Category: Herbal Remedies

July 20, 2023

Process And Ayurvedic Aspect of Hemapheresis

Abstract

Blood is the main component of our body. It contains living cells like Red blood cells, White blood cells, and Platelets. Blood is responsible for the transport of oxygen and other substances in the whole body. But many causes can lead to blood infections and ultimately several diseases. Infection in the blood can be of any single blood component from plasma, lymphocytes, RBCs, WBCs, or a mixture of many of these blood components. Infected blood will cause infection in the whole body, and each organ, in short wherever the infected blood will reach the body, the area gets prone to infection and other diseases. To deal with such conditions Hemapheresis is performed to collect specific components for transfusion and remove pathogens from the infected blood or blood components. In the following article, we will discuss all aspects of Hemapheresis and similar aspects of blood cleansing in Ayurveda.

Hemapheresis

Introduction

Hemapheresis is the therapeutic elimination of blood components by passing the blood through automated equipment. Hemapheresis is a combined term used for various types of pheresis. Like plasmapheresis is the removal and replacement of a patient’s blood plasma, erythropoiesis is the removal and replacement of a patient’s Red blood cells, leucopheresis is the removal and replacement of a patient’s leukocytes, plateletpheresis is removal and replacement of patient’s of platelets, lymphopoiesis is removal and replacement of patient’s lymphocytes. These all are nonsurgical therapies for the removal and replacement of a particular blood component.

Process of Hemapheresis

Hemapheresis works on the centrifugal principle. The blood from the patient’s body is processed in the equipment where the components of blood are separated, the infected/target blood component is removed from the blood. After the removal of a particular component rest of the blood is returned to the patient’s body.

Indicators of Hemapheresis

Autoimmune diseases
Aplastic anemia
Acute liver failure
ABO-incompatible disorders
Macular degeneration
Multiple myeloma
Blood clotting disorders
Hyperviscous syndrome
Leukapheresis is performed when the number of leucocytes exceeds – in leukemia
Polycythemia
Liver, kidney, and lung transplantation
Hemochromatosis
Hemosiderosis etc

Ayurvedic Aspect

Blood is called Rakta in Ayurveda. The disorders of Rakta are known as Rakta Pradoshaj Vikar, which occur due to an imbalance of tridosha in the body. The Rakta disorders described in texts vary from skin, liver, and anas to the whole body.
Skin disorders such as Rakta Pradoshaj Vikar – Kotha [urticaria], Dadru [tinea], Charamdal [dermatitis]. Kushth [leprosy, psoriasis], Shavitr [leucoderma], etc.

Some other body diseases listed in Rakta Pradoshaj Vikar are – kamala [jaundice], vidridhi [abscess], arbud [tumors], indralupt [alopecia], raktpitta [bleeding disorder], arsh [hemorrhoids], pleeha vikar [splenomegaly], vatashonit [gout], etc.

In Ayurveda practice, 2 methods are practically used to purify the blood

Raktshodhana (Blood cleaning/purification)
Raktmokshana (Bloodletting)

Let us have a detailed look at the procedure of these two methods and know how successful these methods are working in blood purification

1. Raktshodhana [Blood purification]

Cleaning the blood is known as Raktshodhana. This is a commonest practiced method for cleaning blood in Ayurveda. Various herbal medication combinations are used to clean the blood. Likewise hemapheresis these herbs clean the blood, but inside the body itself. Blood-purifying herbs include – Haridra (Curcuma longa), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia).

2. Haridra (Curcuma longa)

The antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties of Haridra acts as a blood purifier. It also helps in increasing the Red blood cell count in the blood. This herb is used internally as well as externally on wounds, and skin disorders due to blood toxicity. This herb cleans the blood internally by removing the infection (bacteria, protozoa) and also alleviates the pain.

3. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem is the most known herb for skin cleansing and blood purification. It pacifies Pitta dosha due to its cooling properties. As this herb will clean the blood thus, will help in the recovery of diseases due to blood toxicity – syphilis, and diabetes. In addition, it recovers skin conditions like acne, dadru, skin rash with itching, etc.

4. Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus)

These herbs have various uses, and due to their blood-cleansing properties it is used in skin-related problems. It is a Rasayana and is used for digestive issues and increasing body metabolism. It also has anti-inflammatory properties thus used accordingly for various related disorders.

5. Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia)

Manjishtha is commonly used as a Blood purifier. It is used in the treatment of several skin problems. It has anti-cancerous properties and helps to reduce any lumps in the body. Anti-diabetic and anti-stress properties of manjistha aid in healing the body. Along with it, manjishtha also has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant properties.

6. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)

It is an anti-inflammatory herb. It is used in the management of leprosy and other blood disorders. Guduchi enhances memory and activates the immune system. Guduchi is a wonderful herb and helps to improve various diseases such as chronic fever, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and respiratory problems.

7. Raktamokshana [Bloodletting]

Along with Raktshodhana, in some conditions, the Raktmokshana is also performed for better and faster results. Raktmokshana is stated as the fifth procedure of panchakarma therapy by some acharyas. The best season/ time to perform raktamokshan is Sharad ritu (Autumn). Likewise Hemapheresis can also be done with the help of certain instruments, but it includes natural things to be used as an instrument, not electric ones as in Hemapheresis. Various natural instruments/ methods have been described in the ayurvedic texts according to the patient’s condition and age.

Non-Instrumental Methods – Jaloka [leech Therapy]

Shringa [cow horn method]
Alabu [pitcher gourd]
Ghantiyantra

Instrumental Methods

Prachaan
Siravedh [Vein puncture]

Jaloka [Leech Therapy]

Bloodletting with the use of a leech known as Jaloka in Ayurveda, blood cleansing is done. Jaloka is used in Pitta dosha dushti diseases and is considered the best Anushashtra. These jalokas are used in various skin wounds to facilitate early recovery and get rid of infections. cleanses the blood up to Ek hast (one hand) deep. This method is used in soft-hearted patients who cannot tolerate vein puncturing and other methods. Fresh leeches are used for impure blood-sucking. Hirudin present in the saliva of leeches has anti-coagulating effects that prevent blood from coagulating. Whereas, Hyaluronidase increases the blood flow to the affected area. Leeches suck impure blood in the beginning and maybe pure blood after that. Also, some leeches are poisonous so the collection should be done carefully. This therapy is done under the observation of an Ayurveda expert.

Shringa [Cow Horn Method]

Shringa is used in Vata dosha dushti disorders because of its Ushan (hot), Madhur (sweet), and Sanigdh (glossy) properties. It cleanses the blood up to 10 angul deep. The basic shringa is of length 7 angul with a hole on both of its endings, with a larger hole at one side and a small hole at another end. After a small incision is made on the site of bloodletting, the shringa is placed on it with the larger hole end on the skin and the other end away from it. Due to the pressure created by the vacuum, the blood is sucked out of the area.

Alabu [Bitter Gourd]

It is used in Kapha dosha dushti vikaras (disorders) because of its katu (bitter), rooksh (dry), teekshan (sharp) properties. It cleanses the blood up to 12 angul depths. An incision is made on the skin and the area is made slightly rough to keep a diya (lighted lamp) on it and alabu is kept on it, the negative pressure created in it will do bloodletting. This is done generally for 10-15 minutes. After that jatyadi tel or any other medicated oil is massaged very light-handed on the area.

Ghantiyantra

Ghantiyantra or Ghatika is used in Kapha and Vata dosha dushti rogas. Aacharya Charak used this method in Gulam disease (collection of impure blood in the stomach). The ghada is used in the form of cups on the surface of the skin which will create pressure on the skin for bloodletting. This is correlated to Couping Glass Therapy done nowadays.

Prachaan and Siravyadh

Incision is made on the body surface/sira (vein), that causes bloodletting. This is a very delicate process and must be performed by a specialist under the guidance of an ayurvedic expert. Written consent is required to perform this procedure. The Vitals of the patient is recorded before and after the procedure. Any dramatic changes in the patient’s condition and vitals should be managed immediately. Temporary diet and lifestyle changes are done for the patient after raktmokshan.

Contraindications for siravedh

Shloka

Siravedh is not recommended for people with

Vrish awastha (Old age patient)
Darpok (Coward)
Kas (cough)
Shwas (Asthma)
Pakshaghat (paralysis)
Garbhini (pregnant)
Krish (a very lean person)
Murshit (unconscious)
After panchakarma

Conclusion

It is important to clean blood according to the patient’s disease and age. Traditional medicine is a combination of skills, knowledge, and practices based on theories. Various natural methods are used in Ayurveda for this processing. Bloodletting with leeches and the Couping glass method is being widely practiced these days. For the treatment of any blood disorders mentioned above, do visit our doctors for natural and effective management. For more queries visit us at www.planetayurveda.com

June 19, 2023

What Are Antioxidants and How They Are Helpful in Improving Health?

ABSTRACT

Wonder why health experts focus on a good diet and fruit consumption. That’s because they are rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants plays a pivotal role in health. They contain antioxidants that help us to get good health. Radiance of skin, the capability to resist the pollution that causes damage to our bodies, protection of our body from wear and tear, and prevention from various health ailments are all because of antioxidants. There are a wide range of antioxidants.

They can be natural or manmade. All offer good health to you.

INTRODUCTION

Antioxidants are substances that inhibit the damage caused by the oxidation process(oxidative stress) in the cells. During the oxidation process, free radicals are produced in our bodies which are called reactive oxygen species(ROS). Free radicals are unpaired electrons that are unstable and very reactive. They gain stability after binding with other electrons. So, these free radicals bind with various proteins, lipids, and DNA to alter the working of organs and cause diseases. Antioxidants are produced either inside our body (cell metabolism), or outside our body (pollution, radiation,). In order to prevent ourselves from free radicals we need to eat food that is rich in antioxidants. Astaxanthin, Anthocyanins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, lignans, carotenoids (xanthophylls and carotenes), and vitamins like vitamin E and vitamin C are rich in antioxidants. How do we know which food has more antioxidants? ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) is a measure that calculates the amount of antioxidants in the food. Indian gooseberry, sorghum, ginger, and coffee are some foods that are higher in antioxidants. Foods rich in antioxidants slow down the oxidative process and radical damage. So now we know the importance of fruits, vegetables, and supplements. We eat antioxidants that protect us from diseases and are very important for our health.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANTIOXIDANTS

REJUVENATING FUNCTION

Antioxidant consumption slows the ageing process. It rejuvenates the body cells and enhances the turnover of epidermal skin.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FUNCTION

Free radicals are responsible for inflammation in the body. During inflammatory response, Leukocytes and mast cells act on the region of damage thereby producing more free radicals in damage and releasing ROS. Antioxidants act by scavenging free radicals and reducing ROS hence decreasing inflammation.

ANTI-CANCEROUS FUNCTION

Antioxidants like glutathione are responsible for decreasing distribution caused by cancerous free radicals.

BRAIN HEALTH

Neurological disorders like schizophrenia, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease are prevented by the optimum use of antioxidants by inhibiting the activity of free radicals. Astaxanthin is known to cross the blood-brain barrier and is useful in brain-related disorders.

GOOD IMMUNITY

Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, E, and beta carotenes increase susceptibility to fight against infection.

FOOD SOURCES OF ANTIOXIDANTS

Dry fruits (Walnuts, pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, chilgoza, etc).
Berries (Gooseberries, blackberries, crane berries, etc)
Spices(Turmeric, cloves, cumin, cinnamon, etc)
Herbs(Tulsi, Kesar, Giloy, aloe vera, rosemary, mint, etc)
Fruits(Apples, dates, kiwis, grapes, coconut, oranges, tomatoes, peaches, pomegranates, etc)
Vegetables(broccoli, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, asparagus, artichokes, beetroot, garlic, onion, radish, etc)
Pulses(green grams, soya beans, chickpeas, green peas, etc)
Grains (Rakta shali ie. Red rice, Mahashali ie. Basmati rice, Yava ie. Barley)
OILS: Sunflower oil, primrose oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, mustard oil, etc.

ANTIOXIDANT DEFICIENCY

Antioxidant deficiency occurs when we consume foods that are not rich in antioxidants or our daily recommended antioxidant uptake is not met by the food we eat. Antioxidant deficiency leads to oxidative stress causing damage in our bodies leading to diseases like recurrent cough, cold, infections, heart disease, atherosclerosis, arthritis, Parkinson, senile dementia, and cancer.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR STAYING HEALTHY THROUGH ANTIOXIDANTS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda provides the best combination of effective herbal remedies as an Antioxidants Pack for good health. It is a polyherbal pack that contains Cranberry capsules, Spirulina capsules, Amalaki rasayan, Immune booster, Brahmi chyawanprash, etc. For natural and herbal treatment always look for natural products which contain pure extracts and are formulated under GMP guidelines. Planet Ayurveda products are scientific and certified. They are free from any chemicals, additives, and preservatives. Planet Ayurveda products are formulated by MD Doctors and are 100% natural, pure, and free from side effects.

Product List

Cranberry Capsules
Spirulina Capsules
Amalaki Rasayan
Immune Booster
Brahmi Chyawanprash

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Cranberry Capsules

Cranberry capsule is an ayurvedic formulation that contains a single ingredient that is cranberry (vaccinium oxy-coccus). Cranberries contain antioxidants that prevent a number of diseases. Cranberries are rich in a number of antioxidants like flavonoids, anthocyanins, polyphenols, vitamin C, E, and K. According to Ayurveda cranberries have vitta-balancing properties and it is helpful in slowing the process of ageing. It is Ushna (hot) and Snigdha (oily) in nature. Cranberry is also useful in the prevention of urine infections.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules twice daily.

2. Spirulina capsules

Spirulina capsules contain extract of spirulina (Spirulina platensis). It is a Blue algae (Cyanobacteria) rich in antioxidants. It is rich in protein, Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and E. Spirulina has the highest ORAC value (24000).

Dosage: 1-2 capsules daily twice with plain water after meals.

3. Amalaki rasayan

Amalaki rasayan is a herbal formulation that contains Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) in its purest form. Amalaki is rejuvenating in nature. It is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants. It contains all 5 rasas (sweet, sour, bitter, astringent) except lavan rasa(salt). It is Madhura (sweet) in vipaka (post digestion effect) and shita (cold) in virya (potent energy).

Dosage: 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Immune booster

Immune booster is a wonderful formulation that contains grape seed (Vitis vinifera), Go-Piyush (Bovine colostrums), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). It contains grape seeds that are rich in antioxidants like linoleic acid, vitamin E, zinc, etc and Go-Piyush is the first milk produced after the birth of a calf. It contains proteins, antioxidants, and antibodies to fight against immune system-related disorders. In ayurveda, according to Yogratnakar milk has 10 properties that are similar to that of ojas (immunity). It is a Rasayana (rejuvenator), jeevaniya (enlivening), Medhya (improves intelligence), balya (improves immunity) in nature.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules daily twice with plain water after meals.

5. Brahmi Chyawanprash

Brahmi chyawanprash is an effective herbal formulation. It contains Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Dashmoola (Roots of 10 herbs), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bhumi amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Nagarmoola (Cyperus rotundus), and many other ayurvedic herbs. It contains Brahmi which has antioxidant properties and is responsible for enhancing memory and concentration. It is used to manage vitiated vata dosha. Acharya Chakradutta has written that Brahmi is beneficial in all types of epilepsy. It helps in aiding the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. Brahmi chyawanprash is useful in reducing oxidative stress produced by free radicals.

Dosage: 1-2 teaspoons, twice to thrice daily after meals, preferably with milk.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4030 (India), +91-172-521-4030 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

CONCLUSION

In order to reduce oxidative stress and damage caused by unstable free radicals. Nature has provided us with antioxidants that are present in the food we eat which are helpful in providing immunity and reducing the severity of diseases. Antioxidant consumption is of major concern in infections and diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases. The deficiency of antioxidants can be fulfilled by either consuming foods which are higher in ORAC values or by taking herbal supplements. Therefore, we can conclude that antioxidants play a major role in promoting good health.