Nature cure

Neurotherapyindia.com

1. State the principles & philosophy of Nature cure

Nature cure, first came into vogue in the 19th century, due to the efforts of Vinzenz Priessnitz, of Grafenberg, Germany. It is an art & science of elimination of diseases without drugs. It is a way of life, in tune with the internal life-giving forces composing the human entity on the physical, mental and spiritual planes of being. It includes all hygienic measures such as proper dieting and exercise, fasting, rest and relaxation, pranayama (controlled breathing practices), mud therapy, hydro-therapy and sunbathing - all of which form a part of 5-fold food medicine.

In the words of Gandhiji, “Nature cure is not merely a cure after a disease has occurred, BUT a method to prevent a disease altogether, by living according to the laws of nature.”

Philosophy of Nature Cure

· Doctor treats, nature cures/heals. “Nature is the greatest Doctor.” Healing comes from within.

· Man - a product of the five elements - is governed by natural laws.

· Vitality or Life Force - is the force which is responsible for all actions going on within the body - including digestion, assimilation & elimination, locating / throwing out foreign matter from the body; routine repairs and maintenance.

· Do all the 'right' actions - right living-i.e., right eating, breathing, thinking, doing. Violation of these natural laws leads to a diseased state of the body.

· Violation of Laws of Nature may be due to :

Ignorance Lack of Self Control (Self) Indulgence Indifference

leading to :

Ø Lowered Vitality

Ø Accumulation of wastes and toxins and

Ø Abnormal composition of blood and lymph.

· The symptoms that accompany an acute disease means that Vitality is deranged. They come as the result of a cleansing and healing effort of nature.

· Chronic disease is due to suppression of diseases by symptomatic treatment by drugs / medicines.

· Body has power to heal itself. Cure is achieved by :-

· Tracing the cause of the disease and not going by symptoms alone;

· Cleansing is the first step of cure;

· Preventing recurrence; and

· Improving the individual's life style and thought process.

· Treatment is based on natural laws and uses the elements of nature - from which we are made i.e., mud, sun, water, nature etc. It can be integrated with other therapies also.

· Fasting is the Supreme medicine. It provides rest to digestive organs - so that Vitality can concentrate on maintenance and repair.

· Practice Self denial and not Self indu1gence - the former increases vital force; the latter depletes it.

Principles of Nature cure

· Non violence to the human organism is the basic principle.

· Human body has self constructing and self healing powers.

· Disease is a natural cleansing process - do not hinder it.

· Root cause of all diseases - not germs but accumulation of waste toxins

· Root cause is the same; so treatment methodology is also similar.

· Holistic approach - Heal both mind and body

· Simplest and least costly treatment methods, predominantly using natural resources - enema, fasting, hydrotherapy, different types of baths, sun salute, yogasanas, pranayama, kriyas etc.

Treatment methodology

Nature cure treatment assists nature by following methods :-

à Stimulating the organs of purification and elimination for better functioning à So, wastes and toxins are removed from the body à This frees blood vessels, nerves and lymphatics à Restores normal blood supply to diseased organs à Balances activities of the glands àBoosts Vitality à Thus restores health

2. Differentiate between Basic naturopathy & modem naturopathy

Basic naturopath	Modern naturopathy
Drugless system without external accessories, incorporating methods which a patient can employ himself.	Drugless system, but uses certain simple accessories. Requires another person to act as doctor as well as therapist.
Its main principle is that the root cause of all diseases is accumulation of wastes and toxins. If you give the body sufficient rest, it is fully capable to rid the body of those toxins without any outside help .	Modern naturopaths have forgotten that accumulation of waste / toxins is the root cause of all diseases. They insist that certain outside agents are necessary to set right the body.
Methods used: · Fasting · Sun cure · Water cure (hydrotherapy) · Air cure (air baths ) pranayama) · Positive diet · Mental healing	It employs one or more of the following: Chromotherapy Osteopathy Electrotherapy Chiropractice Magneto therapy Acupressure Homeopathy (seldom)

3. Describe the technique, effect and advantages of sun therapy.

In our country, sunbathing and Surya Namaskar (Sun Salute), have been popular for thousands of years. Our ancestors were quite aware of the benefits of these practices. The following verse which is chanted at the end of Surya Namaskar during the practice of yogasanas is proof of this:

“ a;]dTySy nmSk;r;n= y' k/vE]Nt ]dn' ]dn' : a;y/+ ^7; bl. v}yE. t'j+ t'z;. c j;yt' :: ”

Meaning : Daily practice of the sun salute bestows the following qualities: Longevity, deep awareness and knowledge, strength, vitality, and charisma.

However, Dr. Niles of Denmark was the first to use of sun’s rays for curing diseases, for which he received theNobel prize in 1903. He was followed by Finsen, who used sun’s rays to successfully cure skin cancer.

The sun plays an important role in our life in the following ways:

Ø UV (Ultra violet) rays sterilize the atmospheric air by killing germs.

Ø Green plants absorb sunlight; give out oxygen; bear fruits & vegetables for our food.

Ø Though calcium is available from fruits and vegetables, it cannot be utilized in our body in the absence of vitamin D. Sunlight helps in synthesis of Vitamin D.

Methods of suncure

Sunbath, Surya Namaskar and by using oils and waters kept in bottles of different colors and exposed to the sun’s rays.

Sunbath

This improves the blood and nervous circulation and development of the entire body.

Suncharged oils and waters

Fill a glass bottle with oil or water; wrap it with a transparent paper of appropriate color. Leave it in the sun for a few weeks. This oil or water charged by the sun’s rays may be drunk, or used for external application and is used to treat many disorders.

Uses of sun therapy

Improves digestion, eyesight, circulation and is necessary for healthy bones and teeth. Removes debility and general weakness and is beneficial for all types of skin troubles.

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salute) improves overall physical and mental development.

4. "Nature never betrays the heart that loved her" - said Keats. Explain.

Also give the rules to be followed for healthy living

We are children of nature. If we submit to & obey her laws, she will take care of us like a mother. Though slow, her methods are efficacious and beneficial.

Let us be near to Mother Nature by :

Walking bare-footed in sand/grass * Taking sunbath /bathing in rivers

Walking in the moonlight Going out in the open fresh air Sleeping on the ground with minimum bedding Drinking fresh water from streams

* Note : Mentally challenged children benefit greatly from standing in the sun.

Those who have club feet improve from standing in a bucket of sand.

Walking on the sand or taking sun bath improves eyesight.

Like a mother nursing a sick child, during an acute phase of illness, Mother Nature through Vitality - cleans up and tones the body - by throwing out accumulated toxins and morbid matter, through vomit, excess sweat, urination or diarrhea - and restores health. Let us not interfere with her process by taking drugs at that time. It is due to her kindness that we attain a state of health.

This very loving Mother has provided us with this splendid soil to cultivate crops to maintain life, the flora and the fauna, the rivers, lakes, and ponds for water; the sun to destroy toxins and light to provide us with heat; the green plants to enrich and oxygenate our atmosphere. Let us have faith in Mother Earth and her laws. And shape our life according to her laws. If one wishes to have a life full of health and free from disease, one has to return to Mother Nature. This is the key to perfect health and well-being.

Rules to be followed for healthy living

Have faith in the healing power of nature.

Try to stay in open, fresh air.

As far as possible, do not drift away from nature.

For external cleansing, have a bath daily.

For internal cleansing, everyday, in little quantities, have a warm water enema.

Drink water at regular intervals; however do not take a large amount at a time.

Fast regularly.

During a fast :

Do easy yogasanas or light exercise;

Do pranayama or deep breathing exercises in open air.

For about half an hour, have dim sunlight on skin.

Massage your body and spine as necessary.

Do not get frightened by Healing Crisis, if it occurs.

To keep mental balance :

Never get depressed. Offer regular prayers to God.

Have only positive thoughts.

Be happy and have healthy entertainment.

Safeguard your Vitality.

5. Differentiate between Fasting and starvation.

What is a fast? How should a fast be broken?

Starvation

When, in spite of natural hunger, a person does not take food, either due to inability to procure food or abstention without reason, it is called as starvation. This makes body weak and can even cause death from starvation.

Fasting

It is said that "Dirt is disease; hygiene is health."

Fasting is - Total abstinence from food. It is a non-violent system undertaken out of own free will, to improve normal health or to maintain and restore health, if deranged.

Dr. Arnold Eheret calls fasting as "nature's only universal and omnipotent remedy for healing" It is the Master Key towards health or removal of diseases.

Why and when should we undertake fasting?

Frequent eating, or overeating, impairs the digestive system. So body does not get essential minerals and vitamins. So organs and cells .are depleted of vital energy.

Fasting during health improves appetite, increases digestive power. It gives rest to digestive, assimilative and protective organs. As a result, digestion of food and utilization of nutrients is greatly improved. Thus, it gives us good health and generally protects us from all ailments. It also exerts a normalizing, stabilizing and rejuvenating effect on all vital, physiological, nervous and mental functions.

Fasting during an illness, starves the toxins and so they perish. It gives rest to digestive organs. Vitality then starts its cleansing action, removing accumulated dirt, toxins and poisons. Excess fat is lost. It improves digestion and brings out ‘true hunger’. Body gets overhauled, vitality is strengthened and disease is totally removed. Thus the body is restored to its normal state.

Benefits of fasting:

Provides rest to the digestive organs. Gets rid of toxins

Gives time to Vitality to start internal cleansing.

Rules for breaking a fast

Observe fast till you get a feeling of true and natural hunger, get sound peaceful sleep and all manifestations of disease have disappeared. Pray for a couple of minutes.

Take small quantity of black grapes, sweet lime or oranges or their juice.

After breaking the fast:

No heavy food should be taken:

Take fresh fruit juices for 1-2 days; fruit diet for next 2-3 days;

next, uncooked food, sprouted moong, salads, cereals, dates, coconuts, groundnuts.

Only after 10-12 days, you may resume original diet.

Avoid dry fruits such as walnuts, almonds, nuts etc while breaking a fast.

After a long fast, a great feeling of hunger is felt. One should be careful not to eat too much or in a hurry.

6. Define Chromotherapy. Describe the color, cure and efficacy of different organs of the body.

Chromotherapy is a drugless method which uses sunlight or different colors to restore a body to normal state. The Father of this theory – Rudolph Steiner believed that Seven energy centres run throughout the body. Each color of the solar spectrum has a unique effect on spiritual, emotional and physical health.

Patients can either bathe in the light, wear clothes, get their rooms painted, or eat foods having a particular color, suiting their physical, emotional and psychological make-up.

Color	Useful in
Violet	Weakness of brain, leucorrhea, nervous breakdown. Contra-indicated for: Paralysis, cold and anemia.
Indigo	Weak eyesight, pain in eyes, ear ache, loss of sense of smell or taste, cold and cough, hysteria, loss of appetite.
Blue	Soothens pain, improves metabolism. Useful to treat stress, HBP, anxiety, itching, headaches, toothaches, colitis, smallpox or chicken pox, cholera, plague and jaundice. Contra-indicated for: Paralysis, cold and anemia.
Green	Weakness of heart, BP, piles, cramps, cancer, inflammations, night seminal discharges, weeping eczema. It is a mild sedative.
Yellow	Constipation, sluggish liver, indigestion, dropsy (edema), Diabetes Mellitus, kidney disorders, eye defects. Eat yellow vegetables & fruits. Contra-indicated for: hyper-activity of nerves, delirium, heart palpitation.
Orange	Blood and nerve stimulant, slows pulse rate, kidney/gall stones, hernia, arthritis, rheumatism, asthma. Eat carrots, oranges etc.
Red	Physical weakness, paralysis, laziness, rheumatism. Useful for menstrual problems, fatigue, depressions, headaches. Eat plenty of beets, red spinach, red berries, water melon. Contra-indicated for: fevers, boils, inflammatory disorders.

7. Drug is worse than disease - explain

Modern medical systems treat the symptoms, without setting right the root cause.

Dr. Wi1liam Osler writes: “When drugs are used, the patient has to recover twice - once from the illness, and once from the drug.”

Why drugs are harmful

Ø They hinder Vitality i.e., the self-healing efforts of the body.

Ø They may produce dietary deficiencies by destroying nutrients, using them up and preventing their absorption.

Ø They produce toxicity at a time when the body is least capable of coping with it.

Ø They do not cure the disease; they only change its pattern. So they pave the way for chronic diseases. For example, antibiotics such as Ciproflaxin or Galifloxin cause severe acidity which takes quite a few months to become OK.

Ø Thus drugs may sometimes prove disastrous and worse than the disease itself.

8. Explain how we can prepare 'Green Water/Oil' and 'Red oil' through chromotherapy. Describe the benefits of green and red oils.

Take distilled water or oil in a bottle. Cover it with paper of suitable color. Cork it tightly; and place on a block of wood; place it in the sun for 3-10 hours daily for 3 months. Later we can drink the water or use the oil for massage. Usually green and red colors are used.

Benefits of Green water

Soothing for eyes As a mild sedative To treat cancers

Weakness of heart BP Inflammatory conditions

Green oil : Fill Gingelly/coconut oil in a green-colored bottle.

Benefits:

All types of wounds, pimples, eczema/ skin disorders. Keeps head cool, prevents colds, cataracts, premature graying of hair. Reduces nightfall in men and menstrual disorders in women. A hot poultice relieves joint pains and boils.

Good for pains / pus / hearing loss in right ear.

Red Oil Fill mustard oil in a red-colored bottle.

Benefits :

Energising, used for physical debility, paralysis, rheumatism and arthritis.

Massage over abdomen for treating menstrual problems & for pains below the waist.

Applying this oil on the genitals and sitting in the sun for an hour rejuvenates males who complain of inability to have sustained erection.

In pneumonia, massage the oil on the chest and back - avoiding the region of the heart. Sometimes, pains of old wounds may be felt during winter or monsoon.

Massaging with this oil, brings relief in such cases.

Good for pains / pus / hearing loss in left ear.

9. Describe the technique, effect and advantages of mud therapy.

Gandhiji was a great advocate of this therapy. He says: “The Earth has a unique power of extracting out the toxins and poisons from your body. Heal this idol made of earth (i.e., man) with earth (i.e., mud)”.

The human body is composed of the 5 elements of nature. Earth is one of the five remedies of Nature cure. It relieves inner congestion by drawing blood to the surface; thus removing waste matter.

Emmanuel Folke said : “Clay or moistened mud is the only true natural bandage.”

Types of mud used:

Potter's clay Mud from farms from 2-3ft. depth

Multani Mitti Mud from bottom of river or well

Technique:

The mud should be free from impurities. Keep in sunlight for 12 hours to get rid of worms/insects etc. Then soak in clean cold water for another 12 hours. Then filter the soaked mud through a thin cloth. And use the fine mud which comes out in the filtrate.

How to apply: As packs, mud pethas and poultices. Spread the mud with a wooden spoon evenly on a piece of cloth which is cut to a size slightly bigger than the affected area. The paste is then placed gently with mud touching the skin. The cloth is allowed to stay for 15-30 minutes, with the patient covered up in a blanket.

Mud bath: This is useful when the whole body is to be given mud treatment.

Technique:

Spread clay on a big sheet. Let the patient lie down on it. Wrap up the patient in it;

and cover it again with another blanket. After 15-20 min. end up with a jet spray or cold shower. Take care that the mud should not go into the eyes.

Effect & Advantages of Mud packs on different regions:

Head	Keeps scalp cool; improves hair texture.
Forehead	Headaches. Fever decreases when applied on forehead and abdomen.
Eyes *	Refreshes and relieves sore, tired eyes.
Face	Removes wrinkles and blackheads, makes the face youthful.
Neck	Relieves tonsillitis, pharyngitis, coughs etc.
Stomach	Rumbling sensation, digestion, constipation, flatulence, dysentery.
Lower Abdomen	Urinary troubles, urine retention; burning micturition; For menstrual troubles, apply prior to onset of menses.
Whole Abdomen	Helps conception; prevents miscarriages. ( The lady should sleep with legs raised 4"-6" high )
Skin	Beautifies complexion; good for bee, insect, scorpion bites, suppurative boils (= boils with pus), ulcers; eczema, pimples etc. Reduces wrinkles.
Joints/bones	Apply after hot fomentation - good for rheumatic pains.

Precautions of mud therapy:

· Never use bare hands or fingers while stirring or applying the mud. the mud. Use a wooden stick to mix the mud to the consistency of soft dough. When used in a pack, it should stick and should not slide down.

· Never apply mud directly on bleeding wounds. First stop the bleeding by using an ice-cold pack or by washing with ice-cold water.

· If there is pus on a wound, first place a thin cloth soaked in coconut oil and then apply mud. Otherwise the mud may stick to the wound and cause pain when the pack is to be removed.

· When a hot mud pack is to be used, place it and remove it after a few seconds alternately. Continue in this fashion till the patient is able to bear the heat well.

· Finally place the pack on the affected area and cover it with another cloth to retain the heat for a longer time.

· Mud may be applied on all places except, inside the the eyes, the nostrils and the ears.

10. Describe the different kinds, methods and benefits of scientific massage.

Massage is a ‘passive form of exercise.’

Ø It is a scientific manipulation of body tissue with the hands.

Ø It softens and relaxes parts which have become hardened.

Ø It forces the stagnant and impure blood out of the arteries and brings in new oxygenated blood to the tissues, thereby restoring the flow of energy.

Ø It promotes a sense of well being by releasing powerful natural pain killers in the body.

Ø Thus it benefits the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems.

Kinds of massage: Oil massage, Hot massage, Cold massage, Dry massage etc.

Oil massage - is the most effective, though its effects are felt only after some time. The least amount of oil is used, just sufficient to permit the hands to glide smoothly over the skin. ' Bot massage - is just as effective as oil massage. Here the hands are warmed either by friction or over a heater or a low flame. Brings quick relief in body pains.

Cold massage - Soak a soft towel in cold water and then squeeze out all the water from it. Fold it suitably, and use it to press all over the body. Stimulates the body and releases tense and spastic muscles. Afterwards, wipe the whole body with a dry towel.

Dry massage - A small quantity of talcum powder is used to facilitate the hands to glide smoothly. Reduces unwanted accumulation of fat from the skin. Extremely beneficial for reducing obesity. Sun salute should be performed after this massage.

Techniques: All movements are towards the heart or towards the stomach.

Effleurage	Stroking & gliding movement with the palms; this technique precedes all other massage techniques.
Friction	Circular movements towards/ around the joints, with finger tips / thumbs. Breaks / removes the deposits around the joints.
Patrissage	Circular squeezing movements using thumbs and fingers. Helps eliminate waste products.
Tapotment	Rapid, gentle tapping & beating over head & lumbar region. Removes fat, increases blood supply, provides nutrition to those regions.
Vibration	by electrical massager, for Neuritis.
Hacking	Uses sides of both hands, fingers relaxed but slightly curved.

Benefits of massage - Most useful for

Backache Constipation Cramps in calf muscles

Headache Insomnia Lumbago Numbness

Polio Paralysis Premature wrinkling Rheumatism Sprains Stiffness Sciatica Sense of well-being

Contra-indicated for

Angina Pectoris Abdomen in pregnancy Eczema

Hypertension Migraine Phlebitis

Thrombosis Unidentified lump Varicose veins

11. What is Wheat grass therapy? Describe its advantages and uses.

Method of preparation : This therapy was discovered by Dr. Bigmore of USA.

Take about 10 small-sized pots filled with wet soil and natural fertilizers. On the first day, place a handful of wheat in the first pot. The pot should be kept in the shade only. Continue sowing in this fashion for the next 9 days. By the 10th day, the grass in the first pot would have grown to a height of 8-10 inches. Cut the top only, leaving the stem to grow further. Continue in similar fashion on other days. Fresh wheat may be sown when necessary.

Advantages : It has the ability to cure ANY type of disease. It is known as ‘Green Blood’ because it increases the body’s resistance power. Its juice is naturally sweet & contains Vitamin B17 - an anti-cancer vitamin. Its chlorophyll is a rich source of Magnesium. It contains Vitamin B2 , vitamin E, thiamine, niacin and zinc - all essential for proper production / functioning of enzymes as well as for nervous activities.

Dosage: Each pot will yield about ½ a glass of juice. This is to be taken early morning on an empty stomach. The juice should be consumed within one hour of preparation; otherwise the benefit of chlorophyll will be lost. Avoid coffee, tea and all artificial foods.

Eat light simple home-made diet with lots of fruits & vegetables. Continue this therapy for at least a few months.

Uses : Good for anemia, acidity, common cold, constipation, indigestion cancers, ulcers, worms, skin disorders such as - acne/pimples, eczema, boils, cuts & wounds, insect bites etc. Extremely useful in treating diabetes, kidney, heart & blood disorders. More than ½ glass at a time, may cause loose motions.

12. Write notes on : yoga and pranayama

Yoga is not only a science but a way of life. Its ultimate aim is to raise a person from

an ordinary human being to a super human approaching divinity. It is a system

which has been in vogue in India for thousands of years.

Though a number of rishis and sages have been associated with this ancient science, the most important contribution has come from Sage Patanjali in the form of Sutras or versified formulas. According to Sage Patanjali, yoga has an eight-fold path called ‘angas’. Each one of them is to be practiced diligently to take one to the goal of self-realisation or ‘Kaivalya’. The two important benefits of a yogic way of life are summed up in the following quotes:-

Yogah karmasu kaushalam - Yoga means excellence in all actions.

Samatvam yoga uchyate - Yoga means Equanimity in every activity

To achieve this we have to follow the eight-fold path of Patanjali. The 8 ‘angas’ are :

Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi

The first five ‘angas’ elate to the relationship of the human with the external universe.

The last three relate ‘angas’ to the mind - the internal universe.

Yama and Niyama are the Do's and Don'ts.

The five Yamas are the Don’ts -

Satya - Speak no lies (Don’t speak lies)

Ahimsa - Non-violence towards any person or thing. (Don’t be violent)

Brahmacharya - Non-licentiousness (Don’t indulge in forbidden pleasures)

Astheya - Non stealing or non-covetousness

(Don’t desire things that do not belong to you)

Aparigraha - Do not hoard; do not develop attachment to worldly objects.

The 5 Niyamas are the Do’s - i.e., what one MUST DO to achieve mental calmness.

Shoucha - Cleanliness, both internal and extemal

Santosha - Satisfied & contented with what we have at all times.

Tapa - Practicing austerity while doing one's duty, in spite of all odds.

Swadhyaya - Constant study, discuss and meditate upon the Divine

Iswara Pranidhan - Surrender to the Almighty

The above 10 are to be made a way of life. They strengthen and discipline the mind.

The next two ‘angas’ are practices for disciplining the body:

Asana- postures practiced to help the muscles to be relaxed and supple.

The rule to be remembered is ‘sthiram sukham asanam’ i.e., an asana is that pose which can be maintained comfortably, steadily and effortlessly for long periods of time.

Pranayama is the science and art of manipulating the Vital force (the Prana) by

regulating the breathing.

Once these four ‘angas’ are mastered, one is ready for the 5th step i.e., Pratyahara – which means effortless withdrawal of the body from the extemal sense organs and objects. The above five, when practiced diligently, prepare the mind for the next two steps: Dharana means effortless dwelling upon a subject; Dhyana means meditation.

Constant practice of the above 7 steps leads one automatically to the 8th - Samadhi.

Samadhi is not something one can do; it just happens. When one reaches that

final stage, there is total merging of the three states - the see-er, the sight and the

process of seeing. The person becomes all-knowing, reaching the state of merging

with the Divine, which is called in Yoga as Kaivalya or self-realisation.

Pranayama

This means to have control over the Prana or vital force. We do this by controlling the movement of the breathing voluntarily. Normally our breathing is shallow and quite erratic. By regular practice of Pranayama, the breathing becomes deep, regular

and rhythmic. Since the mind and breathing are closely related, so, by regulating our breathing, we are able to reach a relaxed state of the mind also.

According to yoga, there are 5 pranas running in the body - each operating in a

certain direction and controlling certain functions.

Praana - is the ruling force which runs in the brain, face, heart and lungs.

Apaana - is the downward force of peristalsis. Excess causes diarrhea or flatus.

Congestion causes constipation, piles etc.

Udaana - is the anti-peristaltic force. Excess of it causes vomiting

Samaana - balances the apaana and udaana. It can be likened to homeostasis.

Vyaana- is the force which runs all through the skin and the nervous system.

These 5 pranas are responsible for all bodily functions. When they work in consonance, the body is in a state of health. When they are inconsonant, the body gets into a diseased state.

By the regular practice of pranayama, one can remove the gaseous toxins in the blood, which in turn, leads to internal purification. Though there are several techniques used by various schools of Yoga, the following simple ones are commonly used:

Cleansing techniques

Bhastrika and Kapala Bhati - these are exercises of hyper ventilation

Regulatory techniques

Surya Anuloma Viloma - right nostril breathing

ChandraAnuloma Viloma - left nostril breathing

Nadishuddhi pranayama - balances the breathing of the two nostrils

Cooling techniques

Sitali,Sitkari and Sadant - cools different areas of tongue, mouth & gums

Meditative techniques

Bhramari pranayama - expands awareness

By regular practice of yogasanas and pranayama, the body becomes cleansed of internal toxins, the organs are rejuvenated and the mind becomes relaxed – these are the necessary attributes required for a successful meditation. These practices should be done daily for achieving not only a healthy and youthful body, but also they help the person to achieve success in every venture even in day-to-day activities.

13. What are the various causes of diseases in different systems of medicine?

Dr. Lajpatrai Mehra's Neurotherapy :

Diseases arise because certain glands are not functioning properly, or they are not making their chemicals in the right quantity at the right time, or those chemicals do not reach their intended place in the body. If the digestive system, the lungs and the kidneys work correctly, no disease can arise.

Naturopathy :

Violation of the laws of nature causes an accumulation of waste jtoxins, which in turn, leads to derangement of Vital force, leading to a diseased state of the body.

Allopathy :

Diseases may be due to :

Infection Nutritional deficiency Congenital /genetic defects

Wasting of tissues Degeneration

Biochemic system :

Deficiency of one or more cell salts cause diseases.

Ayurveda :

Imbalance among the tri-doshas (Vata (Wind), Pitta (Bile) and Kapha (Mucus) cause different diseased states.

Homeopathy :

Derangement of the Vital force or imbalance in three humors or Miasms -

Psora, Syphi1lis and psychosis - causes various diseases.

14. Write a short note on: Foreign matter; Live food

Foreign matter : Our body has an internal environment of its own. Matter in any form other than the body and its component parts, is referred to as foreign matter. This includes bacteria, virus, dirt, dust, toxins and morbid matter.

Foreign matter, whether injurious or non-injurious, will lead to accumulation of toxins, poisons and morbid substances. This pollutes the internal environment, decreases vitality and causes harm to the body.

Live food : This is the food which is available in nature and is not ripened by artificial means or chemicals. It is also called as Sattvik food or God-given food. It is predominantly alkaline in nature.

Live food consists of :

Vegetable soups Edible raw foods Wheat grass juice

Sprouted grains / cereals Juicy / pulpy fruits / fruit juices

Leafy and non-leafy green vegetables and their juices

This type of food is easily digested, absorbed and assimilated, non-toxic and non-injurious to health. It is conducive to longevity, strength and purity of mind and body.

Meat and non-vegetarian food is not live food. After rigor mortis sets in, the flesh is degenerative.

15. Describe the importance of the following:

Cabbage

Extremely nutritious; contains a great number of alkaline vitamins & minerals; hence often referred to as a "Complete food".

The outermost leaves are dark-green in color, because of exposure to sun's rays. So they have the maximum nutritive value as compared to the light-green inner leaves. Soak the leaves for at least 15 minutes in water to which salt has been added, to get rid of pests and fertilizers. They can be eaten raw or else with minimum cooking.

Over cooking will destroy all the vitamins' and so is not beneficial.

Uses :

Anemia and blood disorders, anorexia, arthritis, boils, constipation, diabetes, gallstones, indigestion, obesity, piles, skin disorders, weakness of heart.

Contains more calcium than radish or turnips; hence useful for healthy gums, bones, and teeth.

Contains more vitamin C than oranges. Hence good for chronic cough, asthma.

Balances the tri-doshas of the body. Stimulates the liver and gall bladder, improves digestion & sluggish kidney / bowel functions. Drinking the raw juice is useful to treat gastric/ duodenal ulcers, even when accompanied by blood in vomit.

Applying the juice on the face, makes the skin soft and free from blemishes.

A paste of the leaves hastens wound healing.

A hot poultice is good for boils and wounds.

Apply a paste of the leaves on the neck, to cure swelling or itching on the neck.

Pomegranate

Generally improves digestion, starts suppressed urine flow, stops all kinds of hemorrhages.

5-8 grains of pom. + 5-6 gms of sugar candy - take twice daily for 4-5 days prior to the date of menses.	Stops excess flow in menses.
Powder of 3 gm. pom. grains with 1 gm. black salt.	Cough
Heat 3 gm. pomegranate grains on a pan, grind, drink with water	Dysentery
Place 10-15 grains of pom. + 10-12 leaves of mint (pudinaa) + 1 small cardamom in a betelnut leaf (paan), and chew thoroughly.	Stops vomiting in first trimester of pregnancy

Turmeric

An excellent house hold remedy for almost any toxic condition of the body.
I gm. Powder - in hot water thrice dail	Reduces inflammations
I gm. Powder - in warm milk	Decreases cough and colds
1 gm. Powder- in hot milk - apply over forehead	Decreases watering of nose
I gm. Powder - in warm water	Decreases urticaria
I gm. Powder + 1 tsp of honey	Good for angina ( helps dissolve blood clots).
Paste	All skin disorders, increases glow on skin and face.
Powder warmed in oil	Boils, carbuncles etc.
Powder equal quantities of turmeric-and alum and mix with castor oil or gingelly oil. Apply thoroughly on gums at night before sleeping.	Good remedy for all tooth disorders. Tightens gums. Loose & shaky teeth will become OK.

Tulsi (Basil) leaves

I tsp. juice taken daily	is an excellent rejuvenating agent.
10 leaves + 5 grains of black pepper - grind, boil in water, add 1 tsp honev.	For malarial fever.
Tulsi seeds + old jaggery	Improves sexual power in males.
Grind 20 leaves + 10 grains of black pepper + cinnamon, one clove, 4 small elaichi (cardamom). Take 2 gms daily in milk, with I tsp honey.	For ordinary fevers and colds, helps to perspire and thus brings down the fever. improves appetite; decreases obesity.
10 leaves + 0.5 gm. Asafetida (hing) -+ 1gm. jaggery - take 2 to 3 times daily	Menstrual disorders.
Juice of Shyam tulsi leaves + lemon juice + ground soorma (mascara)- grind and apply to eyes.	Improves eyesight, prevents formation of cataracts.
Juice of tulsi leaves + lemon juice + honey take ½ teaspoonful after each meal	Indigestion, acidity, sour eructations.
Juice of tulsi leaves + lemon juice in equal quantities - apply externally.	Provides relief from itching; good for eczema & skin disorders.
Add crushed garlic to the juice and take with honey	For worms, coughs and vomiting. For worms, chew two leaves daily in the morning and evening.

Figs

Soak dry figs every 12 hours and take the water - ¥,A!('for bleeding piles Good for asthma, liver, spleen, (contains many vitamins).

Juice of leaves prevents leucoderma from spreading.

Milk obtained while breaking leaves or the stem is good for boils, skin problems.

Carrot Juice - is an excellent source of vitamin A.

Good for eyes, hyperacidity, allergies, arthritis. anemia, bladder ailments etc.

Grape Juice - is an excellent source of vitamin C. ~ Good for cold, cough, scurvy, loose teeth, dental caries, gum disorders etc.

Lettuce leaves and its importance

Lettuce leaves are a rich source of Magnesium. They are good for:

Problems of the Prostate gland, obesity, menstrual disorders

headache due to improper digestion, diabetes, insomnia.

16. Write short note on the benefits of Juice therapy

This is a method of treatment of disease through an exclusive diet of juices of fruits and vegetables.

Raw juices and vegetables are extremely rich in vitamins, enzymes, natural sugars/ antibiotics and easily assimilable minerals like Calcium, Potassium, Managanese, Magnesium, Silicon etc.
They help in restoring biochemical balance.
They normalize acid-alkali balance in the body's tissues and especially assist in elimination of uric acid.
They supply the elements necessary for the body's own healing activity and cell regeneration.
Most effective way to restore health and rejuvenate the body.
Excretory organs function most effectively, leading to quick elimination of accumulated wastes and toxins.

So, the recovery from diseases is much faster.

17. Write notes on: Vitality

Vitality or Life Force or Vital force - is the force which is responsible for all actions going on within the body - including digestion, assimilation & elimination, locating & throwing out foreign matter from the body and routine repairs and maintenance. We must take care that this force does not become weak, for then we will fall prey to disease. Vitality plays a very important role in the body. It does not allow unwanted foreign or morbid matter to remain within the body. Also it repairs worn-out parts of the body.

Vital force becomes weakened under the following circumstances:

Over-exertion, either physically or mentally, much beyond the body's capacity.

Not eating live food; not doing proper exercise

Not observing regular fast. Violation of nature's laws

Suppressing diseases & symptoms by taking allopathic drugs

Vitality is strengthened by fasting. Fasting provides rest to the internal organs of digestion and so gives time to Vitality to undertake internal cleaning and maintenance.

Thereby, it diverts its attention to those parts which are not working properly and helps restore them to normal functioning.

“Dirt is Disease and Cleanliness is Health”. So in acute disease, Vitality is engaged in cleaning the body by driving out morbid matter which has become accumulated over a number of years, which cause the diseased state. In this process, manifestations likefrequent loose motions, fevers may crop up. This is a good sign that Vitality has started functioning. So we should not interfere with the natural process of cleaning being done by Vitality, by taking drugs to suppress the manifestations.
We can help Vitality in simple ways:

Eat meals at regular times	Avoid snacking in between meals
Drink water ½ hr. after a meal and in small quantities at periodical intervals thereafter.	Do not drink too much water at anyone time, and especially at the end of a meal, because digestive juices will get diluted
Eat simple wholesome live food	Avoid purine, rich, or non-vegetarian food.
Rest a while after a meal	Do not do heavy work immediately after a meal; blood flow gets diverted from the stomach to the limbs impairing digestion.

A good rule to follow while eating is : fill ½ of the stomach with food, ¼th with water

and the remaining area is left for free play of air. Another golden recipe for health is : A mixture of 1 part of food, 2 parts water, three parts exercise and four parts laughter.

If we keep our bodies internally and externally clean, no germs can enter, & we will be safe from infections. If our Vitality is strong, no illnesses can invade the body.

18. Describe the various types of baths used in hydrotherapy. Or

Explain the method and advantages of the following techniques:

Technique / Method

Uses

Enema

Firstly, fomentation with a hot water bag should be given on the lower abdomen for 10-12- min.

Next, press abdomen by fingers or by kneading.

Fill the enema pot with luke warm water and keep it at a height of 4 ft. Insert nozzle into the rectum of the patient in lying down position.

Open valve and allow about 200 ml of water into the body. Patient should lie down for at least 5-7 minutes and then only go to toilet. In case there is mild pain after the water is injected, a gentle massage over the rectum and abdomen facilitates the loosening of thick stuck-up fecal matter in the colon.

Cleans the colon. So, prevents accumulation of fecal matter in the bowels. Improves peristaltic motion in the bowels and thus relieves constipation.

Relieves Head and body aches, abdominal pain / discomfort.

For worms: neem water enema.

For appendicitis: tamarind water.

Severe constipation: use Castor oil.

Precautions : Do not use soap water as it leads to ulceration and burning in the intestine.

Retained enema minimum water, retained before bed, is excellent for constipation.

Sun bath

Time: 7am-9am; or 5pm. till dusk. Patient to sit with minimum clothes on the body such that the rays fall directly on the spine for-the first 10 mills.

Contra-indicated for persons with pulmonary TB.

Source of vitamin D. Hence good for bones and teeth. Removes general debility and weakness.

Improves eyesight, circulation, digestion and skin tone. It is a natural antibiotic.

Steam bath Duration 10 - 20 min.

Before the bath, patient should drink a couple of glasses of cold water to prevent low BP and should also cover the head with a cold towel. Conclude with a cold shower.

If one feels giddy during or after the steam bath, this may be due to low BP. So, give him a glass of cold water & also wash his face with cold water.

Contra-indicated in high fevers, pregnant women, cardiac / hyper tensive patients and after eating.

Stimulates eliminative function of body. Induces perspiration naturally, so that toxins are removed.

Improves blood circulation and tissue activity.

Good for: asthma, VD, chronic nephritis, rheumatism, obesity, neuralgias, chronic toxemias, infections, gout, migraine.

Give steam inhalations for nasal disorders, colds etc.

Hip bath

Patient sits with hip immersed, water up to navel, legs out of the tub, for 15-20 min.

Can be taken Hot, neutral or cold.

Cold hip baths for 1-2 min. only.

For abdominal, digestive, and urinary disorders, constipation cramps, swelling and piles.

Do warm-up exercises before going to bed.

Sitz bath (Genital bath or Linga snan)

In a hip bath tub, a stool is placed. Tub is filled with cold water (18°C-24°C), leaving

top of the stool dry. Patient sits upon the dry stool, leaving his legs dangling outside and washes the tips of his / her sexual organs.
Duration - 2 to 10 min.
After the bath, a moderate exercise to be taken, to restore the warmth of the body.

Stimulates the nervous system;

reduces morbid internal heat of the body; increases vitality.

Males to wash the extreme edge of the foreskin of their penis;

Females to wash only the external vaginal lips, leaving the inner parts of the sexual organs untouched.

Spinal bath

A strong jet of water is directed on the vertebra of the spine for as long as possible.

For treating night fall in men and for promoting calm sleep.

Swimming

After a light exercise, swim in a well, river or pool for 5-25 minutes, depending on one’s capacity.

Digestion, blood circulation, high BP, obesity and abdominal disorders.

Technique / Method

Uses

Shower bath

Stand under a waterfall, rain or strong shower

All benefits of a normal bath, also useful for hangovers.

Cold foot bath

Fill a tub/bucket with cold water (7-12 ºC) to a height of 3 to 4 inches. Feet should be completely immersed in the water for 1-5 min. After the bath, rub the feet vigorously to generate sufficient heat by friction

A cold foot bath for 1-2 min. relieves cerebral congestion and uterine hemorrhages. A bath for longer periods relieves pains and sprains of inflamed bunions. Contraindicated for: inflammatory conditions of genito-urinary organs, the liver and the kidneys.

Hot foot bath

First give the patient a glass or two of hot water, to prevent his BP from becoming low due to perspiration. Then ask him to sit in a chair, with his legs immersed up to the knees, in a tub of hot water (40-45 ºC). Duration: 5 to 20 min.

Cover the exposed part of his body - from knees up to the head - with a rug or warm cloth, so that no vapor escapes from the bath. A cold compress (towel dipped in cold water, and wrung dry), is placed on the head to protect him from feeling giddy.

There will be profuse sweating, by which accumulated toxins are removed. After the bath, the patient should immediately take a cold shower.

Relieves pains from sprains and pains of ankle and joints.

Brings warmth to patients who have cold hands and feet.

Removes fatigue, insomnia, arthritis & head ache caused by colds/ congestion. Useful in asthma and bronchial disorders. Increases blood supply to & stimulates involuntary muscles of uterus, bladder, intestines and other pelvic / abdominal organs. Useful to cure those women whose menses have stopped suddenly, without any reason.

Vaman dhauti or kunjal (abdomen wash)

Dissolve salt in 1-2 litres of luke warm water and drink it at one stretching without stopping; after a short while, bend forward, put a finger in the mouth and expel the water forcibly by vomiting.

Increases hunger, an excellent remedy for asthma, bronchitis, cold and cough, reduces pitta (bile) and phlegm.

Jala Neti (Nose wash)

Squat on the floor; take water in a special Neti pot; let it flow through the spout into one nostril and out from the other nostril.

For cold, cough, blocked nose, and disorders of the eyes and ears; also improves memory.

Stimulating packs

Take a piece of cloth, about 2-3m. in length and

8 inches wide. Soak it in cold water and tie on the affected part. Then tie a warm cloth on top of the cold cloth. Duration 2 to 2½ hrs.

Patient should be asked to consume a glass of water while taking whole body pack.

On Chest - bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, TB, pleurisy.

On Neck - inflammations of tonsils; larynx, pharynx; cough, colds, ear problems

On Abdomen - flatulence, indigestion, gas, dysentery.

On whole body - fever, skin diseases, general health.

Sheet pack

Patient to lie with minimum clothes on. He is

wrapped up in a wet sheet or cloth,which in

turn, is wrapped in a dry blanket for regulating evaporation. Head also to be covered with wet cloth so that scalp remains cold. Feet to be kept warm during the entire treatment.

Duration: 20-30 min.

Causes profuse sweating.

Good for: Typhoid and other

fevers; insomnia, epilepsy and

infantile convulsions. Chronic

cold and bronchitis.

Rheumatism and obesity.

Patient may be given cold or hot water to drink.

Enema taken while lying on left side is an excellent remedy for ulcers and for appendicitis.

19. Write notes on: Encumbrance, acidic and alkaline foodstuffs.

Encumbrance

This refers to the protuberances in body structure, especially in the face, back and neck, due to which, different individuals, respond differently to the same treatment, even though they are medically diagnosed to be having the same disease. It is this encumbrance which causes that some patients get cured easily, some others with difficulty, while some others do not get cured at all.

Location	Normal person	Back & side encumbrance	Front encumbrance	Front & side encumbrance
Head		Too large especially at the back.		Too large
Forehead	Smooth, no adipose cushion.	Cushioned, too broad	Bald at the top, without adipose cushion.
Face	Oval face; Nose well formed		Line of demarcation far behind ear. Lower half of face is too full.	Square, no line of demarcation.
Neck	Round, normal; clear line of demarcation below ear.	Too thick, no demarcation line at nape of neck.	Much enlarged in front; line of demarcation of nape normal.	Too short & too thick
Eyes	Large & free		Dull	Not quite normal
Mouth	Normal		Mouth is forward; swollen lower lip
Chin			Enlarged & receding.

Knowledge of encumbrances can tell us whether a disease is in advanced stage.

Early encumbrances of front & right side give rise to acute diseases.

Chronic diseases are a result of advanced left and back encumbrances.

Side encumbrances cause a deformity on the neck on the affected side.

Also, the person cannot turn the head to that side, without turning the whole body.

Back encumbrances are not so pronounced. The only sign is less convexity of back of head or curvature of back, shoulders bent forward. They are the worst, because they affect the brain and the nervous system.

Acidic and alkaline foodstuffs

A food is considered acidic or alkaline depending on:

the acid or base content of the food, its effect on gastric secretion

on reaction of the urine upon excretion its effect on the blood.

A majority of the foods are neither acidic or basic just when they are eaten. But they turn acidic or basic when they are broken down by the digestive enzymes in the alimentary canal, and by combustion in the cells.

Foods alkaline in nature

All beverages, coconut, dried fruits, ragi, citrus fruits, all fresh fruits except plums and straw berries, all vegetables except cauliflower and peas.

Foods acidic in nature

The flesh of all animals and birds, cereals except ragi, cashew nuts, almonds, ground nuts, walnuts, butter milk, cheese etc. Acidic nature is due to sulphur and phosphorus content in their proteins.

20. “Cure your nature and nature will cure you.” Explain

Modern man has adopted a life style which is taking him farther and farther away from Nature. He has no respect for nature's laws or for his body.

On the one side, he does not eat and sleep as per nature's laws. Nature has intended that we should rise before dawn and take rest after dusk. But modem man works till late at night, and sometimes even till the wee hours of the morning. As a result, he is often forced to get up much after sunrise. On the other hand, he has become more and more addicted to the pleasures of the flesh. One aspect of this is that his tastes for eating and drinking are guided more by his taste and not for the sake of health.

Moreover, eating food daily at a stipulated time and sleeping peacefully have become a rarity for almost all city-goers. All these take a toll on the digestive organs.

The next aspect is the fast pace of life, especially in cities, which in turn speeds up the mind. Man has now no time to enjoy the simple, leisurely pleasures of life, such as going out for long walks in the nature, taking bath in pools and rivers etc. Because of this, his mind is never peaceful. Addiction to non vegetarian food also makes him irritable, excited and hot-blooded. All of these reduce his Vitality, which then tries to set things right by exhibiting a series of symptoms heralding the onset of a diseased state.

But man does not pay heed to the warnings of nature. He does not give time to Vitality to set things right, because that process is for him too slow. He requires instant solutions. So, at the slightest hint of a symptom, he takes recourse to drugs, because they promise instant relief from the symptoms in the shortest possible time. But, in reality, what the drugs really are doing is that they interfere with the body's defense mechanism, which gets weaker on account of the harm that the drugs cause.

All these activities and notions have become a part and parcel of man's nature. And so these have to be changed and modified so that nature can do her own work peacefully. This is what is meant by the statement ‘Cure your nature’.

We have to adopt a different way of life, one where we listen to nature and respect and obey Nature's laws. We have to train our mind also, for which we have to make yoga, pranayama, bhajans and meditation as an important part of our life. Since we are a product of nature, Mother Nature can and will cure us of all ills provided we start living by her laws. Then we can attain a life full of vigour and enthusiasm and be free from diseases.

21. What is disease? How does acute disease change to chronic disease?

What is ‘Healing crisis’ ?

Disease is an abnormal or inharmonious vibration of elements and forces composing the human entity, on one or more planes. It means that the person is not at ease with his body or mind.

Barring trauma and congenital disorders, the primary cause of all diseases is:
Violation of nature's laws – in eating, drinking, breathing, acting, dressing, working, resting and most importantly, in thinking. This in turn, causes an accumulation of toxins, waste matter and morbid matter in the stomach which puts a great pressure on vitality and thus weakens it.
In an acute stage, internal cleansing is done by vitality. Drugs stop the natural healing process and the suppression leads to chronic diseases – which is the 2nd stage.
The 3rd stage of disease is called as Destructive disease. Here the disease has progressed to the stage that it becomes the cause of death. Examples are cancer, pleurisy, pneumonia etc.
Dr. Henry Lindlahr says: Every acute disease is the resulting of a cleansing and healing effort of nature. Suppressing the acute condition by drugs, lays the foundation for a chronic disease." For example, acute troubles like cough and cold, when suppressed, lead to sinusitis, pneumonia, typhoid etc.
A Healing crisis is an acute reaction, which may occur during the course of a treatment by nature cure, especially during a fast. It results when Nature's Healing Forces become more powerful than the conditions of the disease. It is a healthy sign taking the body towards recovery. It is as per Nature's Constructive Principle.

During a fast, Vitality is involved in internal cleansing of removing toxins & poisons from internal organs. This causes some changes to occur in the body, which may show up in a variety of manifestations: sleeplessness, vomiting, diarrhea, black stools, bad breath, boils, tremors or fever. It is a vigorous act of the body to eliminate the disease-producing morbid matter.

During such a time, we should not suppress the symptoms by taking drugs, but we should cooperate with Nature by strictly following treatment and diet and a complete bed rest is to be taken allowing Mother Nature to do her job without interference. This is a temporary phase; the body soon gets rid of all morbid matter and becomes rejuvenated and revitalized.

By following nature's laws, we can increase Vitality and prevent recurrence of disease.

22. “A man becomes what he eats.” - Comment.

Our ancestors who lived on a raw animal diet, were often barbaric, inflicting injury and killing one another, using the maxim ‘Might is Right’ - the Law of the Jungle.

Another fact is that the manner in which animals are imprisoned and slaughtered, they die screaming in fear, anger and tension, which will have its effect on the meat also. A strictly non-vegetarian diet makes a person irritable, easily excited and leads to constipation, high BP, hysteric fits etc.

So Gandhiji advocates that vegetarianism should have that moral basis that

'Man is not born a carnivorous animal (which have to obtain their food by killing other animals) - but he is born to live on fruits and herbs that the earth grows.’

The fact that man is basically a warm-blooded animal, while carnivorous animals are usually cold-blooded, also leads support to the above.

It is due to all these reasons, that naturopathy repeatedly insists that one must follow a strict vegetarian diet in order to increase vitality and prevent falling prey to diseases.

23. What is Balanced diet and mono diet

A balanced diet is one which provides sufficient number of calories and contains all the principal constituents of food in proper quantity. It is the strongest shield against degenerative diseases.

A Nature cure diet consists of : ⅓rd of cereals + ⅓rd of vegetables + ⅓rd of fruits.

The human body is a chemical combination of at least 16 primary elements found in air and in the earth. Those in the air are : carbon, hydrogen, oxygen & nitrogen

The earth provides us with several minerals, each of which fills a particular place in our bodies. They play a prominent role in the construction and maintenance of the body.

For muscles and bones - calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese

For blood – iron

For activity of enzymes and hormones - sulfur, iodine, chlorine, fluorine, zinc.

Apart from these, there are essential food elements -

carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and cellulose which are necessary.

When all these are provided in their necessary proportion, it is called as balanced diet

Mono diet – Food which contains mainly only one of the food elements is called Mono diet.

Eating any food item in excess has a detrimental effect.

Increased consumption of	Effect on the body
Carbohydrates	increases blood glucose level. When sugar is found in urine it is called diabetes. Symptoms are : weakness, fatigue, numbness in feet, frequent urination etc.
Proteins	increases uric acid in blood, leading to gout. If proteins are not digested properly, they will putrefy in intestines causing gases and accumulation of poisons and toxins, which weakens Vitality.
Fats	increases blood cholesterol level, which is the root cause of obesity, and disorders of heart, kidney and liver.

Hence one should eat a balanced diet and not a mono diet.

24. What is yoga therapy? How do asanas help to maintain health?

Yoga chikitsa or yoga therapy is a method of treatment of diseases by a combination of exercises, which may be physical, mental or both. It is a means of attaining perfect health by maintaining harmony and achieving optimum functioning on all levels - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual- through complete but effortless self-control.

It is constituted of 'kriyas' and 'yogasanas' and mudras.

Kriyas

Jalaneti - relieves sore throat, colds, coughs, sinusitis, migraine & inflammation of

mucous membrane of the nose, lungs and stomach.

Vamana dhouti or Kunjal kriya - relieves headaches, nervous weakness, chronic colds, cough and especially useful for asthmatics.

Kapalabhati - provides relief in many disorders of the lungs, throat and chest - eg.,

Chronic bronchitis, asthma, pleurisy.

Yogasanas

Sarvangasana	improves circulation in throat, thyroid, head and full body.
Halasana	for spine, abdomen and digestive organs.
Paschimottanasana	digestive system and spine
Pavanamuktasana	relieves excessive gaseous abdomen.
Bhujangasana & Salabhasana	spine, abdomen, for disorders of lungs / digestive organs.
Dhanurasana	sciatica, diabetes, for disorders of lungs / digestive organs.
Simhasana	improves facial uplift, throat and eyes and gives confidence.

Elderly patients or those with severe disorders may not be able to perform yogasanas in the beginning. They should be advised to first do repetitive exercises based on the above asanas. Later, as their bodies become supple, they will be able to maintain the pose or asana easily.

Yogic Mudras

Chin mudra	increases brain, mental and concentration power, cures sleeplessness, tension headaches.
Vayu mudra	rheumatism, gout, arthritis, Parkinson's.
Shunya mudra	earache, vertigo
Prithvi mudra	skin problems, dehydration, give life force.
Sun mudra	generates heat in the body, helps digestion, reduces fat.
Pran mudra	nervousness, fatigue.
Linga mudra	increases resistance against bronchial affectations, burns excessive fat and phlegm.

25. Write the causes, diet and treatment for the following diseases

Constipation

Causes – Wrong diet, a faulty lifestyle and certain diseases.

Wrong diet includes:

Ø Deficiency of roughage in diet

Ø Intake of refined, rich food, lacking in natural minerals and vitamins.

Ø Insufficient chewing

Ø Eating wrong combination of foods

Ø Not drinking enough water or drinking too much water at one time or not drinking water at regular intervals.

Faulty lifestyle includes

Ø Irregular habits and timings of eating and drinking

Ø Insufficient sleep

Ø Frequent use of purgatives

Ø Lack of physical activity and sedentary habits cause weakness of abdominal muscles.

Ø Suppression of acute diseases by use of strong drastic drugs.

Ø The following diseases also cause / aggravate constipation:

Hypothyroidism, teeth disorders, tumours, sluggish liver, colitis, uterine diseases, diseases of rectum and the colon

Diet for constipation

Chapattis made of unrefined whole grains

Plenty of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables & salads

Whole grain cereals, bran, honey, molasses (jaggery)..

Avoid non-vegetarian food.

Patient should drink plenty of water at periodical intervals, but never along with meals. He should be advised to drink water after half an hour after the meal.

Various treatments to relieve constipation

A glass of warm water with lemon juice early in the morning.

Warm water enema as necessary

Take 2-3 figs in the morning and evening. Fasting once a week.

Cold friction bath every morning Wet mud packs over the abdomen.

Asanas - bhujangasana, salabhasana, pavana muktasana

In LMNT, we increase the motility of the descending colon and stimulate the thyroid gland which helps relieve constipation quickly.

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Arthritis

Causes :

Temperature variations, habitual constipation,

side effect of drugs given for some other condition causes accumulation of toxins around joints. May be due to an auto immune reaction (hyper-activity of the thymus)

Diet : An alkaline diet of fresh fruits and vegetables

Reduce intake of carbohydrates and proteins

Treatment for arthritis

In case of fever or too much pain, no other treatment except complete rest.

Sun bath every morning and hot foot bath in the evenings.

Do simple exercises. Massage joints with sun-charged red oil.

Drink magnetized water (S.Pole). Go for long walks if joints permit.

Apply a paste of turmeric, garlic & camphor in warm mustard oil over the joints Exposing joints to infra-red radiation therapy reduces pain.

In LMNT, we give Subclavian treatment to reduce pains and a Heparin treatment to open up blood clots anywhere in the body. We also regulate the acid alkali balance of body fluids By UDF treatment we improve protein digestion and we give appropriate treatment for improving body’s power to utilize vitamins.

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Asthma

It is a predominantly psycho-somatic disorder which may be triggered by allergens.

Causes :

Allergens like pollen, dust, smoke, hair from domestic pets; Anxiety, shock, bullying / dominating attitude of close relations, which these persons suffer in silence;

Side effects of certain drugs; Suppressed itch; Very strong likes and dislikes

Diet :

Warm water with turmeric, tulsi and honey taken early in the morning.

Figs and salads containing cabbage should be used in plenty.

Natural diet with low starch content. Eat less than the required quantity.

Avoid sugars, spices, pickles, rice, meat, eggs, breads, curds, bananas.

Treatment for asthma

Steam bath once a week; sun bath daily; Stimulating packs / mud packs over the abdomen.

Hot foot bath, hot hip bath or wet packs over the chest will stimulate the skin and relieve congestion in the lungs.

Yogic kriyas like jala neti and Kunjal are of great benefit. Do pranayama and yogasanas such as bhujangasana, vakrasana, salabhasana, chakrasana, sarvangasana etc

Drink magnetized water in a copper pot, and use orange colour.

During an attack, teach the patient to do ‘Yogic chair breathing’ developed by SVYASA.

Give the patient steaming ginger tea mixed with garlic and cloves.

In LMNT, we stimulate the lungs and relax the neck muscles by various techniques, and also restore balance of acid and alkali in the body fluids.

Acidity

Causes: excessive heat/acid in the abdomen; faulty regimen; improper digestion.

Diet: alkaline food like fruits, vegetables, dates, figs, milk, potatoes and soya beans.

Avoid acid-forming foods like bread, cereals, eggs, meat, coffee, condiments, nuts, peas, rice and sugar.

Treatment: warm water with lemon juice and little honey and ginger juice is the best alkaline natural drink. Apply wet packs over abdomen; drink 1-2 glasses of ice cold milk at night time; drinking magnetized water (S.Pole);

Biochemic : Nat phos 3x - 4 pills 1-1-1 daily;
Homeo : Nux vomica 30, Roninea 30, Acid Sulph 30 - 4 pills 1-1-1 daily.

In LMNT, we stimulate the liver and gallbladder and increase the motility of the intestines.

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Headache

Causes: allergies; emotional strain; hypertension; eye strain; hangover; infections;

nutritional deficiencies; iron-deficiency anaemia; accumulation of toxins, morbid

substances through faulty diet.

Diet: after a fast, citrus fruit juices diluted with water may be had 6 times a day;

Have breakfast of fresh and dried fruits; lunch with protein food; dinner of whole chapattis, cereals, rice, potatoes, along with raw salads. Avoid spices, tomatoes, sour buttermilk and oily foodstuffs.

Treatment: one teaspoonful of honey in a glass of water - warm water in winter &

cold-water in summer; enema with water at 98.6°F.

Frequent application of towels to back of neck and a cold compress to head and face;hot fomentations over abdominal region just before retiring; jal neti, kunjal,

nadi-shuddhi pranayama, sitali, uttanapadasan, Sarvangasana, Paschimottanasana

In LMNT, we open up the clots in the head and give treatments to improve the bood circulation in the head and neck.

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Hypertension

Causes: tension at work; kidney troubles; emotional and mental tensions, obesity.

Diet: fruits, fresh vegetables, raw vegetables, coconut water. Eat free from tension.

Treatment: morning walk in fresh open air; hot foot bath at night; reduce weight;

wear a magnetic belt; have proper rest and sleep; help patients to have a peace of

mind and train them in physical, dietetic, emotional and sexual habits.

In LMNT, we stimulate the liver and gallbladder; increase the motility of the intestines and increase the blood flow to the kidneys so that they function effectively.

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Flatulence

Flatulence means excessive gas in the stomach and intestines. When this is expelled through the anus it is called as flatus. When the gas comes out through the mouth, it is called as belching or eructation.

Causes: faulty ways of eating; improper chewing, peptic or duodenal ulcers, high protein diet causing putrefaction

Diet: vegetable soups, fruits, fruit juices. Avoid milk, butter & ghee in excess.

Treatment: weekly fast; warm water enema, hot water fomentation over abdomen;

soup of garlic pieces, black pepper seeds, coriander & ajwain.

Mud packs over abdomen. Daily morning walks. Homeo - China 30 ; Lycopodium 6.

In LMNT, we stimulate the liver and gallbladder and increase the motility of the intestines.

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Indigestion

Causes: Irregular meal timings; improper chewing, snacking in-between meals; eating in a hurry; drinking water/aerated waters while eating food; stress and tension.

Diet: alkaline and vegetarian diet; non-fried food; eat plenty of fruits such as

Mosambi (sweet lime) or oranges; fruit juices; Avoid rich food.

Treatment: fast twice a week on fruit juices; have regular morning walk; eat only when really hungry; warm water enema once a week, uttanapadasan, vajrasan & yoga mudras. Cold friction bath daily; butter milk with black pepper powder; have juice of fresh ginger with lime. Homeo - Ars alb 30 - 3 pills, 1-1-1 daily for 5 days.

In LMNT we stimulate the digestive organs by increase blood supply to the abdomen.

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Appendicitis

Causes: toxic bowel conditions; wrong feeding habits and enervation of the system;

inflammation of the bowel lining due to habitual use of aperient drugs (=laxatives) is a predisposing factor; the appendix becomes inflamed, with tenderness at MacBurny's point, and swollen due to accumulation of pus, toxins etc.

Diet: On the 1st day - a glass of milk to be taken every 2 hrs from 8 am to 8 pm;

Next day - a glass of water after every 1½ hrs; diet of fresh fruits and fresh

vegetables; juice of carrot, beets and cucumbers;

Tea from fenugreek seeds is useful in preventing the appendix from becoming a dumping ground for excess mucus & intestinal wastes.

Treatment: apply hot fomentation and abdominal packs every morning and night. Abdominal massage is beneficial; try to eradicate constipation; once the waste matter of the cecum moves into the colon, irritation & inflammation in the appendix will subside and surgical removal will not be necessary.

In LMNT we improve blood supply to the appendix and reduce inflammation by stimulating the adrenal cortex.

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Heart disorders

A. Functional disorders: increased, decreased or irregular heart rate brought about mechanically due to distension of stomach and colon or a disturbance of the SNS (sympathetic nervous system).

B. Organic disorders:

Pericarditis - inflammation of membrane of the sac surrounding the heart

(pericardium). This may be acute or chronic.

Endocarditis - the common form of heart disease where there is

inflammation of the lining of the cavity.

Myocarditis - inflammation of the muscular tissue of the heart.

Angina pectoris - neuralgic affection of the heart - pain is brought about by

spasmodic contraction of the heart muscle.

Diet: fruits, fresh / raw vegetables, low cholesterol diet.

Treatment: morning walk in fresh open air;

Nadi-Shuddhi pranayama, Meditation and Shavasana.

In LMNT, we stimulate the pancreas and the thyroid gland, and decrease blood cholesterol by stimulating the liver and give a special treatment to open up blood clots.

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Diabetes

Causes Ingested sugars are not burnt by the body

Insufficient production of Insulin by the pancreas

Weak sugar metabolism - due to hypothyroidism

Auto immune reaction (hyper-activity of the thymus) - due to stress & tension

Diet Karela and cabbages should form a part of the daily diet

Milk, or buttermilk, sprouts, especially sprouted methi

Plenty of fresh salads and vegetable soups in place of rice/wheat

Fruits like pineapple, jamun, tomatoes

Treatment

Avoid fats, cooked starchy foods, alcohol, meat, rice, potatoes. Take wheat grass juice daily

Do regular exercise. Climbing stairs is preferred to long walks as it burns up more calories

Cold baths increase circulation and enhance the utilization of sugar by muscles

Ardha matsyendrasana, halasana, sarvangasana, dhanurasana, chakrasana

In LMNT we stimulate the pancreas and the gonads and inhibit the thymus gland.

Obesity

Causes Rich oily food, ice creams, chocolates, alcohol, meats, and too much sleep

Lack of bodily exercise, sedentary habits Faulty way of eating, snacking between meals

Side effects of drugs given for depression/ hormonal pills etc

Diet Have buttermilk in place of coffee/tea and other beverages

Raw or steamed vegetables, fresh fruits and green salads

Sprouted cereals and pulses Fruits like oranges, water melons

Treatment Take one tsp of honey in hot lemon juice in place of morning tea/ coffee

In severe cases, patients should take nothing else than buttermilk.

Long walks in the morning and evening for older people.

For youngsters, dynamic exercises, aerobics

Steam bath once a week. Dry massage as often as possible

Asanas like sarvangasana, surya namaskar, vajrasana, chakrasana etc

Avoid slimming pills as they cause side effects like HiBP, allergies etc.

In LMNT, we improve fat metabolism by stimulating the pancreas, liver and gallbladder.

26. Vegetables, fruits and their uses

Apple	rich source of phosphorus; improves digestion; diarrhea; Juice is good for gastric disorders; kidney; liver disorders, arthritis, nervous exhaustion;.
Ash gourd	anemia, falling of hair & dandruff; hysteric conditions; worms; peptic ulcers; TB
Cabbage	peptic ulcers; obesity; digestive disturbances; menopausal syndrome.
Carrot	varicose veins; eyesight; sinusitis; rheumatism; ulcers; prostate troubles; psoriasis; piles; obesity; neuritis; acidity; acne; arthritis; asthma; colitis; constipation.
Channa	rich nitrogen content; provides strength.
Coconut	hair tonic; oil used for massage; drink during convalescence or fasting.
Cow's milk	full of Vitality; easily digestible; relieves gastric disturbances.
Cucumber	psoriasis; liver troubles; kidney; heart diseases; hypertension; colitis; eczema; bladder ailments; arthritis; acne.
Drumsticks	good for spine; blood purifier, combats debility; good nerve tonic; neuritis. External application of juice is good for skin disorders; fruits and leaves effective in jaundice & piles.
Fenugreek	worms; white discharge; flu; dengue fever; cholera, high fevers.
Figs	Laxative; excellent for const; kidney; liver; spleen.
Grapes	laxative; cooling; blood purifier; increases urine flow; consumption; diarrhea; Spleen enlargement; gout; dyspepsia.
Karela	Disorders of spleen, liver; gout; rheumatism; Diabetes Mellitus;
Lemon	scurvy; improves appetite; const; dysentery; jaundice.
Mango	dyspepsia; diarrhea; const; bleeding dysentery.
Onion	Sinusitis; flu; colds; bronchial asthma
Orange	acidity; colds; flu' hypertension; neuritis; kidney; obesity; rheumatism; piles; tonsillitis.
Papaya	colitis; diarrhea; gastric upset; liver troubles; obesity; piles; menopausal syndrome.
Pineapple	tonsillitis, piles, sore throat; obesity; flu; neuritis; gout; halitosis; asthma; diarrhea; bronchitis; colds.
Radish	tonsillitis; sinusitis; renal & gall. stones; menopausal syndrome; asthma.
Spinach	acidity; acne; allergies; arthritis; arteriosclerosis; blood purifier; bronchitis; constipation; epilepsy; eye disorders; headaches; heart disorders; jaundice; menstrual disorders; obesity;
Tomato	halitosis; bronchitis; eye disorders; gout; liver troubles; obesity; rheumatism; sinusitis; sore throat; varicose veins.

The following raw juices may be given for the following diseases :-

Cancer - wheat grass; fresh fruit juices

Pyorrhea - lemon, grapes, orange, spinach, amla

Skin diseases - red grapes, sour fruits, cucumber, carrot, spinach