due to a compound contained in coffee called polyphenol. Polyphenols can be found circulating in increased levels in your blood plasma after consuming coffee. It is because of these effects that consuming coffee in moderation, 1-2 cups daily, may be beneficial to your health.

The Harvard School of Public Health recently released an observational study which concluded that coffee consumption reduced the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, gallstones, liver cancer, and cirrhosis. In this study, the majority of negative effects of coffee consumption were related to increased caloric intake. Many people added cream, sugar or syrups to their coffee thus making it a high calorie beverage. It also important to note that, although inconclusive, some studies have shown that high intakes of coffee during pregnancy can lead to increased risk of late miscarriage and stillbirth.

Before you reach for that cup of coffee, there are also some other considerations you should factor in. It is important to be aware of the recommendations concerning the method of preparation, amount that is being consumed and if you have any preexisting risk factors that could interact with coffee consumption such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia or cardiac arrhythmia.

An important concern in regards to consuming coffee is the ability for it to raise your cholesterol. Using the proper method of preparation, you can help avoid this issue. The lipid content of coffee varies depending on the method you choose. Coffee brews filtered through filter paper contained less than 7 mg lipids, while coffee prepared by boiling without filtering and espresso coffee reached 60-160 mg lipids/150-ml cup. Coffee brew filtered through a metal screener contained 50 mg lipids/150-ml cup.

The New England Journal of Medicine reported the effects of coffee preparations (filtering and boiling) on blood serum lipid levels over a 12-week trial using 107 young adults. Participants consumed 4-6 cups of either boiled coffee, filtered coffee or no coffee. They found that drinking filtered coffee does not affect serum lipid levels. The consumption of boiled coffee had an effect on blood serum cholesterol levels amounting to a mean net increase of 10 percent of the base-line level.

Of course it is important to keep in mind that coffee is not without its faults. The principal active ingredient in coffee is caffeine. Caffeine is a mild but nevertheless addictive stimulant and has been found to have mild cardiovascular effects. These effects include elevated heart rate and blood pressure. The majority of side effects increase in severity with heavy consumption. A common symptom people experience is tachycardia after drinking coffee. This can cause high anxiety because people think they are having a heart attack and may unnecessarily admit themselves to the emergency room. The most commonly reported symptom after drinking coffee is increased incidence of heartburn. In individuals who have been diagnosed with certain conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and gallstones, coffee drinking is highly discouraged.

If you are going to drink coffee, it is best to make sure that it is prepared using paper filters to help remove lipids from the coffee, thus eliminating the hypercholesterolemic effect. If your goal is to receive the health benefits of coffee, remember that moderation is always best. From an Ayurvedic standpoint, coffee may be beneficial to one dosha and detrimental to another. For example, coffee is not the best option for a Vata. Vata people are prone to anxiety, fear and hyperactivity so the stimulating effects of coffee may be overwhelming. On the other hand, a morning cup of coffee for a Kapha may help them to get moving more quickly. As for Pitta, coffee might be okay but they tend to have more digestive complaints and ulcers because of the element of fire in Pitta so it is important to keep this in mind. Exercising moderation and having insight into your dosha type will help you make an informed decision regarding your coffee consumption.

References

1 George, S. (2008). A perception on health benefits of coffee. Crit Rev Food Sci, 48(5), 464-468.

2 Possible Health Benefits of Coffee. (n.d.). Harvard School of Public Health - HSPH. Retrieved October 20, 2010, from http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/multimedia/Flash/2010/coffee/benefits.html

3 Pirich, C. (1993). Coffee, lipoproteins and cardiovascular disease. Wien Klin Wochenschr, 105(1), 3-6.

4 Ratnayake, W. (1993). Lipid content and composition of coffee brews prepared by different methods. Food Chem Toxicol, 91(4), 263-269.

5 Bak, A. (1989). The effect on serum cholesterol levels of coffee brewed by filtering or boiling. N Eng J Med, 321(21), 1432-1437.

6 Riksen, N. (2011). The cardiovascular effects of methylxanthines. Handb Exp Pharmacol, 200, 413-437.

7 Noordzij, M. (2005). Blood pressure response to chronic intake of coffee and caffeine: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Hypertens, 23(5), 921-928.

8 Boekema, P. (1999). Coffee and gastrointestinal function: facts and fiction. A review. Scand J Gastroenterol Suppl, 230, 35-39.

De-stress and Focus with Ayurvedic Healing Formulas Rejuvenating for Everyone from Students and Parents to CEOs

2010-09-01T17:53:43Z

REDMOND, WA (August 31, 2010) – It’s time for students (and parents) to hit the books and for many CEOs and employees to augment the bottom line before year-end. This not only increases day-to-day responsibilities, but also bumps up the stress response. According to Ayurveda, the ancient system of healing from India, stress is the initial cause of 90 percent of disease.
“If we can decrease our stress through meditation, diet, lifestyle, yoga, exercise and supportive nutritional herbs, we are well on our way to better overall health, increased focus for dealing with life’s ups and downs and a renewed perspective, where we see challenges as opportunities,” explains Dr. Virender Sodhi, Ayurvedic MD and naturopathic physician.

Dr. Sodhi is also co-founder of R-U-VED Inc., one of the premier Ayurvedic Herbal companies in the U.S. with a focus on quality herbal formulas that blend ancient principles of Ayurvedic medicine with the latest scientific technology. He recommends the following Ayurvedic rejuvenating formulas, known as adaptogens, to protect against stress and improve immunity, vitality and even longevity:

Ashwagandha- Also known as “Indian ginseng” ashwagandha can calm the mind, relieve nervous exhaustion, enhance cognition, stabilize the mind function, and promote sleep. “Ashwagandha offers excellent support for overworked students, parents and career-driven individuals,” adds Dr. Sodhi. R-U-VED’s ashwagandha is made with a patented extraction method to ensure effectiveness. It retails for $17.80 for 60 vegetarian capsules.

Memoren™ - An exclusive R-U-VED formula, Memoren contains several well known Ayurvedic herbs that aid in mental clarity, learning enhancement and stress relief, ideal for everyone from students to CEOs. The proprietary formula includes gotu kola, shankpushpi, ashwagandha, bacopa and gingko, which when combined offer an extremely effective formula for staying on top of your game in a calm, effective manner. The product retails for $29 for 60 vegetarian capsules.

Both formulas are available at natural foods retailers nationwide or at www.ruved.net. Founded in 1988, R-U-VED is the only Ayurvedic herb company in the U.S. owned and operated by practicing Ayurvedic physicians, who also cultivate the medicinal herbs offered to ensure the utmost in quality and safety standards. Wildcrafted and/or organic, all R-U-VED herbs are manufactured in an ISO and GMP approved facility. R-U-VED also offers formulations for cardiovascular, digestive, elimination, liver, metabolic, women’s health and more. R-U-VED is a division of Ayush Herbs, and is located at 2239 152nd Avenue NE; Redmond, WA 98052. Contact the company at (800) 925-1371 (800) 925-1371 or visit www.ruved.net.

Step to the Right of Your Left Hemisphere

2010-07-27T23:38:40Z

I first watched this presentation from Jill Bolte Taylor in late 2008. Since I initially viewed this reenactment of her personal experience with a stroke I have returned to relive the event countless times. Each time I revisit the presentation for a different perspective and each time I come away with a new level of awareness on the fractal connectedness of life as we know it.

My path in life has offered many different types of environments and role models for learning. I seek/explore and find myself fascinated by how difficult it can be for some people to connect. So many passive humans that find contentment in their own disconnect. This disconnect trickling into my connectedness has been my latest challenge. How do I engage in my life practices and knowledge and include those around me that live their lives in a state of disconnect? Buddhist practices offer many tools for this. I find myself leveraging them on a daily basis.

H.H. The 14th Dalai Lama

Sometimes one creates a dynamic impression by saying something, and sometimes one creates as significant an impression by remaining silent.

Through violence, you may 'solve' one problem, but you sow the seeds for another.

One has to try to develop one's inner feelings, which can be done simply by training one's mind. This is a priceless human asset and one you don't have to pay income tax on!

First one must change. I first watch myself, check myself, then expect changes from others.

I myself feel, and also tell other Buddhists that the question of Nirvana will come later. There is not much hurry.

If in day to day life you lead a good life, honesty, with love, with compassion, with less selfishness, then automatically it will lead to Nirvana.

Ayush Herbs Retains On the Horizon for Public Relations Effort

2010-07-13T22:15:28Z

A leader in Ayurvedic herbal formulations answers increasing consumer demand for high quality herbal supplements

REDMOND, WA (July 13, 2010) - Ayush Herbs Inc, manufacturer of wildcrafted, organic and doctor-formulated Ayurvedic herbal products since 1988, has retained On the Horizon Communications to handle its public relations effort.
On the Horizon will not only increase the visibility of Ayush Herbs and its subsidiary companies R-U-VED Herbs and Ayush Pet Products through editorial outreach, but will also help the company to educate consumers on the life-enhancing benefits of Ayurveda, which literally translates to the “science of life.”
All Ayush Herbs products are based on the principles of Ayurveda, one of the earliest forms of medicine, dating back to India 5,000 years ago. Based on the immutable laws of nature, Ayurveda offers a natural, balanced approach to health, and views each person as a unique, complex individual.

Link to full article

Dr. Sodhi's Ayurvedic News - June 3rd, 2010

2010-06-06T14:47:32Z

Ancient Science Validated by Modern Research
J Transl Med. 2008; 6: 48.Whole genome expression and biochemical correlates of extreme constitutional types defined in Ayurveda By Bhavana Prasher, Sapna Negi, Shilpi Aggarwal, Amit K Mandal, Tav P Sethi,1 Shailaja R Deshmukh, Sudha G Purohit, Shantanu Sengupta, Sangeeta Khanna, Farhan Mohammad, Gaurav Garg, Samir K Brahmachari, Indian Genome Variation Consortium, and Mitali Mukerji
Ayurveda describes seven broad constitution types: Vata, Pitta, Kapha, Vat Pitta, Pitta Kapha, Vata Kapha and Vata Pitta and Kapha (Prakritis), each with a varying degree of predisposition to different diseases. Amongst these, the three most contrasting types, Vata, Pitta, Kapha, are the most vulnerable to diseases. In the realm of modern predictive medicine, efforts are being directed towards capturing disease phenotypes with greater precision for successful identification of markers for prospective disease conditions. In this study, scientists tried to explore whether or not the different constitution types as described in Ayurveda have molecular correlates. The peripheral blood samples of patients were analyzed for genome wide expression levels, biochemical and hematological parameters. Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway based analysis was carried out on differentially expressed genes to explore if there were significant enrichments of functional categories among Prakriti types. Results from the study showed that individuals from the three most contrasting constitutional types exhibit striking differences with respect to biochemical and hematological parameters and at genome wide expression levels. Notably, the components of the lipid profiles like triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, VLDL, LDL, and LDL/HDL ratio, common risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, were higher in Kapha when compared to Pitta and Vata males. Additionally, Kapha also had lower levels of HDL when compared to Vata. The levels of serum uric acid, recently considered to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality, were also found to be elevated in Kapha. In addition, GGPT, SGPT, and serum Zinc were found to be high in Kapha. Serum prolactin and prothrombin time were high in Vata in comparison to Kapha and/or Pitta. On the other hand, hematological parameters like hemoglobin, PCV, and RBC count differed significantly amongst all three groups; Pitta males showed high values in comparison to Vata and/or Kapha. In females, only 4 parameters among all those measured differed among the groups with Pitta showing the highest levels in all cases. Phosphorus level varied significantly among groups with Pitta > Kapha > Vata. Pitta differed from Kapha in number of basophils and zinc levels and from Vata in copper levels. Functional categories of genes showing differential expression among Prakriti types were significantly enriched in core biological processes like transport, regulation of cyclin dependent protein kinase activity, immune response and regulation of blood coagulation. A significant enrichment of housekeeping, disease-related and hub genes were observed in these extreme constitution types.
Dr. Sodhi’s Comments:
Ayurvedic medicine has very special psychosomatic body types, which are based in five elements: ether, air, fire, water and earth.
Vata people usually have these characteristics: • generally thin and do not gain weight easily • known to be quick and active • energy levels fluctuate, and come in bursts • lively and enthusiastic • tend to be talkative and talk quickly • have difficulty memorizing things and remembering them later • usually have difficulty falling asleep or getting a sound night’s sleep • mind is restless, yet imaginative. • are not good at making decisions • prone to anxiety and worries • have dry skin, more so in winter • have cold hands and feet • tend to have gas or constipation • uncomfortable in cold weather • irregular eating and sleeping habits • prone to arthritis • prone to neurological diseases.
Pitta characteristics include: • do not tolerate hot weather well • sweat easily • can’t tolerate delaying or skipping a meal and have good appetite • have fine, straight, light, blond, red graying early hair or balding • bowel movements rather on the loose side • like cold drinks and foods • cannot tolerate hot spicy food • are very organized, meticulous, perfectionist, strong willed • impatient • tendencies towards anger and irritability • critical of self and others • tendencies to have inflammatory diseases like gastritis, appendicitis, colitis, etc.
Kapha characteristics are: • gain weight easily; losing weight is difficult • can skip meals easily • tendency to have congestion, mucus or sinus problems • love to sleep in • have thick and oily hair and a smooth and soft complexion • large body frame with heavy bones • slow digestion • steady energy and strong stamina • sensitive to damp weather • tend to be slow, methodical and relaxed, usually calm • slow learner but good retainer • do not like responsibility • prone mucous diseases sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, asthma, heart diseases and more Understanding your body type will help you understand your weaknesses and strong points. We can understand each other better and create harmonious relationships, live longer without any diseases. I have been using lab investigations for many years and developed some understanding of this; now, it is interesting to know that we can see what Ayurvedic philosophy has taught for years through phenotypes and genotypes.
Panchakarma, The Natural Detoxification Process Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine September, 2002 - VOL. 8, No. 5, September 2002 Lipophil-mediated reduction of toxicants in humans: an evaluation of an Ayurvedic detoxification procedure By John B Fagan, PhD; Robert E Herron, PhD Day to day, we are exposed to a vast array of chemicals and toxic substances. Our body can usually detoxify them and eliminate them from our body through the skin, intestines and/or kidneys. But sometimes due to an overburdening of chemicals and toxic substances in the body, they are stored in adipose tissue (fat) as an inert form. Toxic substances that are soluble in fat tissue are called lipophilic. Two examples of these lipophilic toxicants are dichlorodiphenyldi- chloroethylene (DDE) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and they have been associated with hormone disruption, immune system suppression, reproductive disorders, several types of cancer, and other diseases.
Traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine, Panchakarma treatments have been used for centuries as a means to eliminate toxins from the body. A cross-sectional and longitudinal evaluation was undertaken in southeastern Iowa to evaluate the role of Panchakarma in eliminating these toxins from the body. The study had 48 participants who had undertaken Panchakarma, and were com- pared to 40 control subjects. In the prospective, longitudinal evaluation, serum levels were measured in 15 subjects before and after they underwent the detoxification procedure.
Results from the study showed that nine PCB congeners and eight pesticides were found. Those that received the treatment had PCB levels significantly lower than controls. Trans-nonachlor (TNC), p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), oxychlordane, and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) levels were also markedly lower in the detoxification group. In the longitudinal evaluation, after treatment, mean levels of PCBs (46%) and ß-HCH (58%) declined significantly in the subjects. The results of the study suggest that Panchakarma detoxification may be effective in reducing body burdens of fat-soluble toxicants.
Dr. Sodhi’s Comments:
Panchakarma treatments are very safe and effective. In normal conditions it will take the body 20 years to get rid of the PCBs and reduce beta-HCH levels. I have been performing Panchakarma treatments for almost 30 years in my clinic. We have seen incredible improvements in patients’ health with reversal of diseases. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, diabetes, heart disease, malignant hypertension, kidneys disease, heavy metal toxicity and many chronic diseases have gone into remission. I also perform Panchakarma treatments as an adjuvant to chemotherapy and radiation treatments in cancer and have had excellent results. Ayurvedic philosophy states that we get diseases when our body has a high toxic load, which interferes with the body’s normal inherent intelligence. Panchakarma treatments eliminate the high toxic load, thereby allowing natural intelligence to kick in and heal.
Influence of Yoga and Cancer Effects of Yoga on the Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice Vol. 16, No. 2, May 2010, pg. 60-63. By Özlem Ülger. A ,and Naciye Vardar Yağlıa
This study sought to investigate the effects of yoga on the quality of life in patients with breast cancer.
Twenty patients between 30 and 50 years of age that had undergone treatment for breast cancer were included in the study. The physical characteristics of the patients were recorded and general physiotherapy assessments performed. Volunteers participated in eight sessions of a yoga program. The program included warming and breathing exercises, asanas, relaxation in supine position, and meditation.
The pre- and post-yoga quality of life assessments for the patients were conducted using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Patients' stress levels were assessed using the STAI-I and STAI-II anxiety inventory. Their satisfaction levels about the yoga program were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS).
It was found that the patients' quality of life scores after the yoga program were better than scores obtained before the yoga program (p < 0.05). After the yoga sessions, there was a statistically significant decrease in their STAI-I (measuring the reactions of anxiety) scores and STAI-II (measuring the permanence of anxiety) scores (p < 0.05). The satisfaction score concerning the yoga program was considerably increased after the yoga program (p < 0.05). It was concluded that yoga is valuable in helping to achieve relaxation and diminish stress. It also helps cancer patients perform daily and routine activities, and increases the quality of life in cancer patients.
Dr. Sodhi’s Comments:
Yoga is a very effective and easy way to alleviate anxiety. I give recommendations of various yoga exercises and breathing exercises for every health condition. I believe that if we eat right, exercise, reduce stress and do yoga, this is good insurance and protection against many diseases. Yoga is very safe and can be combined with any therapy or treatment modality. Old Spice and Pancreatic Cancer Phase II trial of Curcumin in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Clin Cancer Res. 2008 Jul 15;14(14):4491-9. By Dhillon N, Aggarwal BB, Newman RA, Wolff RA, Kunnumakkara AB, Abbruzzese JL, Ng CS, Badmaev V, Kurzrock R.
Pancreatic cancer is almost always lethal, and the only U.S. Food and Drug Administration- approved therapies for it, gemcitabine and erlotinib, produce objective responses in <10% of patients. Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center undertook a study on the clinical biological effects of Curcumin (Turmeric), a dietary ingredient that has activity against advanced pancreatic cancer. In both pre-clinical trials and clinical trials, curcumin has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), a cancer-causing molecule. Patients were given 8 grams Curcumin daily by mouth. Serum blood markers of inflammation (cytokine levels for interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-1 receptor antagonists and peripheral blood mononuclear cell expression of NF-kappaB and cyclooxygenase-2 ) were recorded both before and after the Curcumin administration. Twenty-five patients were enrolled, and 21 finished the study. Two patients showed clinical response. One had ongoing stable disease for >18 months; interestingly, an additional patient had a brief, but marked, tumor regression (73%) accompanied by significant increases (4- to 35-fold) in serum cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-1 receptor antagonists). No toxicities were observed. Given the prognosis of pancreatic cancer, the results from this study are a big step forward. The author of the study noted that Curcumin bioavailability was the limiting factor for better results.
Dr. Sodhi’s Comments:
In this study, four patients out of 21 showed significant improvement, which is quite impressive as compared to the results of traditional treatments which are quite expensive and with tons of side effects. Pancreatic cancer is almost a death sentence; most patients die with few months of the diagnosis. Turmeric is such a benign and inexpensive treatment. Turmeric is my favorite spice/culinary herb and I prescribe turmeric for a number of ailments. If you have any inflamma- tion in the body, nothing is more potent than turmeric to block inflammation, as turmeric blocks inflammation on so many fronts. Curcumonoids, the yellow pigmented bioflavonoid in turmeric, is considered to be the active principle. The problem is that these curcumonids are not very bio-available, as they are lipophilic (soluble in fat) molecules. Traditionally turmeric was used in conjunction with other spices and fats like ghee (butter oil) and coconut oil, which helps its absorption and helps it even cross blood brain barrier (where it could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease). Recently I have designed a product, where we have attached the curcumonids to medium chain triglycerides of coconut (MCTs), and added three spices – black pepper, long pepper, ginger along with CoQ 10. CoQ10 is also a lipophilic molecule and is not absorbed without fat. This preparation is very bio-available and absorbs readily in body. Lifestyle and Cancer: Host and environmental factors predisposing to cancer development Gan To Kagaku Ryoho. 2010 Apr;37(4):571-6. By Kono S.
Epidemiological studies have consistently found that heavy drinking can increase the risk of liver, head, neck, and esophageal cancers. Even moderate drinking has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer. At the 2008 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) annual meeting in San Diego, two new studies were presented that shed additional light on the alcohol-breast cancer connection, including one study that linked alcohol consumption with a significantly increased risk of the most common type of breast cancer.
An article presented here adds to data of how lifestyles can significantly affect the occurrence of various types of cancer. The article finds that epidemiological evidence, particularly regarding the cancer pattern in Japanese and Koreans in the United States, indicates that lifestyle factors contribute substantially to the development of common cancers such as gastric, colorectal, breast and prostate cancers. Sex and age are important determinants of many cancers, and the variation in cancer incidence according to these factors is also indicative of the role of environmental factors. Cancer of first-degree relatives (or parental cancer) was related to correlate with an approximately 2-fold increased risk for most site-specific cancers. It was roughly estimated in this article that infectious agents contributed to 20% of incident cases of cancer in Japan.
Similarly, a recent cohort study in Japan found a significant association of smoking with incidence of male and female cancers. Among other lifestyle factors, alcohol consumption and obesity have provided convincing evidence as factors that increase the risks of various cancers. The increased risks of colorectal cancer and breast cancer were associated with alcohol. Among dietary factors, red meat and aflatoxins are considered as factors that increase risks of colorectal and liver cancer. Vegetables and fruits probably decrease the risk of cancer at various organ sites, and calcium specifically decreases the risk of colorectal cancer. Evidence for increased risk of gastric cancer associated with salted foods is judged to be not sufficient, although a high-salt diet enhanced rates of gastric cancer in animals infected with Helicobacter pylori. However, excess salt intake has been consistently shown to cause more serious cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Sodhi’s Comments:
Alcohol use is very prevalent in most of the world. Unfortunately alcohol does not like our human body. There are some studies in which very moderate use of alcohol in males does translate to some beneficial effects for the heart, but for females, it can be poison. One to two glasses of wine consumed per week has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Studies found that variants in two genes involved in metabolizing alcohol – ADH1B and ADH1C-raised a postmeno- pausal woman drinker's risk for breast cancer by up to twofold. There is no safe limit of alcohol use in females. An occasional use of alcohol for ceremonial purposes may not be bad.
Aflatoxins are toxins produced by a fungus called Aspergillus, are known to be one of the most cancer causing toxins. A healthy liver is able to detoxify aflatoxins effectively, unfortunately our livers are under stress from alcohol, chemical, prescription drugs, Tylenol, ibuprofen, fried foods and more. Aspergillus grows on peanuts, almonds, pistachios, walnuts, coconuts, brazil nuts cotton seeds, sunflower seeds, maize, sorghum, pearl millet, rice, wheat and even on spices like chilli peppers, black pepper, turmeric, ginger and coriander. Interestingly use of carrots, parsnips, celery, parsley reduces the cancerous effects of aflatoxins. Another way to avoid aflatoxins is to buy fresh local produce. A vegetarian diet with an increased intake of fruits and vegetables, yoga, breathing exercises, stress reduction and avoiding chemicals from all sources have repeatedly shown to cut down the risk of cancer. Salt intake and cardiovascular diseases have been studied for many years. Recently we have developed Wright Salt, which is a combination of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride and minerals. In a long term Swedish study, the Wright Salt has been found to cut cardiovascular diseases by 60%. Taking 1000 mg of calcium from a good source is good prevention from colon cancer and osteoporosis.
Dr.Sodhi’ Ayurvedic news is registered trade mark.The copyright of the article Dr.Sodhi’s Ayurvedic News is owned by Dr. Virender Sodhi. Permission to republish in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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