Ayurvera

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Weekend 02 Living Body

02 1

“It is more important to know what sort of person

“The treatments themselves do not ‘cure’ the condition,

has a disease than to know they simply restore the what sort of disease a

-Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.) 02 2

body’s self-healing ability.” -Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

person has.”

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

contents The dosha pentads The Vata pentad The Pitta pentad The Kaph pentad Dosha pentad exercise

07 08 10 12 14

Application of dosha Application of elements

16 17

Subtle tissues Subtle channels Metabolic wastes Digestive fire Cooking and its effects

18 24 30 34 44

Metabolic toxins Ayurvedic nutrition Food practices

46 52 54

Exercises Food energetics Home remedies Healing teas Article Energies of the universe

57 82 85 86 98

02 3

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02 4

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

your daily moment of zen 1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me, either. Just leave me the hell alone. 2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tyre. 3. It’s always darkest before the dawn. So if you’re going to steal your neighbour’s newspaper, that’s the time to do it. 4. Sex is like air. It’s not important unless you aren’t getting any. 5. Don’t be irreplaceable. If you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted. 6. Always remember you’re unique. Just like anyone else. 7. Never test the depth of the water with both feet. 8. It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others. 9. If you think nobody cares if you’re alive, try missing a couple of car payments. 10. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you’re a mile away and you have their shoes. 11. If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you. 12. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day. 13. If you lend someone $20, and never see that person again, it was probably worth it. 14. Don’t squat with your spurs on. 15. Some days you are the bug, some days you are the windshield. 16. Don’t worry. It only seems kinky the first time. 17. Good judgement comes from bad experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgement. 18. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket. 19. Timing has an awful lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance. 20. A closed mouth gathers no food. 21. Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.

02 5

Test Your Doshas 1. Doshas are …………………………………………… 2. Every cell is operated by all three ………………………… 3. Each dosha has …………………………… main branches 4. ……… dosha is more important, as it is wisdom and movement 5. Pitta and ……………… follow ……………… dosha 6. Every function in our body is the result of …………………

8. Dosha is one of the several …………………… in Ayurveda 9. Doshas represent …………, ………… and ……………

02 6

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7. Dosha is applied in various ………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

pentad

dosha

02 7

Praana

Udaana

‘Pra’ = primary or major. ‘Ana’ = to move.

‘Ud’ = upward ‘Ana’ = to move.

The cranium is the seat.

Chest is the seat.

Governs the intake of knowledge. Determines our inspiration or positive spirit in life. Connects us with our inner self. Constitutes the brain and nervous system. Governs and co-ordinates the mind, heart and consciousness.

It moves around the nasal, navel and throat region. Is responsible for memory, will and effort. Gives us the power to transcend the outer world. Gives us various psychic powers. Governs coughing, spitting, vomiting and belching. Governs self-expression and aspirations in life.

The leading air.

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02 8

Upward moving air.

The Vata - Pentad

Samaana

Vyaana

Apaana

‘Sama’ = same, equal or horrizontal. ‘Ana’ = to move.

‘Vi’ = peculiar, to distribute. ‘Ana’ = to move.

‘Apa’ = downward, away. ‘Ana’ = to move.

Digestive organs are the seat.

Heart is the seat.

The large bowel & pelvis are the seats.

Force behind digestion. Force behind metabolism. Regulates all juices for digestion and metabolism. Recharges cellular energy. Balances the body by providing suitable nutrients.

Governs adduction and abduction. Governs expansion and contraction of body parts. Governs locomotion. Governs opening and closing. Governs the voluntary and involuntary movements.

The bladder, genitals, thighs & other pelvic organs. Governs reproductive system. Governs hormonal functions. Governs excretion of urine and faeces. Governs the large intestine. Acts as a plug.

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The equalising air.

Relative Position Udaana Samaana – Praana – Vyaana Apaana

Diffusive / pervasive air.

Movements Ascend Equilize – Control – Circulate Descend

Downward directing Vayu.

Functions Creativity Absorb – Intake – Circulate Excrete

02 9

Paachaka

Ranjaka

‘Pac’ = to digest, ‘ka’ = to act.

‘Ranj’ = to dye, to excite or glow. ‘ka’ = to act.

The seat is small intestine.

The seat is digestive organs.

Breaks down food into essence and waste. Strengthens and protects all other pittas. Good pAcaka pitta helps up know what, when and how much to eat.

Tissue and cellular transformations.

Ranjaka: When a dhaatu is transformed into the next one, it gets a new colour, texture, form and functions due to ranjaka pitta. The function of ranjaka pitta is ‘rasa ranjanam’. Here ‘rasa’ stands for all tissues. ‘Ranjanam’ means colouring or exciting the transformation. Change of colour occurs when there is biochemical / structural change. Hence rasa ranjanam is metabolism

Pitta & Agni: This topic was discussed in detail by the masters as they are partially similar and different. A typical metabolic event in our body is composed of two stages, namely: breaking down of the nutrients & transformation of the nutrients. Primarily, pitta is involved with the breaking down of nutrients. Thus it facilitates an environment for the nutrients to transform.

The fire of digestion.

Paachaka is the first consideration in the treatment of Pitta, as this is responsible both for building up our tissues and for destroying any pathogens that have entered the body with food. Paachaka is digestive awareness and discrimination. People with good paachaka pitta know what, when and how much to eat. They are in tune with their digestive system.

(Digestive organs are: Liver, spleen, pancreas, stomach, small intestine etc.)

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02 10

The fire of metabolism.

The Pitta - Pentad

Saadhaka

Aalocaka

Bhraajaka

‘Sadh’ = to accomplish or to realise. ‘ka’ means ‘to act’.

‘lok’ meaning ‘to look’. ‘ka’ means ‘to act’.

‘Bhraj’ = to shine, sparkle. ‘ka’ means ‘to act’.

The seat is brain & heart (‘hrdayam’).

The seat is the retina.

Awareness, intelligence and selfconsciousness. On a lower level, worldly pleasures, wealth and prestige. On a higher level, the spiritual goals.

Vision & perception. Reception and assimilation of light from the external world.

The seat is the skin. Maintaining complexion of skin. Expressing life / energy.

The word “pitta” is derived from ‘dong avaghantane’ (breaking down) and ‘deng paripaalane’ (looking after). This means the function of pitta is to look after life by breaking down nutrients. “Agni” is used in a trasformatory sense, a messenger or digestive faculty. Agni is a factor that brings about transformation, Interestingly, many authors -ancient and modern- use the terms agni and pitta as mutually interchangeable. This is because both are hot in quality and

potency, and both are involved in all stages of digestion and metabolism. There is no transformation without these factors. So they are partially similar. It is important to remember, the doshas should be taken primarily as ‘functional units’ or organising principles’, rather than a physical substance. Of course, ‘dosha’ can be applied to any physical and non-physical ideas and substances. But ‘agni’ is definitely a physical substance.

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The fire of passion or ambition.

The fire of vision.

The fire of expression.

This is why, when scriptures deal with the imbalances of ‘agni’ it says ‘aggravated pitta results in teekshna-agni’ (hyperdigestion). This statement clearly states that agni and pitta are two different concepts. Also when scriptures describe the ‘healthy’, they say: healthy people have their doshas in balance, agni in balance and so forth. Here they have separately mentioned dosha and agni, indicating that they are different.

02 11

Avalambaka

Kledaka

‘Avalamb’ to rest upon, depend on.

‘Klid’ = to moisten or to soften.

The seats are heart, lungs.

The seat is stomach.

The actions of the other Kaphas in the body depend on this branch of kapha. Foundation of all dhaatus, especially the first one, ‘rasa’. Protects the heart, lungs and throat by creating mucus and fluid lining. Makes us feel stable in our chest and heart. When kapha is out of balance, we feel it in our chest and throat, in the form of increased or decreased mucus. This is the seat of water and earth from which we get stability and flexibility.

Responsible for the liquefaction of food through alkaline secretions from the mucous lining in the stomach. It is a good medium which protects the gastro intestinal tract.

Supporting kapha.

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02 12

Moistening Kapha.

The Kapha - Pentad

Bodhaka

Tarpaka

Shleshaka

‘Budh’ = to know, perceive.

‘Trp’ = Satiating, satisfying.

‘Shlish’ = To embrace.

The seats are mouth, tongue, salivary glands.

The seat us cranium. Brain and cerebrospinal fluid

The seat is joints.

Informing Kapha.

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Gives perception of taste. Facilitates the communication in our body, in the mouth or in our cells. Until saliva secretes we can’t taste anything. Being an alkaline secretion, saliva is an example.

Satiating water.

Nourish all organs by lubricating. Protect our brain and nervous system. Yoga refers to this fluid as ‘amrt’ in treatises.

Embracing water.

Lubricates and stabilises the joints. Any shock-absorbing mechanism including bursae and synovial fluid.

02 13

SEAT

FUNCTION (BRIEF)

I NEED TO IMPROVE

V1. Praana

Cranium

Reception of nutrients, impressions Organising

V2. Udaana

Chest

Expression, effort, enthusiasm

Lifting

V3. Samaana

Small Intestine

Absorption, emotions

Balancing

V4. Vyaana

Heart

Circulation of energy, nutrients

Circulating

V5. Apaana

Large intestine

Elimination

Holding

P1. Paachaka

Stomach, s. Intestine

Digestion

Digestion

P2. Ranjaka

Liver, Spleen, Pancreas

Metabolism

Assimilation

P3. Saadhaka

Heart, brain

Drive, passion, purpose

Drive

P4. Aalochaka

Eyes

Vision

Vision

P5. Bhraajaka

Skin

Complexion

Expression

K1. Avalambaka

Thorax

Protects heart, lungs vital

Nourishment

K2. Kledaka

Stomach

Moistens food

Moistening

K3. Bodhaka

Tongue

(Taste) perception

Perception

K4. Tarpaka

Cranium

Protects vital organs

Satiation

K5. Shleshaka

Joints

Strengthens, lubricates

Embracing

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02 14

DOSHA -UNIT

The Dosha Pentad: exercise

Below are some easy examples of diseases and sub-doshas. Find out the main branch of each dosha that is involved in the symptoms of the given diseases. Please remember that every disease is linked to all doshas. Asthma What are the branches of Vata involved in this diseases? 1. Difficulty in breathing 2. Cyanosis, especially of lips, nails or extremities 3. Accumulation of mucus in the lungs due to accumulation of mucus in the stomach 4. Constipation, and relief or lessening of attack by treatment with medicated enema 5. Deep seated fear, which leads to attack

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Jaundice What are the branches of Pitta involved in this diseases? 1. Unusual revulsion for food 2. Yellowed skin due to bile pigments 3. Yellowed eyes 4. Presence of bile-derived compounds in the blood 5. Mental disorientation Rheumatic fever What are the branches of Kapha involved in this diseases? 1. A characteristic lesion with swollen, painful, tender, inflamed large joints 2. A thickly coated tongue 3. Nausea characterised by heaviness and dullness in the upper abdomen 4. Reduced sensory perception associated with delirium 5. Rheumatic pain with involvement of heart valves

02 15

Application of the concept ‘dosha’ Vata Ether-Air

Pitta Fire-Water

Kapha Water-Earth

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Qualities …………………………………… Constitution …………………………………… Physiology …………………………………… Stage/phase …………………………………… Colours …………………………………… Organs …………………………………… Systems

Physical excess

02 16

…………………………………… Physical depletion …………………………………… Mental excess …………………………………… Mental depletion ……………………………………

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……………………………………

Application of the concept ‘elements’ Ether Aakaasha

Air Vaayu

Fire Agni

Water Jala

Earth Prithwi

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Qualities ……………………… Constitution ……………………… Physiology ……………………… Stage/phase ……………………… Colours ……………………… Organs ……………………… Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Systems ……………………… Physical excess ………………………

Physical depletion ……………………… Mental excess ………………………

Mental depletion ………………………

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02 17

Test Your Tissues 1. The body is composed of seven …………………… 2. The term dhaatu is translated as …………………… 3. They are the seven …………… of a cell organelle. 4. They are formed by the five …………………………. 5. Each dhaatu has a different elemental ……………………. 6. Dhaatus metabolise into …………… , ………… and …………. 7. There are …………… and ………… dhaatus. 8. Fluid dhaatus ………………… solid dhaatus. 10. Dhaatus exist in the form of ………………………. A gross dhaatu is almost parallel to the modern concept of cells. Shareera

02 18

paramaanu is the term used by Caraka for a cell, meaning the smallest particle of the body.

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9. Doshas ……………… in dhaatus.

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d

02 19

Formation of dhaatus Three forces of nature (air, sun and moon) activate the functions of dhaatus.

shukra

majja

02 20

ojas

asthi



rasa

maamsa

medas

rakta Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754



food

Dhaatus in a nutshell Dhaatu 1. Rasa

Site Plasma

2. Rakta

Blood

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3. Maamsa Muscle 4. Medas

Fat

5. Asthi

Bone

6. Majja

Marrow

7. Shukra

Sperm, Ovum Site

Dhaatu

Function Nourishing Pleasing Invigoration Enlivening Plastering Cohesion Lubrication Oleation Support Holding Regeneration Refilling Creativity Procreation Function

By-products Breast milk & menstrual secretions Tendons & Vessels Muscle fat & six skin layers. Ligaments

Wastes Kapha (mucous secretions) Pitta (bile etc.) Deposits in orifices Sweat

Teeth

Nails & body hairs

Hair Nil

Lubricants of skin, eyes & faeces Nil

By-products

Wastes

02 21

Sigs of overgrowth

Signs of depletion

1. Rasa

Accumulation of saliva, mucus & phlegm, clogging, loss of appetite and nausea. Congestion, cysts and tumours

Dehydration, fatigue, intolerance to sound, tremors, palpitations, exhaustion, pain and emptiness in the heart.

2. Rakta

Rashes, abscesses, enlarged liver and spleen, hypertension, tumours, weak digestion, delirium, hot flushes, red / bleeding of eyes and urine. Swelling/tumours in the muscles / glands, obesity, enlarged liver, irritability and aggression. Impaired sexual virility. Females: fibroids / miscarriage. Obesity, fatigue, difficulty in breathing, sexual debility, thirst, hypertension, diabetes, poor longevity, sagging of thighs, belly and breasts. Fear /over attachment. Extra bones / teeth, bone growths, spurs, excessively large frame, pain in the joints, fear, anxiety and poor stamina. Arthritis.

Pallor, low pressure, desire for sour and cold food, looseness and dryness, loss of lustre, collapse of blood vessels and rough / cracked skin. Weight loss, emaciation, fatigue and looseness of the limbs, lack of co-ordination, fear, insecurity, and unhappiness. Fatigue, crackling of the joints, tired eyes, enlarged spleen, emaciation of the limbs and sunken abdomen, brittle / sensitive hair, nail, teeth and bones. Weariness, pain / looseness in the joints; brittle bones, weak teeth, hair, nails. Poor bone and teeth formation.

6. Majja

Heaviness of eyes, chronic eye disorders, deep sores in the limbs, and in the big joints, turbidity / infections in the eyes.

Weak / porous bones, pain in joints, dizziness, floaters, dark around the eyes, sexual debility, feeling empty & fearful.

7. Shukra

Over sexed > anger/violence, excessive reproductive fluids, calculus & prostatitis, ovarian/uterine cysts/polyps.

Lack of vigour / drive, fatigue, sterility / impotence, dry mouth, lower back pain, difficult ejaculation, blood in semen, fear, anxiety and hatred.

3. Maamsa

4. Medas

5. Asthi

02 22

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Dhaatu

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Dhaatu

How to increase

1. Rasa

Fluids, fruits, fruit juices, soups from tubers, sweet, sour and salty tastes and milk.

2. Rakta

Iron rich food like leafy vegetables molasses, black lemon, berries, spinaches, currants, grapes, carrots, beets.

3. Maamsa

Grains, nuts, legumes / pulses / lentils and meat.

4. Medas

Vegetable fats, dairy products (except buttermilk) & animal fats. Fats & lipids.

5. Asthi

Seeds, nuts and earth predominant foods. Minerals (calcium, zinc etc.).

6. Majja

Subtle oils/fats like butter, ghee, nuts and seeds. Many blood purifying / tonic herbs are also good.

7. Shukra

Sweet foods and drinks, dairy products, seeds and nuts.

Any imbalance affects all three doshas and dhaatus. For example, when heat increases it reduces vata and kapha, and increases pitta. So even a mild change in the system affects the doshas. Contaminated doshas can reach anywhere, and attack the organ if it is weak. But any imbalance will have a specific root in a dosha, dhaatu, srotas, mala or kala. Based on this we give it a name like a ‘kapha disease’, ‘pitta imbalance’ or a ‘vatic symptom’. A dosha may have a certain affinity to a particular tissue or vice versa. Here we are looking at the dosha-dhaatu relationship in diseases. Dhaatu is Duushya A dhaatu are also known as a duushya. Duushya means the substratum in which physiology happens. In this context all the physical components of the body fall under this category.

02 23

Test Your Srotas 1. The human body is composed of innumerable channels of varying …………… and ……………. 2. It is a system of …………………………………………. 3. ……………………… exist as channels for proper distribution of tissues and their nutrients. 4. Each tissue has its own ……………… and all ……………… are interconnected.

and ……………… wastes easily. 6. It is the body’s ……………………………………… system.

02 24

7. So both channel and its respective tissue have the same …………… Eg: The rasa-carrying channel is composed of Rasa dhaatu.

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5. …………………… help tissues get adequately ……………

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02 25

Srotas 3 channels to bring nourishment Praana To carry praana, the breath & life force. Primarily the respiratory system. Origin: heart, gastrointestinal tract & colon. Related to the praanic sheath of the body. Anna To carry food. Also called maha srotas. Mainly the digestive system. Origin: stomach. Jala To carry water. Regulate water metabolism. Fluid absorbing aspect of the digestive system. Origin: Palate & pancreas. Diabetes is a disease of this system. 7 channels to circulate tissues Rasa To carry rasa, the primary nutrients in the system. Similar to the lymphatic and circulatory system together. Origin: heart and vessels. It forms the primary network of channels in the body. Rasa is the medium in which all other tissues are suspended. Rakta To carry rakta. This relates to the circulatory system, including blood cells. Origin: Liver & spleen, wherein red blood cells are produced and destroyed. Maamsa To supply maamsa. Muscular system. Origin: Ligaments to which muscles are connected and skin. Medas To supply the medas (fat or adipose tissue). Origin: Kidneys and omentum (abdominal fat). Asthi To supply the asthi (bones / skeletal system). Origin: Adipose tissue & hips, (the largest bones). Majja To supply the majja (marrow and nerve tissue). Origin: Bones and joints. Shukra To supply shukra, the reproductive tissue. Origin: Testes or ovaries, wherein sperm and ovum are produced. Also connected to the prostrate in men and the uterus in women.

02 26

1 Special Channel Manas To carry thought or the mental system. Origin: Emotions from the previous birth and nervous system. All channels are the channels of the mind, or the mind connects all channels together. The mind needs channels but consciousness doesn’t. 2 hormonal channels in females Aaartava To carry different secretions of the female reproductive system. Origin: The uterus and ovaries. Sthanya To carry breast milk. It is treated as the subsystem of the artava channel. Origin: Uterus

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3 channels to eliminate waste Sveda To carry sweat (sveda) or the sebaceous system. Origin: Adipose tissue and hair follicles to which the sebaceous glands are connected. Mootra To carry urine or the urinary system. Origin: Bladder & kidneys, the organs of urination. Pureesha To carry feces. Origin: Colon and rectum, the organs of excretion.

Channel Causes of aggravation of channels Praana Food Water

Wrong posture & breathing, suppression of urges, dehydration, malnutrition, physical exertion while hungry, smoking, air pollution or excessive, loud talking. Overeating, under-eating, eating at the wrong time, unwholesome food and by the derangement of the digestive fire. Inappropriate food. Disobedience to the rules of eating. Overexposure to heat, dehydration, improperly digestion, alcohol.

Heavy, cold or mucusy food, overeating and excess worry. Excessive sweets or dairy products. Overheating / fermented food, excessive exposure to heat / sun, oily, hot, liquid food. Excessive food and drinks which cause exudation (abhiSyandi) in the tissues, too rich or heavy food or day sleep. Mainly those increasing Kapha, particularly heaviness, oiliness and dullness. Adipose Lack of exercise, day sleep, excessive fatty food, alcohol, processed food and sugars. Skeletal Overexertion, jerks, strain to bones and vata increasing activities. Excessive use of depleted diet, over processed food and malabsorption. Marrow Emotional trauma, physical or emotional violence, loud noise, a prolonged unbalanced diet. Crushing, dislocation or breaking of bones, by extreme pain and taking bad food combinations. Reprodu.. Overindulgence or suppression of sexual urges; wrong surgical practices. Exposure to excess heat or therapies including heat, radiation, exposure to intense chemicals etc.

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Plasma Blood Muscle

Sweat Urine Feces Mind

Excessive exposure to heat, food that is too hot / cold. Anger, fear / grief. Anything that promotes excessive sweating. Suppression of the urge to urinate. Improper intake of food and drinks, excessive sex, suppression of urge, excessive travel. Suppression; irreguluar eating. Inadequate water and fibre intake. Excessive exposure to heavy emotional situations, emotional shocks, suppressed emotions; strong sensory stimuli like loud music, too much television, drugs, etc.

Menstrual Improper nourishment, psychological issues. Breastmilk Suppression, artificially arresting lactation, not having progeny, prolonged feeding.

02 27

Channels

Excessive flow

Anna Jala Rasa Rakta Maamsa Medas Asthi Majja Shukra

02 28

Sveda Mootra Pureesha Manas Aartava

Blockage Wheezing, asthma, dyspnoea, hernia. Tumours, intestinal obstruction. Diabetes, pancreatic cancer Lymph obstruction, constipation. Arrhythmia, clots, tumours, heart attack. Muscle tumours, chronic inflammation. Tumours. Calcification, spurs. Convulsions, coma, M.S. Blocked tubes, stones, tumours. Inability to sweat. Stones, obstruction. Obstruction, tumours. Blocked emotions, inability to express. Dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea. Mastitis, tumours, pain, oedema. Blockage

Deficiency Shallow breathe, short breath. Deficient appetite, anorexia. Nausea, inability to taste Dehydration, emaciation. Slow pulse, varicose veins hypotension. Spasms, low muscle tone. Weight loss. Weak bones, osteoporosis. Hyposensitivity, numbness, weak regeneration. Delayed ejaculation, low count. Deficient sweating. Scanty urination. Constipation. Dull senses, depression, grief. Delayed or irregular menstruation. Deficient flow of breast milk. Deficiency

Deviated flow Perforation, bleeding lungs. Vomiting, perforation. Vomiting, anorexia Bleeding, coughing blood. Bleeding disorders, internal bleeding. Torn muscle tissue. Torn tissues. Occurs with breaking of bones. Damaged/malformed nerve tissue. Discharge of sperm into bladder. Sweat in plasma. Perforated bladder. Perforation of large bowel. Delirium, schizophrenia. Endometriosis, Tubular pregnancy. Ruptured artery/vein in breast. Deviated flow

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Sthanya

Excessive flow Rapid breathing, hyperventilation. Excess hunger, acidity, diarrhoea. Excess hunger, hypoglycemia Oedema, mucus, lymph congestion. Palpitation, rapid pulse, hypertension. Hyperactivity, tremors. Oedema, obesity. Over growth of skeletal tissues. Hypersensitivity, tremor, overly sharp perception. Spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation. Excess sweating. Polyurea. Diarrhoea. Hyperactive, worry, anger. Polymenorrhea, menorrhagea. Galactorrhea.

Channels Praana

Things I can do to help my channels …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………

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…………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 29

Test Your Malas 1. Malas are essential ………… formed during ………………………… 2. The word ‘mala’ comes from ‘dharane’ ………………………… and ‘kitta’ ………………………… 3. Malas have certain …………………… in our body before being eliminated.

5. ……………………turns into malas at various stages.

02 30

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4. Every ………… has its own mala. Every ………… produces some mala.

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mala

mala

mala

mala

02 31

Bodily wastes -malas Everything inside our body maintains homeostasis. Otherwise they obstruct the natural flow and thus work against life. Life is ever changing, always transforming. Malas natural waste products, that are held in the body by the forces of vata and agni. When vata and agni are balanced, hence, functioning properly, dhaatus are fed plentifully with the essence of food. When they are not, the production of mala increases. In other words, nutrients become inefficient too early and turn into malas. This excess waste, if not excreted in a regular and complete fashion, begins to toxify tissues, thereby causing disease. The principal malas Malas are innumerable. The principal malas are faeces (pureesha), urine (mootra) and sweat (sveda). (Ancient texts haven’t included exhalation as a mere waste since it’s closely associated with praanic functions in the body). The term pureesha means ‘the residue after the absorption of fluids’. Like doshas and dhaatus, malas are also made of the five elements. Secondary malas include the intestines’ fatty excretions, earwax, body hair, nails, tears, menstrual discharge, navel lint etc. These are also listed under the wastes of dhaatus during their transmutation. Two daily evacuations are considered to be vital to health. Urine, the impure fluid of the body, is passed around five times a day if good health is to be maintained. An ample intake of pure water is vital to replenish the bodily fluids. Sweat is the perspiration formed to expel waste from the skin pores. The normal flow of the malas is obstructed whenever the doshas are increased or decreased.



Exhalation Sweat Urine Faeces

Gas Liquid (light) Liquid (heavy) Solid

Lungs Skin Kidneys Colon

02 32 Doshas & malas Vata, the dosha primarily involved with maintaining the dynamic balance, is in charge of retention and elimination bodily wastes. Pitta, involved in helping keep the metabolism intact, is in charge of separating wastes and nutrients in our system. Kapha, which assists all the above functions by lubricating channels, may result in clogging the channels when aggravated. In these situations texts prescribe the five-fold purification therapies called pancha karma in advanced conditions.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Elimination

Excess & depletion Malas Faeces

Normal Acts as a filler or stay to the body.

Urine

Carry the moist and slimy wastes from the body. Retention of moisture. Assists hair to keep firmly rooted.

Sweat

Signs of increase Bloating of abdomen, gurgling noise, feeling of heaviness. Severe bladder pain, incomplete elimination. Frequent urination. Fluid retention. Dryness of skin.

Signs of decrease Discomfort in the chest, gurgling noise, stomach cramps, constipation. Scanty urination, dysuria, discoloured urine, anuria, hematuria. Less sweat, hair loss, brittle hair.

Pitta Acidic, blood, burns, smelly. Yellow, red, burns, smelly. Burns, rashes, inflamed.

Kapha Sticky, heavy, itchy. Cloudy, thick, sediments. Itchy, heavy, cold, retention.

Aggravation of doshas Malas Faeces Urine Sweat

Vata Dry, constipated, painful. Dark, grey scanty, painful. Little. Scaly, bruising skin.

Balancing

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Malas Faeces Urine Sweat

To increase Fibres, bulk promoting substances. Right amount and timing of meals. Use of sufficient fluids, kidney and urinary bladder tonics (Tribulus). Sweating therapy, massage exercise and deep breathing; heating herbs such as ginger, garlic. Warm and fresh food; food and drinks hot in potency.

To decrease Tannins and astringent food & herbs, fruits such as apples and plantains. Cold hipbaths, astringent kidney herbs, judicial use of fluids in diet. Cooling - therapies, gems, breathing and environment; herbs such as vetiver, sandalwood & lavender, food & drinks that are cold in potency.

The three golden rules of health are to: Keep your bowels moving, Keep your breath moving And keep your body moving. ~ Anonymous Exercise Write down the difference between malas and toxins.

02 33

Test Your Fire 1. Agni is defined as …………………………………… 2. Every …………… has its own agni. 3. Agni is produced by its own …………………………… 4. Paachaka Pitta ………………………………food. 5. Agni ………………………………………food.

7. Excess Pitta suppresses …………………………… 8. No transformation is possible without …………………

02 34

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

6. Agni and Paachaka Pitta are …………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

fire

agni fire

agni

02 35

02 36

aum mahaa jwaalaaya vidmahe agni devaaya dhee mahi tanno agnih prachodayaat

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

agni gaayatri

balam is composed of ………………, ……………… and ………………, and regulate the three

agnis that transform thoughts and nutrients into seven groups of

dhaatus Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

which exist in the form of 16 groups of interconnected pathways that are called

srotas Their functions are known as ………………………… and their structure is known as …………………………

02 37

A Bhojana Mantra Chanted Before Meals Aum anna puurne sadaa puurne Shankara prana vallabhey Jnaana vairaagya siddhyartham Bhikshaam dehi cha Paarvatee. Maataa cha Paarvatee Devee Pitaa Devo Maheshvarah Baandhavah Shiva bhaktascha Svadeso bhuvana trayam.

Aum puurnamadah puurnamidam Puurnat puurnam udachyate, Puurnasya puurnam aadaya Puurnam eva avashishyate. Aum shaantih shaantih shaantih. Aum Shivaarpanam astu.

Ref: SANKARA’S ANNAPURNASHTAKAM ISOPANISHAD INVOCATION TRADITIONAL SHAIVITE CLOSING

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

02 38

Meaning: Aum, beloved Shakti of Siva, fully manifest as this foods. O, Mother of the universe, nourish us with this gift of food so that we may attain knowledge, dispassion and spiritual perfection. Goddess Parvati is my mother. God Maheshvara is my father. All devotees of Siva are my family. All three worlds are my home. Aum, That is complete. Creation is complete. From Divine complete flows this world’s complete. This complete issues from that complete, yet that complete remains full. Aum, peace, peace, peace. Aum, this I offer unto Siva.

Digestive fire Jathara agni Gastro intestinal fire

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Metabolic fire Dhaatu agni Rasa fire Rakta fire Maamsa fire Medas fire Asthi fire Majja fire Shukra Elemental fire Bhuta agni Ether fire Air fire Fire fire Water fire Earth fire

02 39

Signs of healthy agni …………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

after eating

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

bowels

…………………………………………………………………

urine

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

eyes

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

hair

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

sleep

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

mind

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

skin

…………………………………………………………………



…………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

02 40

appetitite

Simple Test for Weak Agni Weak Digestion Signs

Weak Digestion Causes

l Coated tongue

l Eating wrong foods

l Frequent fatigue

l Eating at the wrong time

l Headaches

l Eating in the wrong way

l Nausea

l Eating too fast or too slow

l Skin: dry, too oily, cold/hot

l Excessive cold drinks or foods

l Dull skin and eyes

l Excessive fasting, feasting

l Cloudy/smelly urine

l Inducing empty stimulation

l Fatty/heavy/undigested stool

l Overused chemical drugs, laxatives

l Smelly breath

l Restraining natural urges

l Foul body odour

l Mental imbalances

l Poor sleep

l Overexertion, excess sex

l Constipation/diarrhoea

l Lack of sleep and exercise

l Cramps

l Not being mindful while eating

l Mental cloudiness

l General illness

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Agni vikrti lakshanam

Agni vikrti nidaanam

02 41

Specific signs of weak agni Extreme thirst & hunger

Sluggish appetite

Irregular bowel motions

Bleeding

Fluid retention

Weight loss

Intense body odour

Weight gain

Gas, bloating

Sweating, burning

Excess lacrimation

Anxious, fearful dreams

Violent, aggressive dreams

Emotional dreams

Aches, pains, stiffness

Heartburn

Swelling, growth

Constipation

Diarrhoea

Sticky faeces

Dryness of mouth, nails

Easily irritable

Cold, sluggish skin

Dry skin and hair

Yellow/red discolouration

Mucus, Hypersalivation

Insomnia

Colourful, violent dreams

Sleepy

Frequent viruses

Frequent bacteria

Frequent fungus, Candida

My score …………………

My score …………………

My score …………………

Vata excess

Pitta excess

Kapha excess

Intense fire

Sluggish fire

02 Irregular fire 42

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Irregular appetite

General balancing Irregular fire

Intense fire

Sluggish fire

Routine

Alkaline

Fasting

Warmth

Cooling

Warmth

Moisture, light fats

Astringets, bitters

Less moistue, oils

Light and easy to digest

Light and easy to digest

Light and easy to digest

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Yoga practices ………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

………………………………

02 43

Enhance your cooking experience 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Have a clean, orderly, uncluttered and well-equipped kitchen. The kitchen is lit, well-ventilated and with a nice view, with flowers and uplifting music playing. Have all the ingredients handy, preferably fresh and organic. Wash hands and tie hair back. Keep good hygiene (nails clipped etc). Meditate for a few minutes beforehand. Avoid distractions such as bothersome people, phone calls etc. Whilst cooking meditate on those who will receive the meal and how much you love them. Maintain a mood of gentleness, calm, awareness, serenity and gratitude.

Effects of utensils on doshas

02 44

Aids digestive fluids Good for K. Excellent for all doshas. Good for V. Assists aPAna. Good for K. Antidote to poisons Supports liver and V & P. Good for P, good for liver, cooling. Anti-bacterial Improves agni, brain tonic. Good for V.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Wood Gold Copper Lotus leaves Silver Glass/crystal /steel Stone / clay Zinc

Effect of Cooking on doshas Type of process Steaming/sautéing Baking Frying Pressure cooking Dry roasting Puffing Boiling Fermenting Frozen Dehydrating

Suited for All doshas Kapha Vata All doshas Pitta, Kapha Pitta, Kapha All doshas Vata, Kapha Pitta Pitta, Kapha

Small amount for Vata Pitta, Kapha Vata Vata Pitta Vata, Kapha Vata

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Effect of Cooking on agni 1. Milk is heavy, but heating makes it light 2. Grains are heavy, puffing makes them lighter, flours are heavier 3. Rice is heavier when cooked with milk 4. Honey turns into poison when heated or taken with heating foods 5. Beans cooked while skimming froth off top reduces gas 6. Canned foods can increase all doshas

02 45

Test Your Ama 1. Cold /moist ama is from ……………… and known as ………… 2. Hot/acidic ama is from ………………and known as ………… 3. Cold/dry ama is from ……………… and known as ………… 4. Ama is due to ………………………………………agni. 5. Cold/moist ama attracts ……………… or ……………….

7. Cold/dry ama attracts …………………………………… 8. Most ama condition requires ……………… or ………………

02 46

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

6. Hot/acidic ama attracts ……………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

toxins

ama

toxins

ama

02 47

Life is based on fire. In every culture, ancient or modern, fire is the symbol and base of life. Eating is fire-worshipping. Right food, eaten at the right time, in the right way, in the right quantity nourishes fire and creates quality tissues. Fire is called agni. Any improper activities in lifestyle, emotions or diet can affect the proper digestion and thus the state of agni.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

02 48

Formation of Ama

Digestive and metabolic toxins A healthy agni, a healthy person and healthy assimilation are interdependent. If agni is deranged digestion is weak. This results in faulty tissues (ama), which in turn weakens agni. Ama literally means anything unripe, improper, immature incomplete, unsuitable or raw. This form of nutrient is unsuitable for being inside our body. If nutrients or tissues have Ama, they can’t function as they are expected to, resulting in lowered immunity and a weak body. Ama is toxin or poison. Improper eating > Weak agni > Ama/weak dhaatus > Blocked channels > Disease Doshas & Ama Dosha Vata Pitta Kapha

Qualities Cold, dry, stiff, rigid Hot, burning, fluid, intense Sticky , cold, heavy

Example Stones, clots, crystals Acid Mucus, phlegm

Possible microbe Virus Bacteria Fungus, Candida

Tips to improve agni

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Particular herbs have strong agni which help to augment our own digestive strength and facilitate Ama neutralisation and elimination. Therapies Herbs

Cleanse

Favour

Avoid Applicable?

Irregular fire Cinnamon, hing, fennel, cardamom, cumin, warm milk. Sweating, oil enema, oily and mild laxatives.

Intense fire Aloe, golden seal, triphala and ghee.

Sluggish fire Ginger, long pepper, cayenne, honey.

Purgation (bitter laxatives)

Mindful eating, regulation, sweet, sour and salty. Gassy, cold, dry heavy foods; irregular meals.

Relaxed, slow eating; bitter, sweet and astringent. Eating when upset; pungent, sour, salty food.

Vomiting with herbs such as liquorice, calamus etc. Fasting; pungent, bitter and astringent. Overeating, late dinners; sweet, sour and salty foods.

02 49

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

02 50

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

aahaaram

nutrition

aahaaram

02 51

Ayurvedic nutrition Ayurvedic nutrition considered the following categories of food items before prescribing diet. Categories Taste Qualities Potency Absorption Specific effects Effect on agni Effect on dosha Effect on tissues Effect on channel Effect on organ Effect on system Effect on disease

Sesame oil Pungent, bitter Hot, light, moist, intense Hot Last phase Nerve tonic Stabilizing Vata/Kapha reducing Asthi, majja Asthi, majja, pureesha Large intestine Nervous system Depletion, blockage

Ghee Sweet Cold, heavy, oily, mild Cold First phase Liver tonic Coolant Vata/Pitta reducing Rasa, majja, shukra Rasa, majja, shukra, praana, anna Liver, stomach Adipose system Depletion, last phase

Ginger (fresh) Pungent, sweet Hot, light, dry, intense Hot First phase Kapha ama digestive Stimulant Vata/Kapha reducing Rakta, rasa Rakta, rasa, sveda, pureesha Stomach, small intestine Circulatory system Inflammation

Study of Tastes Tastes indicate active elements in each substance. We can understand the effects of it from the flavour of the substance. In other words according to the predominance of elements things taste differently. Here is the relationship between taste and predominant elements. Predominant elements Earth Water Earth Fire Water Fire Air Ether Air Fire Earth Air

Increase K K P K P V V P V

Decrease V P V V K P K K P

Write down the three main qualities and potencies of the tastes

02 52

Tastes

Quality 1

Quality 2

Quality 3

Potency

Sweet

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

Sour

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

Salt

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

Bitter

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

Pungent

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

Astringent

……………… ……………… ……………… ………………

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Taste / rasa Sweet Sour Salt Bitter Pungent Astringent

1. Sweet

4. Pungent

2. Sour

5. Bitter

3. Salt

6. Astringent

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Examples: Milk, rice, carob, wheat, butter, dates, fennel, liquorice, potatoes and honey. Physical effects: Nourishing, vitalising, adds bulk, firmness, rejuvenative, regenerative, rebuilds weak tissue, relieves emaciation, relieves fits and fainting, nutritive, tonic. Mental effects: Harmonises, nourishes, promotes contentment, love, calms, strengthens. Excess effects: Excessive desire, gratification, complacency. Obesity, Numbness, flaccidity, swelling, Increases sleep, legs and neck. Difficult urination & dyspnoea. Excessive secretion.

Examples: Berries, lemon, lime, raspberries, rosehips, fermented food and ripe grapes. Physical effects: Invigorating, appetising, dispels intestinal gas, promotes secretions, moistening, aids digestion, stimulant, carminative, nourishment, tonic. Mental effects Awakens, comforts, promotes understanding, awareness, stabilises Excess effects: Anger. Toxins in the blood, envy, muscle wasting, jealousy, looseness of skin, oedema, burning.

Examples: Salts, Irish moss, seaweed. Physical effects: Enkindles digestive fire, moistening, cutting, biting, sharp, fluid, sedative, laxative, deobstruent, relaxant, softens, promotes secretions and demulcent. Mental effects: Intensifies, boldness, enlivens, courage. Excess effects: Greed, hedonism. Fluid retention, burning, weak senses & hair, dizzy, fluid retention, dermatitis, low virility, bleeding, hyperacidity, premature aging.

Examples: Hot spices (garlic, onions, cayenne, pepper, chilli, hing etc) Physical effects: Cleanses, Purifies food, enkindles digestive fire, clarity to senses, promotes secretions such as nasal or lacrimal, relieves obesity, abdominal, swelling and retention of fluid Mental effects: Stimulant, promotes clarity, alertness Excess effects: Anger, irritability, intolerance Excess effects: Delusions, tiredness, emaciation, fainting, loss of consciousness, dizziness, burns, tremors, various pains, low virility

Examples: Aloe, dandelion, gentian, golden seal, yarrow, barberry and blue flag. Physical effects: Antibacterial, germicidal, febrifuge, digestive and carminative; firms skin, purifies, reduces fat, marrow, lymph, urine & faeces. Mental effects: Clarity in expression, keen perception, focus Excess effects: Depression, delusion, grief, anxiety, fear, Insecurity, memory loss Excess effects: Emaciation, Weariness, dizziness, dryness, depletion, porosity, weight loss

Examples: Tannins, lotus seeds, uva ursi, raspberry leaves, sumach, witch hazel, plantain, turmeric and lentils. Physical effects: Sedative, drying, contracting, antiperspirant, inhibits elimination, healing of sores and wounds, promotes absorption, haemostatic, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory Mental effects: Retention of memory. Excess effects: Pain, confusion, dryness, fear, obstruction, constipation, darkens skin, weakens voice, convulsions, paralysis.

02 53

Food Sadhanas Imparting everyday actions with sacred significance for spiritual evolution. Sadhana of humility of celebration of abundance calming mind of purification to infuse prANa of love of gratitude

practice Gardening Reaping harvest Shopping Preparing Ghee Washing dishes Conscious contact Cooking nourishing meal Offering meal

Poor Food Combinations Equal quantities of More sweet with Milk with Milk with Fresh food with Alcohol, yoghurt / honey with Nuts with

honey & ghee. Salt. Salt / seafood / meat / yeast. sour fruit / pickles / vegetables. left overs. hot food / drinks. starchy vegies.

Do I eat healthy? Score: Never 0, Rarely 1, Occasionally 2, Mostly 3. The bigger the score the better your eating habits. I have regular meals I feed my body what it needs I don’t overeat I enjoy with all my five sense organs I rest for a while after meals yet don’t go to sleep I eat in a relaxed, slow manner I chew well I eat only when I’m hungry I have an early and light dinner I feel better rather than worse after eating I have a large range of vegetables I try to use organic vegetables I try to use more unrefined food I try to avoid preservatives, additives etc. I try minimise tinned food I try use seasonal, fresh food

Total

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

……………………

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02 54

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.

Food Antidotes Cheese Sour cream Yoghurt Rice Wheat Legumes Ice cream Cabbage Garlic Green salad Potatoes Tomatoes Avocado Banana Popcorn Sweets

black pepper, allspice, ginger coriander, cardamom cumin, ginger clove, peppercorn ginger turmeric, hing, cloves, rock salt clove, cardamom mustard seeds grated coconut and lemon olive oil, lemon juice ghee, peppercorn lime, cumin turmeric, lemon, garlic cardamom ghee dry ginger powder

The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in diet, in the care of the human frame and in the cause and prevention of disease - Thomas Edison.

Food & their effects

“Food is tasty medicine, medicine is potent food” -Ayurveda.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

We need the right combination of the three mental qualities with a predomination of Satwa. When we eat more rajasic or tamasic food our mind gets affected by them. Following are some examples of three groups of food. Satvic Food dear to those in the mode of goodness, increase the duration of life, purify one’s existence and gives strength, health, happiness and satisfaction. Such foods are juicy, fatty, wholesome and pleasing to the heart. 12 pt: Fresh vegetables, fruits, milk, ghee, nuts, butter, natural and lovingly prepared foods. Rajasic Excessively sour, salty, pungent, fermented, dry and over processed are dear to those in the mode of passion. Such foods cause distress, misery and disease. Rajasic foods cause hyperacidity, irritability, increase toxins in the blood and promote hypertension. They disturb the senses and cause the emotions to fluctuate. Examples: Meat, hot spices, stimulants, intoxicants, fermented, pickled, salty, sour, pungent foods. Tamasic Food prepared more than three hours before being eaten, food that is tasteless, decomposed and putrefied, and food consisting of remnants and untouchable things is dear to those in the mood of ignorance. Tamasic foods cause hypo-activity, lethargy, apathy, excessive sleep, accumulate phlegm and waste materials. They dull the senses and keep the emotions heavy and resistant. 12 pt: Junk food, tinned food, decaying/ old food, reheated food. Ref: Bhagavad Gita 17.8-9, 14.17

02 55

homework reading exercises

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

02 56

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

energetics

food

02 57

Food energetics Refering to books such as nutrition almanac, collect 3 therapeutic uses and 3 nutrients for each food item given below.

Grains Item Amaranth

Taste sweet

Potency Absob hot sweet

Dosha effect +VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Barley

sweet

cold

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Buckwheat

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, -K

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Corn

02 58

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Millet

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Oats -uncooked

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Oats -cooked

sweet

hot

sweet

-VP, +K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Quinoa

sweet

hot

sweet

-VK, +P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Rice (white)

sweet

cold

sweet

-VP, =K

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Rice (brown)

sweet

cold

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Rye

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 59

Triticale

sweet

hot

sweet

+VP, =V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Wheat

sweet

cold

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Vegetables Artichoke

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Asparagus

sw/b/a

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Avocado

02 60

sweet

hot

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Beans -green sw/as cool sweet +V, -PK ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Bean sprout

as/sw

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Beets

sweet

hot

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Bell pepper

sw/as

cool

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Bitter melon

bitter

cool

pungent +V, -PK

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Broccoli

as/sw

cool

pungent +V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Carrots

sw/pun

warm

sweet

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 61

Celery

as/sw/sa cool

pungent +V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Chilies

pungent hot

pungent +P, -KV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Coriander

pungent cool

pungent +V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Corn

sweet

hot

sweet

+PV, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sw/ast

cool

sweet

+VK, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 62

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Eggplant

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+VK, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Cucumber

Lettuce

ast

cool

pungent +V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mushrooms

sw/ast

cool

pungent +V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Okra

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Onions

pun/sw

hot

sweet

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Parsley

pun/ast

warm

pungent +P, -KV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Peas

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 63

Potatoes

ast

cool

sweet

+VK, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Radish

pun/ast

warm

pungent +VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Seaweed

sa/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Spinach

ast

cool

pungent +VP, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 64

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sweet potatoes

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Squash

Tomatoes

sw/so

hot

sour

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Turnips

ast

cool

pungent +K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Zucchini

bit/sw

cool

sweet

+ V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Beans Aduki

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Chickpea

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Broad bean

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 65

Kidney

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Lentils

sw/ast

hot

sweet

+PV, -K

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Lima

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mung

sw/ast

cool

sweet

=VPK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sw/ast

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 66

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Soya

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Peanuts

Tofu

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+KV, -P (=VPK)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Split

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Urad

sweet

hot

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Nuts Almonds

sw/bit

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Brazil

sweet

hot

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Cashews

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 67

Coconut

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Lotus

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+KV, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Macadamia

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pecans

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 68

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Pistachio

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Pine

Pumpkin

sweet

hot

sweet

+V, -KP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sesame

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sunflower

sw/bit

cool

sweet

+VPK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Walnuts

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Dairy products Butter

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Buttermilk

so/ast

hot

sour

+P, =VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 69

Cheese

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Cottage cheese

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Cream

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Ghee

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 70

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Milk

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Ice Cream

Sour Cream

sw/so

hot

sour

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Yoghurt

sw/so

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Oils Almond

sw/bit

hot

sweet

+PK, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Avocado

sw/ast

hot

sweet

+KP, -V

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Canola

sweet

hot

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Castor

bit/sw

hot

pungent +PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 71

Corn

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Coconut

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Linseed

pun/sw

warm

pungent +P, -KV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Margarine

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… pungent hot

pungent +P, -KV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 72

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Olive sweet neutral sweet +K, -VP ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Mustard

Peanut

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Safflower

sw/pung hot

pungent +KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sesame

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Soy

sw/ast

cool

sweet

+KV, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Sunflower

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fruits Apples

sw/as/so cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 73

Apricots

sw/so

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Bananas

sw/as

cool

sour

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Cranberries

as/sw

cool

sweet

+V, -PK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Cherries

sw/so

warm

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 74

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Figs

sw/as

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Dates

Grapes

sw/so

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Grapefruit

sour

hot

sour

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Kiwi Fruit

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Lemon

so/as

cool

sour

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Lime

sour

cool

sour

+K, =PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mango

sw/so

hot

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 75

Melons

sweet

cool

sweet

+KV, -P

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Oranges

sw/so

cool

sweet

+K, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Papaya

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Peaches

sw/so

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 76

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Persimon

sw/as

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Pears

Pineapple

sw/so

cool

sweet

+K, -PV

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Plums

sw/so

cool

sweet

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… P’granate

sw/ast

cool

sweet

-P, =VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Straw berries

sw/so

cool

sweet

+KP, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Sweeteners Brown sugar

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Honey

sw/as/pu hot

sweet

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 77

Jaggary

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Maltose

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Maple Syrup

sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Molasses

sweet

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… sweet

cool

sweet

+K, -VP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 78

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

White Sugar

Condiments Carob

sw/ast

hot

sweet

+P, -VK

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Chocolate

sw/pu/bit hot

pungent +PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mayonnaise

so/sw

hot

sour

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Mustard

pungent hot

pungent +P, -VK

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Olives

sa/so

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Salt

salt

hot

sweet

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 79

Tamari

so/sa

hot

sour

+PK, -V

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Vinegar sour hot sour +PK, -V ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 80

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

02 81

The timeless wisdom of Ayurvedic healing has always had a prominent influence on the home remedies in Indian households. Grandma’s remedies and common sense advice often successfully alleviates countless acute illnesses, preventing them from developing into incurable chronic conditions. Try some of these simple home remedies and see the potency of Ayurveda for yourself. ACNE Mix 12 parts chickpea flour, 1 part sandalwood powder and 1 part turmeric powder. Add to 1 level Tbs of this combination enough water to make a thick paste. Apply to affected areas once daily for 15 minutes then rinse off with cold water. Spray the face with equal parts Aloe Vera juice and Rose Water. Continue until acne clears. Avoid: Dairy products, meat, hot spices and oils ASTHMA Practice steam inhalation for 10 -15 minutes in the morning and evening, with a basin of hot water and a few drops of wintergreen oil or eucalyptus oil plus a few granules of camphor. Equal parts of licorice and ginger with a pinch of pepper and honey made into a tea are recommended for expectorating mucus and relaxing the bronchioles. Yoga postures and prANAyAma are very effective, often giving long-term relief. Avoid: Cold foods/ drinks, dairy, smoke and stress. BACK ACHE (Lower) Dip a piece of muslin cotton about 5 cms long and wide in warm mustard or sesame oil with a few granules of camphor dissolved in it. Rest this on the affected area, covering with a hot water bottle and a warm towel for 20 -40 minutes. Finish with a warm epsom salts bath for 10 minutes. Pound 3 Tbs.fresh ginger root Mix into a thick paste with warm water and apply over the painful area, covering with a warn towel and leaving on for 20-30 minutes.

02 82

COLD /COUGH Steam inhalation with one or a combination of tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon grass oil, ginger oil for 5-15 minutes up to three times daily. The following tea can prevent fever and indigestion associated with colds, as well as promoting mucous expectoration. Mix together 2 cinnamon quills, 4 slices of fresh ginger, 2 cloves, a pinch of black pepper (or 2 peppercorns) and 1/2 tsp cardamom powder. Simmer in two cups of water until reduced to one cup. Strain, allow to cool and add one Tbs honey. Drink up to 4 cups daily. Avoid: Cold food/ drink, dairy, cold winds, lack of sleep and long journeys. CONSTIPATION Food with lots of fibre, plenty of warm fluids and exercise often alleviates simple constipation. One glass of water boiled with a tablespoon of flax seed oil can be drunk at bedtime. Psyllium hulls may also be taken as directed. Avoid: Fatty foods, meat, white flour, soft drinks, coffee and irregular eating habits.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

BURNS Mix equal parts ghee, honey and Aloe Vera gel. Apply to affected area at least twice daily until healed.

DIARRHOEA Water boiled with arrowroot powder can be used to soothe the gastro-intestinal tract, strengthen intestinal flora and hydrate the body (250 ml water: 5 teaspoons arrowroot powder). 1 litre of pure water with the juice of one lemon juice, 1 Tbs of sugar or honey and a pinch of salt is another effective home hydration remedy. A mixture of boiled buttermilk with a little fresh ginger and hing calms the cramps. Charcoal tablets may be taken as directed until the stool turns black. Diet should consist of salted rice soup, miso soup, cooked unripe banana and yoghurt, peeled and grated apple and soaked flat rice. All other foods should be avoided until the upset settles.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

EARACHE Fry 2 crushed garlic cloves in 1 Tbs olive oil. After a few minutes, strain and apply 3 drops into the painful ear. Block with a wad of cotton wool and leave in for at least an hour. EYE -WEAKNESS OF To 5 cups of water add 5-7 tsps of crushed coriander seeds. Simmer until reduced to 3 cups of water. Strain, allow to cool and add 8 drops of rosewater. Using an eye bath, wash your eyes in the tea for at least 2 minutes each eye. Dip herbal eye bright tea bags in hot water, squeeze out excess water and place over eyes for 5 minutes. Camomile tea can be used as an effective alternative. Triphala is by far the most superior herb mix to strengthen the eyes to cure and prevent many eye disorders. It is only available through an Ayurvedic physician. FLATULENCE Mix equal parts hing powder, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, ginger powder, black salt and a peppermint tea bag. Boiling in 3 cups of water, reduce to 1 cup and drink 1/3 cup three times daily. Charcoal tablets are also very effective. Avoid: Leafy greens, legumes (dals), eggs and meat. HEADACHE Take a steam inhalation or sauna and then drink 4 to 8 cups of lightly salted water right at the beginning of indigestion headaches. Induce vomiting by pressing the back of your palette with two fingers. Rest and take a rehydrating drink. Stress headaches can be avoided and relieved by a regular massage and stress management techniques such as yoga nidra. In sinus head aches Jala neti will be helpful. Anaemic headaches may be helped by taking 1 Tbs black strap molasses daily after breakfast. Perform daily scalp massage with sesame or coconut oil. Avoid: Eyestrain, bright lights, fatty foods, alcohol, coffee, tea, poor posture and stress.

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INDIGESTION Indigestion is generally due to poor dietary habits such as excessive eating, irregular eating or eating unhealthy food. General indigestion can be cured with herbal tea fasting for half a day or a full day. With the help of suitable digestive such as ginger tea, recovery is more rapid. If you have excessive sweat and tend to feel hot, bitter digestives are better for you, especially when you experience a burning sensation in your stomach or ulcers. Consider using slippery elm powder and cabbage leaf juice also. For general indigestion mix one clove of minced garlic with a pinch of salt and a pinch of baking soda 1- 3 times daily with a little warm water or herbal tea. Heat 10 cloves of minced garlic in 2 tsps ghee and 1/4 tsp salt, for three minutes. Taking this every night before dinner for 3 days prevents worms, ignites the digestive fire and balances one’s metabolism. A mixture of basil (5 tsps), cumin seed powder (4 tsps), asafoetida (1 tsp), rock salt (1 tsp), black salt (1tsp), ginger (3 tsps) and pepper (2 tsps) is a good combination which can be prepared and kept in the kitchen. Mix 1 tsp of this combination with 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp honey in 1/4 cup of warm water, drinking 10 minutes before meals to prevent weak digestion. WORMS

SORE THROAT

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Mix 1/2 cup of warm water with 1/2 tsp of salt, 5 drops of tea tree oil and 1 tsp of turmeric powder 3 times daily. Red Sage tea mixed with equal parts glycerine is another very effective gargle. Avoid: cold, raw foods and drinks and dairy products. TOOTHACHE Soak cotton wool in 6 drops garlic oil and 3 drops clove oil. Apply to painful tooth for at least 1 hour.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Heat 10 cloves of minced garlic with 2 tsps ghee and 1/2 tsp salt for 3 minutes in a small pan or a large stainless steel spoon. Strain and take every night before dinner. Children under 8 years should take half this dose. A combination of 1/2 tsp holy basil leaves, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/2 tsp asafoetida, 1/4 tsp ginger, 1/4 tsp ginger, 4 cloves of grated garlic, three pinches of rock salt and 1 Tbs crushed pumpkin seeds should be boiled in 4 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup. Drinking this mixture with two teaspoons of honey will relieve stomach ache caused by worms. Give it continuously for five days every month to children. If available, neem leaves are the best remedy for worms. Chew 3 leaves on an empty stomach every morning (half the dose for children)- under 7 years. Avoid: Sweets, walking barefoot, impure water and meat.

AntiAllergic This tea combination is a liver and blood tonic. Purifies blood and strengthen digestion. Reduces kapha and pitta. Slightly cooling in nature. Ingredients: Equal quantities of crushed neem leaves, crushed turmeric, crushed coriander seeds and crushed curry leaves (totally 40 grams), boiled with 700 mils of water on mild flame and reduced to 200 mils. If you don’t have proper bowel movements (1-2 per day) add 5 gms of senna leaf at the time of boiling, or add a tsp of senna powder with the evening dose of tea. This can be used as a powder also. Dosage: 50 mils one hour before meals twice daily, preferably before breakfast and dinner. Powder One tsp 3-4 times daily, before meals, with warm water. (Honey can be added if you are not allergic to it!) FluAway

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

A tasty strong tea. Ingredients: 5 gms (half an inch) of crushed ginger and 30 gms (4 Tbs) coriander seeds are boiled with 700 mils of water on mild flame and reduced to 200 mils. If you feel sinusy or have a cough or cold add 10 gms of basil leaves and 5 gms black pepper to it before boiling. Dosage: 50 mils one hour before meals 2-4 times daily. CoughOff Coriander and crushed basil leaves 2 tsps each, ginger, pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom quarter tsp each boiled with 5 cups of water and reduced to 1-2 cup on low flame. Dosage: Half cup, 3-4 times daily. FeverFar Coriander, ginger and crushed basil leaves (2 tsps each), pepper and cardamom quarter tsp each boiled with 5 cups of water and reduced to 1-2 cup on low flame. Dosage: Half cup, 3-4 times daily. Excellent for flus and colds too.

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why’severyonev Caroline Robertson and Rama Prasad

“Reducing meat consumption is probably the most potent single act individuals can take in the effort to halt the destruction of our environment and preserve our precious resources...it conserves water, saves energy, preserves topsoil, reduces our dependence on chemical pesticides and fertilizers and protects forests.All this while improving health.” -John Robbins, Diet for a New America.

To Your Health! A shift to vegetarianism by the population generally would result in a significant reduction in degenerative diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disorder, inflammatory joint disease and possibly even some psychiatric and psychological disorders. This statement is based on current scientific evidence” -Dr Ian Brighthope, Physician and President of the Aust. College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

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Would you like cleaner air and water, more trees, a healthier body, an end to world hunger, an animal loving society and a thicker wallet? These are just some of the reasons why more people are embracing the vegetarian diet. No longer the domain of lentil loving hippies, vegetarianism is a viable option for anyone who understands the personal and planetary benefits of consciously choosing what goes in our mouths.

veggingout? Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Why is the vegetarian diet becoming so trendy? Are we just rebelling against Granny’s warning“you’ll get sick and die if you don’t eat your chops!” Or has medical science proven Granny wrong? Statistics show that vegetarianism is great medical insurance. Vegetarians have a markedly lowered incidence of arthritis, asthma, cancer, constipation, dementia diabetes mellitus, diverticulosis, food poisoning, gallstones, gout, hypertension, hypoglycaemia, impotence, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, obesity, osteoporosis and peptic ulcers. Why is it so health promoting? Not only is a balanced vegetarian diet low in cholesterol, saturated fat and chemicals, it’s high fibre, vitamins, minerals and phytoestrogens offer protect from the most deadly diseases. (NB: to editor-the following up to “easier” could be chart form) Other fringe benefits include: Longer life -Vegetarian people such as the Himalayan Hunzas and Seventh Day Adventists have a very high life expectancy. In contrast Eskimos who live primarily on meat and fish age rapidly with an average lifespan of about 30 years, same goes for the primarily meat eating Russian Kirgese who rarely survived beyond 40yrs. Energy edge -What? Aren’t vegetarians weak weaklings? Not according to Yale and Brussels University tests which show that vegetarians have double the endurance and recover three times faster from exercise than meat eaters. Glowing skin -The high fibre in a healthy vegetarian diet and the absence of heavy meat prevents constipation so toxins are easily flushed out. The extra vitamins, minerals, enzymes, chlorophyll plus other goodies in the healthy vegetarian diet promotes a soft, moisturised and rapidly repairing skin.

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Easy weight management -Vegetarians are four times less likely to be obese than meat eaters. Loosing all that saturated fat intake makes weight control much easier. HAVE A HEART It seems animals are getting their revenge according to Dr William Roberts, Chief Editor of the American Journal of Cardiology “When we kill animals to eat them, they end up killing us because their flesh, which contains cholesterol and saturated fat, was never intended for human consumption” Do you have a family history of cancer or heart disease? It wouldn’t be surprising. These two diseases are nearly epidemic in countries with high meat consumption whereas incidence is much lower in countries with low meat intake. Heart disease is the number one killer in the US with 50% of Americans dying from it. But there’s good news for vegetarians as “90-97% of heart disease can be prevented by a vegetarian diet” according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. This is because a vegetarian diet is high in protective antioxidants, minerals and fibre to keep the heart pure. Meat on the other hand is high in saturated fats and oxidised cholesterol which clogs up the arteries promoting high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, stroke, angina and heart attacks. Even children fed the typical American diet have been found to have fatty deposits in their arteries.

Now onto the BIG C...Cancer Who doesn’t know someone whose life has been darkened by this tragedy? The specific cause of cancer has alluded us up til now. But we’ve known the contributing factors for decades. Guess what food increases the risk of colon cancer by 250%? That’s right, meat. The British Medical Journal cites that vegies are 40% less likely to die from cancer and have an amazing 80% reduced risk of breast cancer. An Everest of clinical

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

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But chicken and fish is OK I hear you say. Not so. Most chicken has the same fat and cholesterol levels as lean beef. Many fish such as catfish, swordfish and trout are almost 1/3 fat. Salmon is 52% fat whereas shrimp has double the cholesterol of beef! Fish do have the beneficial fats such as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids but they also contain the artery-clogging saturated fats as well as some other nasty surprises...more of that later. Better to get your fatty acids from green vegies, beans and flax seed oil.

studies revised by the 1995 Government advisory committee on Medical Aspects of Food and Nutrition Policy came to the irrefutable concensus that there is a strong link between meat consumption and cancer of the bowel, lung, breast, mouth, prostate and womb. Why is it so? Vegetarian diets are high in cancer inhibiting phytochemicals such as isoflavones and lycopene (in tomatoes). Vegetarian high fibre flushes waste from the intestines whereas meat tends to constipate and putrefy in the gut. Kelloggs cornflakes mogul himself believed that 90% of all chronic ills lay in the sluggish bowels of a meat eater. In light of this startling evidence the 1997 World Cancer Research Fund stated that a vegetarian diet could prevent 100,000 cases of cancer annually in the UK. We’ll uncover the hidden carcinogenic agents in meat next. Dead Meat “Every juicy morsal of meat is fairly alive and swimming with the identical micro-organisms found in a dead rat or the putrefying carcass of a cow” -John Harvey Kellogg, founder Kelloggs Lets face it, most food today is a chemical time bomb. Nitrition and taste has taken a backseat to the agribusiness’ synthetic science of increased yield, attractiveness and profit. Of course there’s the organic meat industry which is relatively healthier but it still has certain dangerous contaminants.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Eating meat is particularly daring roulette as not only do you have to contend with the artificial chemicals, pollutants and drugs infecting it, there is the added bogeyman of communicable diseases such as Mad Cow disease, anthrax, salmonella, brucellosis and worms! Could this be why workers in the meat industry in the UK have five times the average employee illness? From birth to execution a livestock animal is kept alive and fattened by a continuous administration of tranquillisers, hormones, antibiotics and up to 2,700 drugs. The hormones fed to chickens can make a seven-week old baby have the giant body of an adult. Often the chicks’ skeleton can’t support its massive body so they suffer joint pain, deformities and can’t walk. What does this do to us when we eat it? Artificial hormones present in nearly all meats are strongly linked to breast cancer, heavy periods, ovarian cysts and infertility. Guys aren’t safe either. It decreases sperm count and motility; the average hamster today has more morphologically normal sperm than the average man. Interesting to note that organic farmers have twice the normal sperm of other men. Even if they do have enough swimmers the saturated fats in meat can clog up the arteries in the penis so blood supply is blocked and erection is thwarted. Don’t like taking antibiotics? Well you might think twice about you your next steak. Consumer affairs associations have proven that there are traces of antibiotics in beef, veal, pork and chicken. 33% of all antibiotics used in Canada are used for livestock and Australia is likely to be similar. We all know that antibiotics can compromise our immune system leaving us more vulnerable to thrush and infections but did you realise that they create super-bugs in our system resistant to treatment? An example of this is the recent resistance of salmonella typhimurium to commonly used antibiotics. What does it tell us when 75% of US chicken inspectors refuse to eat chicken due to poor hygiene conditions? Chickens living in a cage of faeces for weeks often leads to salmonella which as Newsweek recently published is present in 23% of Australian chickens. Although there are 900,000 reported cases of salmonella in the US annually these are probably conservative estimates as salmonella symptoms are similar to the flu. I don’t want to make you chicken but the bacterial infection E.Coli’s not much better. 10,000 cases of it were reported in the US in ‘97 as well as 400 people being infected with it from an award winning Scottish butcher, 20 dying. If you’re a child, pregnant or elderly these infections can prove fatal. Who can forget the recent footage of mad cows frothing at the mouths, eyes rolling and bellowing in

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pain? Thousands of cows were slaughtered because they had a disease could have been prevented if they hadn’t been forced to eat infected offal and meat in the first place. No wonder the naturally vegetarian cows went looney. Mad Cow Disese (BSE) is not a pretty picture. What we didn’t see was what happens to the dozens of people who get it annually. Eating infected beef or beef products such as gelatine, beef shortening can give you with the disease which presents in humans as CJD (Creutzfeld-Jacob disease.) The results are like a horror movie. People’s brains are eaten away from the inside until a slow death ensues. Unfortunately cooking the beef doesn’t destroy the disease and it can incubate in our body for forty years until symptoms occur. The full extent of this disease will not be known for many years. Vegetarians needn’t worry as they have the luxury of eating a meal without worrying about what it died of. The naturally occurring things in meat can also pose a serious health hazard. Make beef tea by boiling steak and you’ll find it has almost the same chemical composition as urine. That means lots of toxins including uric acid enhancing our chances for cancer, arthritis, kidney stones, gallstones and gout. An animal facing the trauma and terror of slaughter releases stress hormones such as adrenalin and noradrenalin. These put the body into a state of defensive alert: heart pounding, stomach churning and muscles contracting. These hormones are still present in the meat when we eat it, making us uptight, fearful and ready for a fight at the smallest incident. Maybe that road rage maniac had turkey for lunch. Meat also contains arachidonic acid, uric acid and nitrates which promote arthritis, gout and period pain. But how does meat increase Osteoporosis? Excess animal protein (high in sulphur amino acids) and acid causes the blood to become acid which leaches calcium from the bones. This is why high meat and milk intake countries have the highest rate of osteoporosis. Excess protein also causes kidney disease. Once animals are killed flesh naturally starts to rot and turn a greyish green. Preservatives and dyes added to the meat to keep it a “fresh” red colour are digestive irritants and may be carcinogenic(cancer causing). The way meat is cooked is also important. Eating

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Something Smells Fishy Have you been reeled in by the BIG fish story? The news is that fish is health food that is good for the heart and skin. Fish(in cold climates-not Australia) do have health promoting omega 3 fatty acids good for the skin and heart but so do other healthier foods. If you like a little saturated fats, cholesterol, mercury, lead, arsenic, petroleum, DDT, nitrogen, sewage, chlorine, phosphorus, PCBs, dioxin, salmonella, cholera, hepatitis, PAHs, radioactive waste and pesticides with your Omega 3’s then I suggest the fish. If on the other hand you prefer to side step the possibility of after-dinner brain damage, liver tumours, infertility, sterility, nervous system diseases, paralysis, kidney damage and even cancer I suggest you choose the flax seed oil, walnut oil, tofu, pumpkin seed oil and leafy green vegies which have the added advantage of antioxidants with the omega 3 and 6. Do you know where your fish has been and what its been eating? You might loose your lunch if you knew. The rising pollution in the oceans is carried great distances and fish indiscriminately absorb it all. If the waters not safe to drink, the fish aren’t safe to eat. Fish can accumulate as much as 9 million times toxins as that of the water in which they live. Shellfish are particularly absorbant with so many people apparently allergic to them whereas its probably the toxins they have trouble with. As much as 10% of shellfish are infected with organisms that can cause hepatitis, salmonella, cholera and even death.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

2 pounds of charcoal broiled steak you get as much carcinogenic benzopyrene as smoking 600 cigarettes! Heterocyclic amines, highest in chicken, are also particularly carcinogenic. So now you know why vegetarians have a drastically decreased risk of the number two killer -cancer.

The Simpsons three eyed fish isn’t that far fetched! Ailments of fish and ocean birds are indicating the extent of the crisis. Suffering from skeletal deformities, tumours, chromosomal damage, reproductive dysfunction and radioactive poisoning they’re drowning in a sea of toxins. Male fish are starting to show female characteristics -is that why female impersonators are so convincing these days! Recently dioxin land contamination in Brazil polluted citrus pulp in Germany. What to speak of the radioactive fallout from places like Chernobyl. Increased algal blooms and red tides are evidence of the rising ocean pollution levels, even deep water fish are affected. If you’re pregnant you might like to take the advice of world health authorities who warn pregnant woman not to eat fish due to the risk of foetal brain damage, defects and developmental deviations. Extensive studies in the Netherlands and the US support this caution.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

An increased demand for fish and modern trawling and vacuuming methods of fishing mean that there is a global crisis of overfishing. Over the last 10 years the marine catch has increased by four times and the most important commercial fish are in steep decline. Some species are so overfished they are becoming endangared, the Canadian Cod are a good example. There’s a lot of unnecessary waste and killing in commercial fishing resulting in one quarter of the fish caught being discarded. A third of the fish caught is made into meal for livestock. Innocent bystanders are also victims with millions of dolphins dying in tuna nets, about 44,000 albatrosses killed annually in lines, birds swallowing bait and hooks plus millions of other marine mammals such as seals, sea turtles and even whales die horrible deaths. Maybe we’ll think twice before throwing a shrimp on the Barbie knowing that for every one pound of shrimp sold twenty pounds of other sea creatures were caught. There’s always a tofu steak! Although fish aren’t cuddly like puppies they still feel the same pain. They have taste buds on their tongue, lips and noses which give them acute pain perception. Their sensory hairs on their backs allow them to register the most subtle vibrations. Being hooked and thrown onto their back has gotta hurt. Maybe Pythagoras knew this. Sympathising with the flailing fish so much he would pay the fishermen the cost of their catch to throw the fish back to sea. Fishing is dangerously depleting the marine ecosystem. Don’t take the “healthy choice” bait, you can let them off the hook. By keeping them off your plate and in the water you’ll be making a valuable contribution to preserving

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the ocean for future generations. Your body will thank you too. VEGIEMAN to the worlds rescue! Imagine you’re sitting at the dinner table with an 8-ounce steak on your plate, surrounded by 45-59 starving people with empty plates. If you were having a vegetarian meal everyone’s plate would be full. This is the reality of the situation as explained by Francis Moore Lappe in her book- Diet for a Small Planet. Harvard nutritionist Jean Mayer estimates that cutting down meat production by only 10% would release enough grain to feed 60 million people. While a child dies of starvation every 2.3 seconds 70% of US grain is fed to animals. With proper agricultural policies and less meat production global hunger could be a legacy of the past. What’s the real price of meat? Every 1 pound of meat produced costs us 16 pounds of grain, 35 pounds of topsoil (1 inch of which takes 200 years to develop) and up to 6,000 pounds of water as opposed to the 60 pounds of water it takes to produce 1 pound of wheat. Concerned about the rainforest and deforestation? 40% of the Amazon rainforest has been destroyed along with innumerable irreplaceable plant and animal species in order to graze cattle. Worldwide 50% of the landmass is used to graze cattle whereas only 1 1/2% is used for plant food production.

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Vegetarians are making a step towards preventing desertification of arable land, the destruction of rainforests and the wastage of global resources. This proactive approach may be the only way to save our planet from the grave collision course its headed on. Meals Without Squeals “Never eat things with faces thank you” Joanna Lumley The average Australian eats 17 cows, 92 sheep, 15 pigs, 1,200 chickens, 2,000 fish and 16,500 eggs in a lifetime. No wonder George Bernard Shaw described meat eaters as animal graveyards. Demand for meat is definately on the decline though including pork sales which hit an all

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

As far as the world’s pollution problem -70% of it is due to animal “production.” The late Homebush abbattoir was the single greatest polluter of Sydney’s coastal waters according to a NSW Government Newlsetter. Contaminated runoff and sewage from slaughterhouses and feedlots are the main producer of eco-killing bluegreen algae.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

time low during Babe’s box office success. Who would like to torture, kill and slice up their pet? Then eat it! How about shooting Babe, Bambi, Lassi, Flipper or Black Beauty in the head. No takers? Its no wonder. Why does societies scope for compassion have such artificial boundaries? We love our pets, zoo animals and “favourite species” yet turn a blind eye to the millions of innocent animals massacred yearly. Why do we pamper one animal and cannablise the other as dinner? We feel for the victims of Bosnia and Kosovo but remain silent at the violence going on at our local butcher. Maybe we don’t think that animals feel anything. Does a dolphin who carries her dead baby around with her for several days feel love and sorrow? How about the elk calf who gaurds the body of her murdered friend for two days, sniffing and nuzzling the dead calves face. The Prince of Wales Zoo recently witnessed a heartbreaking display of elephant mourning. Elephant Damini wept for 24 days, refusing food or drink in 44 degree heat whilst she lay with the body of her departed friend elephant Champakali who died in childbirth. She eventually died from grief. Its obvious to anyone that humans don’t have an exclusive right on emmotions. Animals also have a limbic emmotional area of their brain, they secrete similar hormones and neurotransmitters in response to situations, they have a developed nervous system and pain receptors just like humans. Do animals experience joy, love, fear, anger? Of course. The only disadvantage animals have is that they can’t express their feelings using human language. Basic understanding of body language will tell you what they’re feeling though. Eyes widened and rolling back in the sockets, heart beating rapidly, hairs standing on end, mouth frothing, muscles trembling, teeth chattering, sphincters loosened, legs shaking as they run, dive, hide, scream or their shells slam shut. These are just some of the symptoms of fear- “the slaughterhouse dance” as one abbattoir worker called it. Do they experience sorrow and loss? Baby elephants who witnessed their families being killed for tusks wake up screaming in the night. Cows bellow for days when separated from their calves. Animal mates waste away and die of sorrow when separated from their partner. Humans have the capacity to exploit and abuse animals but we also have the skills to understand and appreciate them. Due to selfishness or moral cowardice we can abuse our power over animals. It takes courage and mercy to make a stance against the violation of animal rights as well as an acknowledgement of their own silent dignity. As author Alice Walker supported “The animals of the world exist for their own reasons. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for white, or women created for men.” We can get so much more from animals by loving them than by eating them. And our Karmic Bank account will be much richer! The entire life of a captive “food” animal is an unnatural torture of artificial breeding, vicious carstration, hormone stimulation, isolation, an abnormally fattening and artificial diet and the long uncomfortable ride to the screaming finale. One out of ten will miss the closing scene as they die from stress or disease before their bloody end. But animals are killed in a compassionate, humane way aren’t they? I’ll spare the gory details for those who don’t want nightmares. But if you ever visit your butcher again instead of pandering to his flirty small talk why don’t you ask him how his goods made the journey from baby calf to veal cutlet, frolicking piglet to pork crackling, cuddly lamb to roast or loving cow to fillet mignon. For the brave ones who are willing to witness hell on earth, take a stroll down to your local slaughterhouse. Problem is unless you live in the country it’s probably days away. Best to keep all that screaming and blood away from people. It might upset someone! If abbatoirs had glass walls and were closer to home more people would be vegetarian. Why do you think vegie Paul MacCartney risks arrest by sneaking into slaughterhouses to take videos?” -its always been and always will be compassion for animals ” We love him yeh yeh yeh! Holy Cow! We now have scientific evidence that vegetarianism is good for the body. The greatest teachers have always known that it is good for the soul”-Rev Alvin Hart

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Even though religion doesn’t play a major role in many people’s lives today our deep-seated moral and ethical views are unconciously influenced by religious conditioning. “Love they neighbour”, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”, “Thou shalt not kill” are basic character yardsticks. We may profess to honor these yet fail to apply them to our meek and defenceless animal friends. Do we think that a merciful, compassionate God condones this mass torture and slaughter? Most of the world’s major religions and their earliest adherents strongly advocated vegetarianism. Generally, the older the religion-the closer to vegetarianism. Islam, one of the worlds’ youngest religions, isn’t a strong supporter of vegetarianism but ancient Christian, Judaic, Buddhist and Hindu texts support it. Modern denominations such as Seventh Day Adventists, Mormons, Quakers, Sufis, Baha’i, Jainism also endorse vegetarianism. Ancient scriptures embodying the message of major religions suggest that killing animals is absolutely sacrosanct and perpetrators will suffer for their actions. But many Christian texts seem to support meat eating...the modern translations that is. Unfortunately with human’s penchant for “Chinese whispers” and manipulation many scriptures have been conveniently mistranslated, watered down or even edited to attract converts and avoid loosing followers who might seek out an “easier” doctrine. There are 19 references to meat in the gospels but the original Judaic translations refer to food, not meat. Even Jesus’ fish were actually vegetarian fish plant rolls- a popular fast food in his time (makes better picnic food than spoiling fish). In Genesis 1:13 he did say I’ve given every green herb for meat”. Emperor Constantine’s campaign in AD 325 was a classic example. He had all the negative references to meat eating or drinking cut out of the Christian scriptures in order to win a popularity contest. The losers, as always, were the animals.

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Hinduism makes no bones about the karmic repercussions of meat eating. The Sanskrit word for meat ‘maamsa’ means ‘as I eat it now, so it will eat me in the future.’ Karmic retribution echoed by Jesus when he say boys set a snare for birds and commented that they will be caught in a similar snare in the future. Makes you wonder about people choking on fish bones! You don’t have to eat the stuff to get karma. Those who rear, sell, buy, prepare or serve meat are said to suffer equally negative repercussions according to the Hindu texts. Pythagoras explains “he who sows the seed of murder and pain cannot reap joy and love.” In today’s world blowing off someone’s head while wearing a designer suit is cool. Why isn’t compassion cool? Escalating violence in our hearts is bearing out in our actions creating an increasingly frightening environment of war, pestilence and homicide. As Indira Gandhi, late Indian Prime Minister said “everything is related. Whatever happens now to animals will eventually happen to man.” Spiritual vegetarians aim to purify their hearts(of violence and cholesterol!), maintaining a loving bond with animals rather than exploiting them for selfish sense gratification. The highest religious truth is to cherish all life and emulate God’s all-encompassing love and compassion. This promotes global peace at all levels.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

It seems that people were so attached to the taste of meat that great religious leaders made concessions for them, with very strict conditions intact. Buddhists are only supposed to eat meat under three precepts but even then the Dalai Lama says he sees no reason why animals should be killed for food. Deliberately complicated killing regimes would at least reduce the number of animals slaughtered. Since both Jews and Muslims are banned from eating the blood of animals the complicated 14-step “koshering” process of meat preparation was devised. This process subjects animals to pain and terror that makes a POW camp look like Disneyland. And it goes on even as ISIAH 1:15 says “when you pray, I will not hear you for your hands are full of blood.” All the blood isn’t drained out of the meat anyway so they’re kidding themselves. It would be much more consistent to give up meat eating completely as many sincere followers do. Is that such a big sacrifice?

Were the long and painful deaths of both Buddha and Mohammed from meat poisoning a lesson to teach us this? After all Jesus was born in an animal shelter, not an abbatoir. Perfect Vego Diet There is absolutely no nutrient, no protein, no vitamin, no mineral that can’t be obtained from plant-based foods. ~Michael Klaper MD Where do I get my Protein and Iron? “There is absolutely no nutrient, no protein, no vitamin, no mineral that can’t be obtained from plantbased foods” -Michael Klaper MD

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

The same place the powerful elephant, rhino, bullock or hippo get theirs...plant based foods. It’s a fallacy that you have to eat meat to be strong and healthy. Plant protein is preferable to meat protein anyway because meat protein contains more acid forming sulphur amino acids which feed bacteria in the gut unlike plant based sulphur amino acids which are neutralised by the carbohydrates. Vegetable protein also reduces cholesterol by up to 20%. A Harvard study found that vegetarians were consuming twice the minimum daily protein requirement. Leading nutritionist Paavo airola found in his numerous studies that protein was easily available to vegetarians. Even the Encyclopaedia Britanica says “protein obtained from nuts, pulses, grains and dairy products is relatively pure as compared with beef which has 56% impure water content” Its easy to get Iron from plant foods and its assimilated easily with the extra vitamin C and without all the saturated fat, cholesterol and wastes that accompany meat.

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If animals could talk they would thank the following people!

THE WHO”S WHO OF VEGETARIANS

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Annie Lennox Anthony Robbins Billy Idol Bob Dylan Brigette Bardot Brooke Sheilds Charles Darwin Chrissie Hynde Darryl Hannah David Duchovny Drew Barrymore Dustin Hoffman Greg Chappel H.G.Wells Jennie Garth Jim Kerr Jon Anderson (Yes) Judith Durham KD Lang Kim Bassinger Leonado da Vinci Lindsay Wagner Loiusa May Alcoltt Mariel Hemmingway Martina Navratalova Meatloaf Olivia Newton John Percy Shelly Plato Plutarch Richard Gere Rick Allen (Def Leppard) Ruth Rendell Seal Siouxsie Sioux Sir Isaac Newton The Beatles Thomas Eddison William Blake Woody Harrelson Bill Pearl (body builder, Mr. America & Mr. Universe) Katherine Monbiot (World champion arm wrestler)

Albert Einstein: “It is my view that the vegetarian manner of living, by its purely physical effect on the human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind.”

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

Alexandra Paul (Baywatch) Alicia Silverston Belinda Carlisle Billie Jean King Boy George Brad Pitt Bryan Adams Candice Bergen Damon Albarn (Blur) Dannii Minogue Depeche Mode Des’ree Elvis Costello George Bernard Shaw Hayley Mills Henry David Thoreau Joan Armatrading Joan Baez Julie Christie Kate Bush Larry Mullen Lenny Kravitz Lisa Bonet Liv Tyler Mark Twain Martin and Gary Kemp Melissa Etheridge Morrissey Peter Brock Peter Gabriel Prince Ralph Waldo Emmerson Ricki Lake Robert Smith Shirley Bassey Sinead O’Connor Spike Milligan Terence Stamp Tolstoy Virginnia McKenna Yasmin Le Bon Yehudi Menuhin Dave Scott (5 times winner iron man triathalon)

OMNIVORES &VEGETARIANS

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MEAT EATING ANIMALS Has claws No skin pores; perspire through tongue Sharp, pointed front teeth to tear flesh Small salivary glands in the mouth (not needed to predigest grains and fruits.) Acid saliva; no enzyme, to predigest grains. No flat back molar teeth to grind food Very strong hydrochloric acid in stomach to digest tough animal muscles, bone etc. Intestinal tract only 3 times body length so rapidly decaying meat can pass out of body through body quickly. Meat putrefies in intestine due to slow transit time Enzymes uricase to breakdown uric acid Have the ability to excrete large amouts of cholesterol

VEGETARIAN ANIMALS No claws Perspire through millions of skin pores No sharp pointed front teeth Well-developed salivary glands needed to predigest grains and fruits. alkaline saliva; much ptylin to predigest grains

HUMAN BEINGS No claws Perspire through millions of skin pores No sharp pointed front teeth Well-developed salivary glands needed to predigest grains and fruits. Alkaline saliva; much ptylin to predigest grains

Flat back molar teeth to grind food. Stomach acid 10 times weaker than meat eaters. Intestinal tract 6 times body length; fruits do not decay as rapidly as meat.

Flat back molar teeth to grind food. Stomach acid 10 times weaker than meat eaters. Intestinal tract 6 times body length; fruits do not decay as rapidly as meat.

Not present Unable to excrete large amounts of cholesterol

Not present Unable to excrete large amounts of cholesterol

Where do you fit in?

“In the future all intelligent people 02 will be vegetarian, so why not give up 97 now?”- Chrissie Hynde

Energies of the world Vibration A U M

God Brahma Vishnu Shiva

Planetary Air Sun Moon

Energies Praana Tejas Ojas

Modes Satva Rajas Tamas

Channel Sushumna Pingala Ida

Physiology Vata Pitta Kapha

Quality Neutral Hot Cold

Home Work 1) Collect 3 therapeutic uses and 3 nutrients for each food item from page 58 onwards. 2) Read the article (Why’s everyone vegging out?) and share your thoughts. 3) Explain one of your past health events in terms of doshas. 4) Explain one of your past health events in terms of elements. 5) Explain one of your past health events in terms of channels. 6) Explain one of your past health events in terms of agni and ama.

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

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Body type analysis

>> Tall Short Angular Curvaceous Rectangular Slender Small Muscular Soft Solid Circle the main features of body. ether

air

fire

water

earth

Dominant features in geometrical shapes are ……………………… Dominant elements are ………………………

>> Tall Short Angular Curvaceous Rectangular Slender Small Muscular Soft Solid Circle the main features of body. ether

air

fire

water

earth

Dominant features in geometrical shapes are ……………………… Dominant elements are ………………………

Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754



>> Tall Short Angular Curvaceous Rectangular Slender Small Muscular Soft Solid Circle the main features of body. ether

air

fire

water

earth

Dominant features in geometrical shapes are ……………………… Dominant elements are ………………………

>> Tall Short Angular Curvaceous Rectangular Slender Small Muscular Soft Solid Circle the main features of body. ether

air

fire

water

earth

Dominant features in geometrical shapes are ……………………… Dominant elements are ………………………

>> Tall Short Angular Curvaceous Rectangular Slender Small Muscular Soft Solid Circle the main features of body. ether

air

fire

water

earth

Dominant features in geometrical shapes are ……………………… Dominant elements are ………………………

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Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

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Ayurveda Elements 17 Orchard Rd Chatswood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

annam

foods

annam

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Grains Barley

Slightly dry, cool, sweet and light, barley reduces vata and pitta. It is especially used as a soup during convalescence and barley water with coconut water is used for treating urinary stones, colic and respiratory diseases.

Corn

Corn silk tea is used to treat urinary tract infections, prostrate enlargement and water retention.

Rice

Sweet, light and cooling, rice is especially indicated to lower high pitta imbalances. As a soup it is the most common food given to people during illness, especially during fevers, intestinal disorders and in convalescence.

Wheat

Sweet, cool, heavy and unctuous, wheat helps the tissues to adhere together, stabilises vata and pitta, and is strengthening and aphrodisiac.

Legumes Considered the most healthy legume, mung beans are astringent, sweet, cool and pungent in post-digestive effect. Good for all doshas mung beans are very nourishing and purifying, especially when made into a kitchari meal.

Peas, lentils

These are astringent and sweet in taste, cool, light and pungent vipaka. So they tend to increase vata but they are beneficial for high kapha conditions.

Sesame

Charaka includes this under the category of legumes. It is sweet, bitter, astringent and hot and has a sweet post- digestive effect. Since it is oily and heavy it promotes kapha and pitta while is the main medium for healing vata. The oil is used very successfully as the base for most of the external oil treatments in Ayurveda. It is a rejuvenative for teeth and bones. In amenorrhea black sesame seeds are used.

Urad dal

Astringent and sweet in taste, hot in potency and sweet in post-digestive effect, urad dal cures vata and quickly imparts virility. It is beneficial for the nervous system and for cough and fever due to weakness. It is considered the highest non-animal source of protein and is sometimes shunned by celibates due to it’s aphrodisiac effect.

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Mung beans

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Bitter melon

A very bitter vegetable which is taken first in a meal to stimulate gastric secretions and it is also taken by diabetic to keep their blood sugar stable.

Cucumber

Sweet, heavy and cooling, cucumber slows the movement of food through the intestines and is diuretic. It apparently helps to reduce toxicity due to alcohol and is applied to the skin as a cooling astringent.

Garlic

Garlic possesses five of the six tastes, lacking only sour. It is good in many disease conditions, lowering vata and kapha and increasing pitta, but it should be used in moderation during health as it makes the mind intolerant and increases rajas and tamas. One of the reasons garlic is such a potent medicine is that it penetrates to all parts of the body very quickly. Its most prominent effects include aphrodisiac, anthelmintic, anti-bacterial strengthens the memory, improves the complexion, digestion and tissue nutrition. It has been used to treat lung disorders, typhoid and diphtheria, to reduce cholesterol and to scavenge heavy metals from the tissue.

Ginger

Known as the “Universal Remedy”, ginger is pungent in taste yet sweet in postdigestive effect. It balances vata and kapha and if taken in excess may increase pitta, therefore it is not taken in high-pitta conditions. Ginger is especially used to promote digestion and appetite and to relieve bloating due to gas. It prevents motion sickness and is given with rock salt and cumin with water after meals in chronic diarrhoea. Ginger is also given with castor oil in order to detoxify the body and with honey, black pepper and long pepper (piper longum) for cough and bronchitis. Mixed with a fenugreek decoction and honey it is given for the flu and for dry cough or nausea it is given with mint juice, lemon and honey.

Leafy veges

Tend to be good for pitta and kapha and not so good for vata.

Okra

Good for all doshas, it is high in protein and mucilage hence making it soothing in dysentery. A good diuretic that is useful in urinary tract disorders.

Onion

Although onions promote kapha and decrease vata, it is another remedy only to be taken in illness due to it’s tamasic effect on the mind. Onions are sweet and pungent in taste and sweet in post-digestive effect. Onion juice is used in innumerable home remedies for gas, ear and eye infections, sterility, nosebleeds, asthma, bronchitis diarrhoea, haemorrhoids, rheumatism and hair loss. The crushed paste is put on the soles of the feet to treat headaches and smelling crushed onion is useful for nausea and vomiting.

Root veges

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(Beetroots, carrots, parsnips, radishes, swedes and turnips) Since they are heavy and earthy these tend to increase kapha and pitta. They are considered

difficult to digest.

Fruits Raw, apples are sweet in taste, cold in action and pungent after digestion therefore they tend to increase vata. The whole raw fruit aids constipation yet the browned pulp or juice controls diarrhoea.

Banana

Cold and heavy, banana is to be avoided by those with sluggish digestion. The fruit is said to be aphrodisiac while a little unripe and cooked it is a popular home remedy for diarrhoea, particularly in children. The ripe banana and the powder of unripe banana are stomachic and used to cure ulcers and acidity.

Coconut

Sweet, oily and cool, the coconut strengthens and builds up the body. Coconut water flushes out the kidneys and cools the system. Coconut oil is used more than any other oil to strengthen the hair.

Date

The date is sweet, aphrodisiac, heavy, cool and builds the body. They reduce vata and pitta.

Fig

Sweet, nourishing, strengthening, heavy, laxative, cooling, figs control vata and pitta.

Guava

Eaten without the rind it will cause constipation. So the unripe fruit is used to control diarrhoea

02 104Lime

Sour, bitter, astringent, cooling and sweet in post-digestive effect, it can aggravate elevated pitta. Its juice is applied externally on bites, skin eruptions and on the scalp to remove dandruff. It is used to treat diarrhoea and taken before meals to aid digestion. It is also used to treat fevers, constipation, liver disorders, poisoning, gout, rheumatoid arthritis and cataracts.

Mango

The ripe fruit is laxative, diuretic and cools the blood. It pacifies vata and increases flesh and semen. The bark is used to treat uterine haemorrhage, haemoptysis and diarrhoea. The kernel inside the seed cures diarrhoea. The unripe mango increases pitta.

Orange

Sweet, slightly sour and heavy, oranges promote appetite and cure vata.

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Apple

Pear

The hard variety will increase vata, but the usual soft variety will control all doshas. Heavy and cool.

Pomegranate

The fruit rind and root bark are astringent and bitter, while the fruit is sour, sweet, astringent, cooling and sweet after digestion. When sweet it controls all three doshas and cures vata and pitta, while sour it aggravates pitta and vata. The sweet fruit juice is good in diarrhoea and worms. The seeds are made into a digestive powder and the root bark is given for worms.

Tamarind

Sour and hot, tamarind when ripe decreases vata and kapha. Tamarind is used to stimulate appetite and digestion and to promote bowel movements. The seeds are soaked and taken for leucorrhoea and backache.

Nuts

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Most nuts

are sweet, heavy, oily, hot, aphrodisiac and strengthening. They build up the body but can aggravate all doshas. Almonds are considered the most superior, rejuvenative nut. They are high in calcium and alkalising.

Dairy Buttermilk

This is the whey left after churning yogurt to make butter. It reduces vata and kapha and cleans the channels. It promotes the capacity of the tissue to absorb nutrients. It is a remedy for piles, assimilation disorders, diarrhoea and dysentery. It is also commonly used in treating edema, suppression of urine, 02 loss of appetite, indigestion, anaemia and many other diseases. 105

Ghee

Sweet before and after digestion, cow’s ghee is the best substance to cure vata and pitta. It promotes memory, intelligence, the digestive fire, semen, ojas and fat. It removes toxicity from the system and is used as a remedy in insanity, consumption and chronic fever.

Milk

Milk fresh from the cow, boiled, strained and aerated is considered to be ambrosia for the body. It is especially good for children, emaciated people, those who are sexually active and insomniacs. Since cow’s milk shares many qualities of ojas being sweet, cool, unctuous, thick, glossy, viscid, heavy and clear, it is said to nourish ojas and is foremost among vitalizers and rejuvenators. Human milk is vitalizing and is used as nose drops in nose bleeds and as an

eye application in eye disorders. Yogurt

Sweet, sour, hot and sour after digestion, yogurt cures vata and increases pitta and kapha. Good for treating certain types of diarrhoea, fevers, loss of appetite, urinary problems and emaciation but should be avoided in hot seasons, kapha or pitta conditions. It should not be taken daily for a long time.

Spices

Pungent, sweet and hot, it reduces both vata and kapha and increases pitta. For respiratory congestion it is given with cinnamon and cardamom.

Black pepper

Pungent and hot and pungent in post digestive effect. It decreases kapha and vata and increases pitta only slightly. It is sprinkled on cold food, such as cucumbers, melons and bananas to counteract their coldness. It breaks down toxins or ama in the body and mixed with ginger and long pepper, it is used to ignite digestion and to treat colds and respiratory congestion. It is also made into a medicated ghee to relieve sinus congestion and headache.

Caraway

Pungent, bitter and hot and pungent in post digestive eff ect. Caraway controls vata and kapha and can increase pitta. It’s Indian cousin. Ajowan is used mainly for the digestive tract, especially for gas, colic and to ignite the digestive fire.

Cardamom

Sweet, bitter and astringent in taste, and sweet post digestive. Cardamom reduces all three doshas, yet may increase kapha in excess. It increases the digestive fire and ojas and hence it rejuvenates the whole system. It is good mixed with a milk based sweet, and chewed after meals as a digestive. It aids indigestion, gas, piles, urinary complaints, heart weakness, cough, asthma, consumption and heat in the body and mind. It is added to coffee to relieve acidity.

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Chillies

Pungent, hot and pungent in post-digestive effect. Chillies reduce kapha and increase pitta. Excess use will eventually heat the system. Its main use is to ignite the digestive fire, but it should be taken with ghee to counteract it’s heating properties.

Cinnamon

Pungent sweet and bitter in taste, and hot in potency, but sweet in postdigestive effect. Cinnamon controls both vata and kapha without aggravating pitta. It is used as an application in toothache, headache and impotence.

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Bay leaf

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Coriander

Sweet, slightly pungent and very cooling, coriander leaves relieve both pitta and vata and help to remove heat from the system, especially in the intestines and eyes. The juice is often drunk to alleviate hay fever, eye problems and to relieve skin diseases.

Cumin

Pungent, slightly hot and pungent after digestion, cumin controls both vata and kapha without aggravating pitta. It is often used to ease digestive upsets like gas and cramps.

Fennel

The seed is sweet, pungent, bitter, cooling and sweet post-digestively decreasing all the doshas. It is often chewed after meals with cardamom and rock sugar to prevent gas and gallstones and women utilise it’s oestrogenic effect by taking it as a decoction to increase breast milk, alleviate PMT and regulate menstruation. Fennel oil is a decongestant and improves coughs.

Fenugreek

Pungent, sweet, hot and pungent after digestion, fenugreek reduces vata and kapha and increases pitta if taken in excess. It cleanses the lymphatic system and is therefore very useful in purifying the skin and the respiratory system. The tea promotes sweating in influenza, purifies and promotes breast milk and regulates menstruation. It is given with valerian to treat insomnia, depression and neurosis. The paste of the seeds purifies boils and abscesses and it has been used as a shampoo to prevent early hair loss.

Mustard

Heating and pungent in post-digestive effect, mustard seeds are mostly taken in winter to increase the general circulation and heat in the body thus preventing colds and coughs.

02 107 post-digestive

Nutmeg

Pungent, bitter and astringent and hot and pungent in effect, nutmeg reduces vata and kapha and increases pitta. In Ayurveda it is commonly used to calm the nerves of the lower abdomen and therefore is of use in diarrhoea and dysmenorrhoea. It is given with buttermilk to treat diarrhoea and with milk to induce sleep and control premature ejaculation and bed wetting.

Saffron

Pungent, bitter and sweet, hot and sweet after digestion, saffron controls and balances all the doshas. It is mainly used to treat disorders of the reproductive system, regulating menses, relieving dysmenorrhoea and PMT and promoting fertility. It is one of the oldest aphrodisiacs known and is also used with milk to relieve digestive and respiratory congestion.

Turmeric

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Bitter, astringent and hot, and pungent after digestion, turmeric balances kapha and pitta and in excess may aggravate vata. Turmeric is used both internally and externally to purify the body and mind. It is a good anti-bacterial herb and a strong blood purifier. It is used for liver disorders, asthma, eye drops, boils and to beautify the skin in general.