Treating Ataxia the Ayurvedic way

Allopathy or the modern system of medicine labels it calls it  degenerative and often fatal disorder. It says there is no known effective treatment  for this condition. However, Ayurveda, which is perhaps the oldest system of medicine has a cure and today many doctors and hospitals are prescribing Ayurvedic cure for Spinocerebellar ataxia or SCA) as it is called.

SCA is called a progressive, degenerative  and genetic disorder which is neurodegenerative in nature. Allopathy says there is no known cure and that it can affect anybody of any age as it is caused by a gene.

Surprisingly, people are just not aware that they carry the ataxia gene until they have children who begin to show signs of having it. More than 60 different types of SCA have been identified.

SCA disorder leads to lack of coordinated walk or gait, poor coordination of the limbs and even eye movement. The disorder makes patients with SCA move their hands rather frequently and intentionally. We can also see clumsy motion of a body as there is lack of proper muscle movement.

Ataxia is thus a symptom, not a disease. It is a specific term coined for poor coordination of movement and most people suffering from ataxia walk in a  uncoordinated and unsteady manner.

Ataxia is known to affect coordination of fingers, hands, arms, speech

(dysarthria) and eye movements (nystagmus).  

Axtaxia generally results from damage to or shrinkage of the cerebellum and it is this part of the brain that controls coordination of movement. The disorder can be acquired or inherited as it is hereditary.

Thus we see that Spinocerebellar Ataxia is an illness that occurs when parts of the nervous system that control movement are either damaged or cease to function.

Some of the symptoms include lack of sleep or uncoordinated sleeping,  tremors, stiffness, depression and even spasticity. Almost all of these and many other symptoms can be easily treated by medication.

Therapeutic measures combined with regular and intensive rehabilitation regimen can help such a patient to carry out daily chores themselves such as brushing the teeth or making and drinking water and coffee.

Ayurvedic medicines like Bruhat-Vat-Chintamani, Ekang-Veer-Ras, Tapyadi-Loh, Kaishor-Guggulu, Vat-Gajankush-Ras and Maha-Vat-Vidhvans-Ras are generally used for gait instability, tremors and even loss of movement.

A variety of herbal medicines like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Naagbala (Grewia hirsuta), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Yashtimadhuk (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) and these are known to improve the blood supply to brain cells and help in regeneration of the cells.
Besides, medicines such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and Vacha (Acorus calamus) are used to improve memory and intellect.  Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Jayphal (Myristica fragrans), Khurasani ova (Hyoscyamus niger) and Tagar (Valeriana wallichii) are prescribed to treat depression and anxiety. To improve neuro-muscular coordination, Ayurveda uses Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Agnitundi-Vati, Maha-Rasnadi-Guggulu, ishtinduk-Vati, Bhallatakasav, Trayodashang-Guggulu, Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), Kuchla (Strychnos nuxvomica) and Bhallatak (Semicarpus anacardium).

Panchakarma treatment is prescribed for regaining body strength. Regular massage and medication helps alleviate many of the symptoms.
Ayurveda and the Chinese system of medicine has a cure for this disorder. The Chinese system involves replanting stem cells and this research has been successfully carried out in St. Micheal’s Hospital, Shangai, China.

In India, Ayurveda addresses the core of SCA. It tries to alleviate the many symptoms that come with the disorder. It helps a SCA patient undertake and complete his daily chores.

Ayurveda can treat both hereditary and acquired ataxia. However, a majority of the ataxias are hereditary and they are classified by chromosomal location and pattern of inheritance.The more common inherited ataxias are Friedreich’s ataxia and Machado-Joseph.

Ataxia can also be acquired from vitamin deficiency, tumors, stroke, multiple sclerosis, alcoholism, peripheral neuropathy and metabolic disorders.

Allopathy says there is no cure for the hereditary ataxias. However, ataxia caused by a metabolic disorder or vitamin deficiency can be treated with medications and controlled diet. Regular physical therapy can strengthen muscles.

Ayurveda terms ataxias as Pandu roga. It says the reason for the disorder is  due to deficiency in liver function which depletes the Dhatu in the blood which in turn cause all these symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment starts with avoiding  fried food, artificial food, green/red chillies, tomatoe, lemon, tamarind, potato and curd.

The treatment options for improving the balance in degenerative cerebellar ataxias are very few. Ayurvedic texts have described diverse treatment regimens for this disease.

Ayurvedic treatment starts with treatment of Shirobasti (therapeutic retention of medicament over the scalp) in male patients and Shirodhara (pouring of a steady stream of medicament on the forehead) in female patients with Dhanvantaram taila (medicated oil).

This is followed by by Abhyanga  or methodical massage with Dhanvantaram taila and Bhashpa sweda, which is also known as steam bath.

Apart from these two methods, Ayurveda also prescribes Abhyantara aushadha or oral medicine of Maharasnadi kashayam, Dhanvantaram capsules and Ashwagandha.

Studies have shown that this treatment did not have any side effect and there was improvement in walking and other motor movement.

In Japan, doctors have reported improvement in a case of  familial spinocerebellar ataxia 6 with typical symptoms when the patient was treated with a mixture of 18 medicinal herbs (modified Zhengan Xifeng Tang). This treatment was based on the guidelines of traditional Chinese medicine. All  the symptoms showed improvement.

A word of caution and warning though. No treatment should be undertaken on its own. Consult your family doctor first and then turn to an expert Ayurvedic expert. Even messaging correctly should be learnt from an expert.  

Ayurvedic treatment for stroke

Readers, some of them from abroad India, have written seeking  more information on Ayurvedic treatment of or for paralysis or stroke. A few readers have asked if there is an alternative for the travel to Chitoor they have to undertake to take Ayurvedic treatment at the hands of a well-known Ayurvedic practitioner.

One of the reader wanted to know if the Ayurvedic treatment is effective for brain swelling.

The swelling of the brain is called edema and it can be due to a variety of cause-from stroke or paralysis to head injury, bump on the head and even bacterial infection.

Brain swelling, if not treated initially and quickly, can lead to life threatening problems and even death. The skull around the brain is so tightly woven around the organ that it generally prevents injuries. However, when the brain begins to swell, the skull has to be cut off or part of the skull removed.

 Brain swelling is also known as elevated intracranial pressure or cerebral edema. When the swelling increases pressure inside the skull, it comes to be known as intracranial pressure, or ICP. This pressure has to be immediately reduced as it can prevent blood from flowing to the brain. It can also effectively stop other fluids from leaving the brain, leading to permanent damage to the cells or even the death of the cells. .

Ischemic strokes is regarded as the most common type of stroke and this is caused by a blood clot or blockage in or near the brain. The stops the flow of blood and oxygen into the brain and once this occurs, the brain begins to die. It is at this juncture that doctors decide to remove a part of the skull to lessen the pressure on the brain. This is called decompressive craniectomy.

Craniectomy is often resorted to in patients who have experienced a very severe brain injury involving bleeding around the brain or excessive swelling of the brain. Craniectomy, therefore, is  performed as a life saving measure.

As patients who undergo craniectomy were brought to hospitals in critical  condition, they will require a fairly long time to recover and recoup.This may take from a few months too even years.

The best manner to hasten the recovery is by going in for a comprehensive and thorough rehabilitation programme. This will be primarily aimed at regaining as much brain function as possible. By the way, replacement of the bone or skull removed during craniectomy will be undertaken months after the original injury or paralysis occurred.

Surgeons of Johns Hopkins in the United States have reported they have devised a safer method to replace the bone removed from the skull after craniectomy.
The new procedure is detailed in the US journal, Neurosurgery. The study covered 50 patients and only one of them required bone removal as he developed a deep infection.
One of the earliest systems of medicine in the world is Ayurveda. This system has a set of procedures outlined for treatment of stroke or paralysis. In Ayurveda, a stroke is called Pakshaaghaata and Ayurvedic texts say it is caused by blockage of Vaata movement.

Ayurveda uses a variety of  drugs such as Ekaanga veera ras, Vaata Gajaankush ras and Vata Chintamani ras which is also called as Brihat Vatchintamani Ras to treat strokes. As the Vatchintamani Ras contains a fairly large dosage of metals, it should only be taken under strict medical supervision. This is in tablet form and should be used only after consulting doctors.

The Ekaanga veera ras too is in tablet form and it contains heavy metals. The Gajaankush too is a tablet with heavy metal content. It is generally used for treating neuro-muscular problems. Apart from these tablets, Ayurvedic treatment also includes application of medicated oil , nasal drops  and even a special type of enema called basti or basti karma, which is one of the main procedures of the panchakarma treatment.

Palsineuron tablets has also been found effective in treating stroke.

Regular massage in Ayurvedic method is called abhyangana chikitsa. This not only ensures that the patient gets adequate exercise, but also works to free the passive movement of muscles and joints.

Gunja taila is also used in Ayurveda as an external application in paralysis. Dashmoolaarishta is another Ayurvedic input for toning up the nervous system Ayurvedic practitioners generally prescribe Maha Narayana taila for external massage. Recent research has shown that turmeric can be used an effective tool against paralysis.

Some of the herbal medicines or items that can act as a cure for strokes are garlic, carrot,  ginger, turmeric, spinach, pigweed, willow, pineapple, English pea, green tea and  ginkgo biloba, a herb commonly found in Europe and extensively used there.

Conventional Ayurvedic medications generally used for stroke also include Yograj Guggulu, Mahayograj Guggulu, Tapyadi Loha and Sameerpannag Ras.

The Chinese too have a native method for dealing with stroke. It is called Ren Shen Zai Zao Wan.

Whatever the system of medicine, always consult an expert and in cases of stroke or paralysis, never go in for self medication. Consult your family doctor first and then go to a recognized Ayurvedic practitioner. Please remember many of the allopathic drugs that are already being prescribed contain ayurvedic formulations.

What we would suggest for people suffering from stroke, paralysis or brain damage is that the patients should be given intensive rehabilitation therapy. Apart from this, regular massage and exercises can help a stroke patient become more mobile.   

Home remedies to fight arthritis

This is poised to become the biggest epidemic of the country and more than fifteen per cent of Indians suffer from it in one form or another.

This year, it had emerged as the most common ailment and both the young and significant numbers of  both the old and the young suffer from it.

While it is Osteoarthritis in people aged 65 years and above, the younger lot are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

There are more than 160 million recorded cases of arthritis in India.

Recent surveys have indicated that 70 per cent of people above the 65 years of age are suffering from arthritis in India.

Some of the most common causes for arthritis in India is obesity, bone fractures or faults around the knees, trauma to knee and  meniscus tears or ligament damage.
Initially, arthritis leads to stiffness of knees and swelling of joint. If knee replacement surgery is one of allopathy’s cure to arthritis, Ayurveda too has an answer.

Ayurvedic treatment is a rather long treatment but there are absolutely no side effects. Generally, Ayurveda prescribes a combination of Panchakarma treatment, change in diet and lifestyle and oral medication to combat arthritis.
But what very few people know is that our kitchen too could be harvested productively in our fight against arthrites. Regular consumption of  some kitchen ingredients such as methi (fenugreek), jeera (cumin) and dhaniya (coriander) can help in the fight against arthritis.

If  Methi helps in controlling degenerative disorders. Jeera improves digestion and thereby controls obesity. Dhaniya is an age-old antacid and it is highly effective in fighting gas trouble.

Ayurveda practitioners have found that a combination of methi, jeera and dhaniya is one of the best home food to fight arthritis. What is more, they can also be consumed in raw or green form.

 Cinnamon (Dalchini) ground into paste and applied on the swollen are found to be the ideal home remedy.

Consume these kitchen ingredients and opt for regular oil massages to lessen the pain and also simultaneously reduce wear and tear of joints. Food rich in Vitamin E, calcium and oil can help prevent arthritis.

Fruits, green leafy vegetables and milk products apart from fish is generally recommended to fight arthritis. Drinking lots of water also helps.

Vegetable juices and soups are supposed to be excellent sources of strength. Juices of carrot, beat root and cucumber mixed together has been found to be beneficial. Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes and papaya have been found to contain elements that help fight arthritis.

Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin and cooking with spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric has been found to be ideal.

Ayurveda practitioners also recommend medicines and home products like ginger or shunti, bela, Kusta which is herb found in the Himalayas, shalyaki, guggulu, sahachar, rasna, nirgundi and even dattura for the battle against arthritis.

Since Vitamin D and B12 are as important as calcium to fight arthritis, exposure to sunlight every day is recommended. Direct sunlight is a good source of Vitamin D, which maintains calcium levels in your body, and B12. Milk and milk products (fat-free) and green leafy vegetables help to strengthen bones and joints.

Ayurveda says pains in the body are caused by the aggravation of vata (air) dosha. It says Arthritis is a condition which is caused by accumulation of ama, a toxic byproduct due to improper digestion,  and aggravation of vata. The ama deposits at certain sites in the body. When ama deposits in the joints and there is simultaneous aggravation of vata, it results in amavata.

To effectively combat amavata, Ayuuveda stresses diet. It says once a proper diet is followed, no further ama is produced. Another method to cure ama is by fasting.

Ayurveda recommends avoiding eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets and beverages such as tea, coffee, alcohol, yogurt, chocolate and cocoa.

Copenhagen University, Denmark, in a research project, found that  73 of the 230 patients with joint pains given a mixture of one tablespoon honey and half a teaspoon cinnamon powder before breakfast were relieved of pain and within a month most of the patients who could not walk or who had limited mobility, walked without pain.

Thus we see that a change in the dietary and food habits will lead to better management against arthritis. We can make use of local Indian herbs, medicines, spices and fruits and vegetables to lead a more balanced and healthy life.

Ayurveda herbs to cure paralysis

One of the readers of our blog, Samyuktha Harshitha, has written about the medication he has been taking for paralysis and only the little recovery he has had from it.  

Some have said that they had an attack of paralysis years ago and that they are on medication. Apart from medicines, they say you have been prescribed physiotherapy. Well, since there is a slight improvement, however slight it may be, we request that it be continued.

Many of you have read about the Ayurvedic cure to paralysis and you have asked us for some basic answers. Many have asked whether there is really a cure and whether this cure can come from this treatment (Ayurveda).

Well, we are not doctors. We have only carried information about the Ayurvedic cure to our readers so that they can check it out. We have no contact or information about the doctor we have mentioned in the post “An Ayurvedic cure to Paralysis”, and we are in no way connected with him or his cure. Our desire was only to highlight the Ayurvedic or rather the old Indian system of treating debilities.

Whether such treatment is successful is not, only time can tell. If allopathy has failed to give you the desired relief, why not try other methods. After all, Ayurveda is not quackery and it is an ancient system of medicine and allopathy or English medicine came to India only after the British came to India. Till then, we had our own Vaids and they treated every disease. So why not try it out as long as the allopathy doctor has no objection and as long as it is not life threatening or expensive. Give it a try, bur before doing so thoroughly check out the antecedents of the practitioner and the treatment he or such centres offer.  

Another query asked is whether the patient has to go to the Ayurvedic practitioner mentioned in the post. Yes, no doctor will prescribe medicines or treat a patient without looking at the patient first.

In case the paralysis is of a serious nature and the patient cannot move, we recommend that you correspond directly with the Ayurvedic practitioner and check whether it is possible to come and meet him without bringing the patient. The address of Mr. Mohan Rao is as follows: Mr. C. Mohan Rao, s/o C. Ranoji Rao, Virupakshipuram village, Chappidipalle, Pin 517 432, Chitoor taluk, Andhra Pradesh The contact numbers are: Mobile 94404 59200 and landline 08579 200347. If you are confused, come to Palamneer and ask for Baireddipalli mandal. It is easy to get directions from there.

Now let us come back to the ayurvedic treatment for paralysis.

Generally, Ayurvedic treatment for paralysis also includes strict and vigorous diet. An ayurvedic patient is supposed to eat only freshly cooked food and food is bitter, pungent and astringent in taste, should be avoided. Some vegetables and fruits are asked to be avoided
In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha or Winter Cherry and Bala or Country Mallow and several medicated oils and paste is extensively used to cure paralysis.

Please check out books on Ayurveda and you are sure to come across cures for several modern day diseases. Paralysis too has been dealt with in Ayurvedic texts under and as Vata Vyadhi disorder. 

Ayurveda refers to paralysis in terms of  Paksaghata, Paksha Vadha and Ekanga Vata. The paralysis of the face or facial paralysis has been called Ardita vata. There are ways how these debilities are to be treated.

Several Ayurveda centres and Ayurvedic experts offer Panchakarma therapy as a cure for paralysis. Apart from this treatment, you have to undergo several other treatments such as Sarvanga Dhara, Pichu, Vasti and enter into a strict diet regimen for getting the better of paralysis.  
B the way, Nasya or herbal nasal drops has shown positive results in curing paralysis.

But please remember one thing. There are several types and varieties of paralysis

The spinal cord paralysis is called paraplegia and as the name itself suggest injury to the spinal cord causes this debility. It can interfere with the functioning of the motor movement, particularly the limbs. It is generally accompanied by loss of sensation below the level of injury and disturbed bladder function.

Diplegia is a severe form of paralysis affecting both the left and right side of the body and the limbs. Hemiplegia is when it affects only one side of the body and in such cases, movements of the face are more affected.  

Cerebral diplegia is more severe and dangerous and the damage here is rather widespread. Monoplagia  is the paralysis of a single part of the body. Polio is also a paralysis which occurs in infants. It is called Poliomyelitis or infantile Paralysis. Locomotor Ataxia or Tabes dorsalis affects sensory nerves and it can lead to reduced, partial or blurred vision.

Facial paralysis, muscular atrophy and Parkinsons are also varities of paralysis. Parkinson is characterised by uncontrollable shaking or trembling and this is technically known as Paralysis Agitans. Home remedies for Ayurveda and massage for the affected parts are recommended by ayurveda experts. You can try out several combinations and permutations and they depend on the nature and extent of the paralysis. However, ashwagandha is common for all treatments.

 Other herbs for a home remedy can include  for following combinations either severely or jointly, depending upon stage, condition and symptoms of the subject patient.

Some of them used for treatment include Rasnadi Kashaya, a liquid, also known as  Rasnadi Kwath kashaya or kwatha. This is mainly used by Kerala Ayurvedic practitioners. It is extensively prescribed to treat osteo arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

Vata or Mahavat Vidhwansan Rasa is in tablet form and it is prescribed by north Indian practitioners of Ayurveda. It is used in the treatment of Vata disorders, paralysis, bloating, abdominal pain, epilepsy and even spleen related disorders. Since it contains heavy metal ingredients, it should only be taken under strict medical supervision. This medicine is administered for a month and not for longer periods.

Ashwagandha is also known as Withania somnifera, Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry or winter cherry. Its long, brown, tuberous roots are used for medicinal purposes.The berries and leaves are applied externally to tumors, tubercular glands, carbuncles, and ulcers. The roots are used to prepare ashwagandha.

In a clinical trial four years ago, ashwagandha exhibited greater clinical benefit than psychotherapy in treating mental health (anxiety level), concentration, fatigue, social functioning, vitality, and overall quality of life.

Chopchinyadi Churna is a herbal powder used in treating insect bite, rheumatoid arthritis, gout arthritis, in treatment of syphilis, gonorrhea, Herpes genitalis and other venereal diseases, boils, rashes, carbuncles, wounds, chronic wounds and Fistula.
It is useful in all types of abscess. Today, it is widely used to  correct the structural and physiological deformity of sperms and thus forms an important drug in treating infertility.

Pippali or Pipli is carminative. It is acrid, hot and light. A  digestive, it si prescribed as an appetizer. It can cure diabetes, leprosy, chronic fever, cough, dyspnoea, ascites, piles, indigestion, colic, indigestion, anaemia and worm troubles. 

It is also prescribed for respiratory and cardiac problems as it relieves spasms and constipation. It is also used to treat insomnia. It is also an anti-cancer agent.

The Brihat Vatchintamani Ras is a tablet and prescribed for paralysis, hemiplegia, facial palsy, tremors.  It is an excellent rejuvenative and anti-aging Ayurvedic medicine. Today, it is also prescribed for Pitta disorders such as migraine, vertigo, digestive disorders.

The above mentioned are some of the commonly used Ayurvedic combinations to treat paralysis. A combination of these will go a long way in the treatment of  paralysis. So please check with your doctor for the correct dosage and usage.
Apart from these drugs, use the various tailas available for massage. A combination of tailas and drugs can help you on road to recovery.    

By the way, one of the readers mentioned that he has been prescribed clopilet75mg, Ecospirin 150 mg, Telsorton h active 40 mg and Glimy m 1 and that there is only a slight improvement.

If what we surmise from these medicines is right, here are some details about the drugs that have been prescribed.

Ecosprin contains Aspirin and its regular intake can lead to several side effects such as nausea, headache and stomach irritation. 

Clopid 75 mg is generally prescribed  for patients after they undergo angioplasty. It is used for patients with increased risk of blood clotting, myocardial infarction, coronary bypass, transluminal angioplasty, strokes and transient ischaemic attack.

Its continued use can lead to side effects such as Urticaria, Gi bleeding, rhinitis, angioneurotic edema, hepatitis, hepatomegaly, cerebral hemorrhage, airway obstruction, gastric ulceration, gastric erosion, dizziness, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, eigastric discomfort, dyspepsia, asthma, respiratory alkalosis, bleeding. Telsartan is mostly used in the treatment of hypertension, for BP protection especially in the risky early-morning hours.

Clopid contains Clopidogrel, the chemical that helps prevent clotting of blood. Its side effects are nausea, bleeding and neutropenia.

Clopilet A (75mg) comes in 10 Capsules in a strip. Clopidogrel bisulfate, which is present in the drug is an anti-platelet element. This prevents platelets from grouping together as part of a blood clot.  Thus, it prevents blood clots by irreversibly binding to the P2Y12 receptor on platelets and preventing adenosine diphosphate (ADP) from activating the platelets. Other drugs in this class include Ticagrelor (Brilinta) and Prasugrel (Effient).

Clopidogrel bisulfate is used to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in these patients.

Telsorton h active 40 mg in India is manufactured by Dr, Reddy’s. Its main composition is Telnisartan + HCT.  This is generally used for treating high blood pressure. This drug should be able to reduce your BP within a few  weeks. However, you have to continue with it as it is not curative drug and it merely controls high BP.

The possible side effects include: dizziness, fatigue, Diarrhea, dizziness, sinus inflammation and upper respiratory infection. 

Telsartan-H can cause low blood pressure, especially if you are also taking another diuretic. This may make you feel light-headed or faint or both.

Glimy M1 Tab1x15 is also a drug by Dr. Reddy’s. It mainly contains the generic drug Glimepiride. Regular usage can cause nausea, stomach problems, skin rash and even acute toxicity. This is an oral hypoglycemic antidiabetic drug prescribed for type 2 diabetes.

Well, if you look at the medicines you are taking, they are making you feel weak or faint. Please consult your physician so that he can either rework the dosage or give you tablets and medicines to make you feel more active.

Even if there is a slight improvement and you say there is, please do not give up. Paralysis is definitely a testing and demanding debility. The best way is to fight it out.

Apart from private doctors, clinics and hospitals, Bangalore has in NIMHANS one of the best neurological hospitals and research centres.

BY the way, researchers and doctors at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, a Center of Excellence, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, performed the first-ever Food and Drug Administration approved Schwann cell transplantation in a patient who suffered a (new) spinal cord injury. The procedure is a clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of transplanting the patient’s own Schwann cells. This trial is extremely important in curing paralysis.

Doctors say there is currently no cure for permanent paralysis. The aim of post paralysis treatment is to help a person adapt to life by making them as independent as possible.

Another goal is to address health problems and associated complications that arise from paralysis. Today, there is a wide range of assistive technology that can help a paralysed person maintain independence and at the same time improve the quality of life. 

Ayurveda claims to have a cure for paralysis. Please check with a well-known Ayurveda practitioner and be sure to keep you allopathic doctor in the loop. Never go against the advice and prescription of your doctor. Consult the doctor at every stage.

Well, please let us know whether our information was helpful. We will do all we can to help you overcome your difficulties.

A little more information from you about the nature and extent of the paralysis, your family and its background will help us give you more information.

Take heart. Never give up. And do write back. 

An ayurvedic cure to paralysis

I was his student more than two decades ago. We met when he settled down with his son in Bangalore. By then, I was already in Bangalore.

My teacher’s wife had a stroke and she lost partial control over her left hand and one leg. Then followed the most painful movement as my teacher and his wife made a tour of  hospitals, diagnostic clinics and physio therapy centres.

There was improvement but my teacher’s wife could not regain full control over her left arm. She found difficulty in flexing her fingers and lifting weights or rather articles and even small things as combing her hair, became difficult.

Things went to such an extent that one day she when she entered the pooja room to light a lamp, the burning matchstick burnt p[art of her finger. You see, she could not throw away the match stick after lighting the lamp. Though her brain gave her a command to pout down the stick, the muscles refused to follow suit. The burning stick got extinguished only after it singed her finger.

Enough is enough said my teacher and in consultation with his son and daughter-in-law decided to opt for a home remedy at a remote place in Andhra Pradesh.

My teacher and his wife hired a car and went to the place in Andhra Pradesh which has attained fame for treating patients suffering from paralysis, stroke and other nerve related diseases.

This story is of my teacher and here it goes.

Three days ago, we hired a car and set out to Virupakshipuram which had become famous for its home remedy to cure people of their paralysis.

We had already been told about the healer and we set out from Bangalore early in the morning. We drove all along the national a highway upto Palamneer from where we took a deviation to a small village called Virupakshapuram. This is Andhra Pradesh and do not confuse it with the village near Mulabagal which is famous for the Virupaksha temple.

By the way, you have to cross Mulabagal to reach the Andhra Pradesh border. Virupakshipuram is a small hamlet in Chappidipalle in Chittor district of  Andhra Pradesh.

Once we entered the village, we found more than 100 cars already parked in a large open field with tamarind trees. As soon as we entered, we saw the healer, Mohan Rao, the son of Ranoji Rao.

Mr. Rao looked at all his patients and gave each a glass of ayurvedic liquid mixture and a fistful of rice. My wife

 First drank the liquid and then eat the raw rice.

We were then shown into a fairly big hall built by Mr Rao to help patients who come to him and their relatives take rest. We were asked to see Mr Rao again after three hours. We spent time in the hall, talking to each other and hoping for the best. Time flew quickly and we were ushered into the room where Mr. Rao treated his patients.

He once again gave my wife the Ayurvedic liquid and again a fistful of rice. This time around he gave boiled rice so that my wife could eat. There was just boiled rice and nothing else. No sambar, no rasam, no pickles or curds.

We were asked to come to him the third and final time. This time around, he gave us three bottles of the Ayurvedic liquid and asked for Rs. 500 as charges.

When my wife mentioned that her hand is still not okay, he just smiled and said everything would be all right. Take the medicines for about a fortnight and by then the stiffness in the left hand and the numbness will disappear. If not come again and take the same treatment, he said.

He then said my wife’s left hand deserved more vigorous physio therapy and he held her hand and lifted it above her head. He asked me to help my wife lift her hand in this manner every day.

We came back by evening to Bangalore and since then we have been following the routine set out by Mr Rao. He asked us not to eat meat or drink alcohol. Since we are vegetarians and Brahmins, we have no problem about the diet he has prescribed.

He has asked us to avoid food stuffs that will aggravate the paralysis or numbness. Avoid food that will warm your body, he told my wife.

By now, I have come to know that Mr. Mohan Rao belongs to the Marati family and that he has followed the footsteps of his father, Ranoji Rao, in giving home made medicines.

The home made Ayurvedic decoction is rich in blood stimulating ingredients. The medicine is made up of coriander, red chili, tamarind, cumin, ginger, pepper and goat milk.

The cure to paralysis is by traditional method of treatment. The family of Mr Rao is known for this treatment for over one hundred years.

The medicines have to be taken thrice a day between two hours interval and it has to be continued for a fortnight. Further treatment  depends upon the extent of paralysis.

The intake of  food stuffs and articles such as Urad dhal, sweet, chilled items has to be decreased gradually and Mr. Rao  recommends that the body kept warm.

The address is Mr. C. Mohan Rao, S/O C. Ranoji Rao, Virupakshipuram (village) Chappidipalle - 517 432. Chittor District, Andhra Pradesh, India. The Mobile number is  94404 59200: Phone no: 08579 200347.

Reach Virupakshapuram early so as to avail the benefit of treatment. The village is near Palamneer.  It is also approachable from Kuppam.

The making of the legendary paste

Chyawanprash, the Ayurvedic paste, is generally reckoned to be the oldest commercial brand in the world. It was created or rather formulated in India by ancient Ayurvedic experts several thousands years ago and since then it has been selling in large numbers both in India and abroad.

The Chyawanprash was and still is a paste of 46 herbs and shrubs. It is also credited with being the oldest generic brand formulation. The tale of this herbal paste is fascinating.

The first mention of the Chyawanprash is during the Vedic age, more than several thousand years ago. The saints, Brighu and Chyavana lived thousands of years ago in north India and they were gifted this rare combination of herbs in Dhosi Hills in Haryana.

The Doshi Hills have several varieties of herbs and shrubs and it is a rare repository of Ayurvedic plants and trees. There is something in the land and water of the Hills that makes the herbs so special.   

The twin Ashwinis-experts in Ayurvedas and physicians of Gods- prepared Chyawanaprash by grinding the herbs to prepare the paste.

Various religious, medical and philosophical texts, including the Mahabharata and Puranas tell us that this formulation was first prepared by the Royal Vaids of Gods- the Ashwini twins-10,000 years ago, for Chyawan Rishi at his Ashrama on Dhosi Hills near Narnaul in Haryana. It also borders Rajasthan.

This is how the formulation came to be known as Chyawanprash. However, the first historically documented formula for chyawanprash is found in Charaka samhita, the ancient Ayurvedic text.

Another paste “manufactured” from herbs in the Hill is Kayakalp, a skin toning and glowing process. This made Chyavana look young and energetic. This story is mentioned in the Puranas, Brahamanas and the Mahabharata.

Besides these two pastes, the hills have several ponds or kalyanis which are supposed to have medicinal properties. People come from several states crossing thousands of kilometers to take a dip in these ponds which are supposed to rejuvenate the body.

Chyawanprash is widely consumed in India and south Asia because of its health benefits. The market size of chyawanprash in 2010 was Rs. 400 Crores or Rs 4 billion (about 80 million US dollars). Amla is the main ingredient and today’s paste has anything from 29 to 80 herbs.

The Mahabharata says the hills were formed after a volcanic eruption during the beginning Treta Yuga. This is described by Sage Shaunak, who had accompanied Pandavas during their visit to the hills as part of their agnyatawasa   some 5100 years ago. Lava, in solidified condition, can still be seen on one side of the hill.

As per Manusmriti, this hill is part of the Vedic state of Brahmavarta which is also called as Devabhoomi. Apart from Manu, rishis like Durvasa, Piplad, Chyavana lived in the vicinity. It also says that Brahmavarta was situated at the confluence of two revered rivers-Saraswathi and Drishadwati near the Hills.

Dhosi Hills is in Mahendragarh district of Haryana, about 8 kms from Narnaul town. It is connected by road to Delhi, Gurgoan, Rohtak, Rewari, in Haryana, and Jaipur, Jhunjhunu, Behror in Rajasthan.

Buses depart from the main bus interchange junction in Narnaul to these and other towns of Haryana  and Rajasthan. Narnaul is located on the Chandigarh-Delhi-Ringas-Abu Road-Ahmedabad-Mumbai railway track. Only seven trains run on this section.

The nearest airport is Delhi, which is 130 kms away. Jaipur is 160 kms away. There is an airstrip located at Bachhod village 10 km from Narnaul and it is mainly used as a flying club.

The Thonde Kai Swamy

India is home to numerous systems of medicine and perhaps the most popular among them is Ayurveda.

Ayurveda as system of medicine is mentioned even in the Puranas and ancient Indians had mastered the art of Ayurveda. The God of healing, Dhanavantari, was an expert in Ayurveda.

Legendary figures in Hindu mythology such as Ravana were experts in Ayurveda. Ravana has also authored books on Ayurveda. Hanuman carrid the Sanjeevanai hill which was full of medicinal plants.

The study of  shastars in ancient days included the study of Ayurveda and this perhaps made several religious leaders, saints and seers masters of the Ayurveda.

Medicines and tablets till the 18^th century in India were made out of plants and creepers and mathas and homes grew shunti (ginger), sweet potato, saffron powder or turmeric, soppu (leaves), vegetables not only for coking but also for preparing Ayurvedic products.

The close connection between mathas (religious institutions), religious heads and Ayurveda continued from the ancient times till recently. It was only with the advent of the British that the allopathy made headway in India.

One of the seers who was also an expert in Ayurveda was Lakshmipathi Theertha of Sripadaraja Matha, Mulabagal.

Lakshmipathi Theertha  succeeded Lakahmi Manohara Theertha as the pontiff of Sripadaraja Matha.

Lakshmipathi Theertha had a deep interest in Ayurveda and he became a expert at dispensing Ayurvedic medicines. He himself prepared the medicines from herbs and plants

He continued treating people even after he headed the Sripadaraja Matha. He was the matha head till 1715.

Lakshmipathi Thertha had become such an expert in Ayurveda, he knew the medicinal value of plants, herbs and even vegetables. The seer had realized the  nutritional and medicinal value of certain vegetables centuries before researchers and food scientists had zeroed in on them.         

 The Madhwa Mathas have a rigid system of diet  where some  vegetables cannot be consumed at all. Certain types of vegetables and fruits can be consumed only during certain periods of the year or masas as they are called, All the Madhwa mathas follow this system and the Sripadaraja matha is no exception.

 Lakshmipathi Theertha, however, managed to distinguish between Sampradaya (tradition) and need. He realized the value of certain vegetables in Ayurveda and felt that they had to be used in the herbal decoction or paste. He thus used Thonde Kai extensively in preparing Ayurvedic preparations.

Thonde Kai is known as Coccinia or Manohi. It is a small greenish vegetable with high nutritional value. Lakshmipathi Theertha realized the invaluable medicinal properties of Thonde Kai and used them in almost all his regular Ayurvedic preparations.

Even as his fame as an Ayurveda expert spread far and wide, his use of Thonde Kai was grudgingly accewpted by the orthodox Brahmoi community then. This is because Thonde Kai is not prepared by followers of the Uttaradi and Ragjhaveendra Swamy Matha.  To these two mathas, Thonde Kai is a nishidda tarakari  (banned vegetable).

Indeed, so famous did Lakshmipathi Theertha become, that he came to be better known as Thonde Kai Swamy. Even today, the Sripadaraja Matha serves Thonde Kai in memory of this saint.  

So, he was also known as Thondekai Swamy.

More than 300 years after he first made systematic use of Thonde Kai, researchers and doctors of the Institute of  Population Health and Clinical Research, Bangalore,  say that regular and daily use of Thonde Kai can normalize your blood sugar levels.

The research said coccinia could reduce post-prandial glucose after a meal by 18 per cent. The sugar count level can come down by sixteen per cent by just ingesting this vegetable.

Some of the findings of this research was first published in the international journal of Diabetes Care.  

Lakshmipathi Theertha used Thonde Kai to cure people of diabetes and sugar urine.

The Thonde Kai is also called Kundru. In Telugu, it is called Dondakai and Kovvaikai in Tamil. In Malayalam, it is called Kovakka.

It was not only Lakshmipathi Theertha who was an expert on Ayurveda. Medhanidhi Theertha, also a pontiff of the Sripadaraja  Matha was an expert Ayurvedic. He was the pontiff of the Sripadaraja Matha from 1908 to 1926.

Thus, long before science came out with the medicinal values of herbs, plants and vegetables, our ancestors discovered them and used them for the good of the people. Let us, at the least,  acknowledge the contribution of Thonde Kai Swamy.

 

The world's first pediatrician

Not many know that Raavana was the great grandson of Brahma. He is also the world’s first pediatrician (specialist in children’s disease).

Ravaana’s grandfather was sage Pulasthi who was one of the six sons of Brahma. Pulasthi had a son called Vishrava.

Vishrava married a second time. His second wife was Kaikasi and Ravaana was their son. Ravana’s other brothers are Kuberaa, Vibheeshana, Kumbakarana, Kara and Dushana.

Ravaana ruled over Lanka 5,000 years ago and religious texts of Lanka and India say he was well-versed in ten arts. The arts are medicine (ayurveda), music (He invented the bow stringed violin and also sand the first ragas), astronomy,   acupuncture, metallurgy, architecture.

The texts Bisajjya Grantha and Nadi Shasthra says Ravaana and his grandfather Pulasthi had actively participated in musical  conferences held Janasthan Pura now in  Pakistan.

Ravaana was a pioneer is Arka Shastra. In this system of Ayurveda, herbs were used to cure diseases. He wrote Arka Prakasa, a book on tinctures and extracts from herbs. He was a master in preparing tinctures that cured wounds instantly. He knew the amount of Mercury to be used in herbal preparation to cure diseases.

Nadi Pariksha is a book on how to examine a person by checking his pulse.

He is also the author of Kumara Tantra or Ravaana Samhita which is an incomplete poetical composition. This work shows the depth and expertise of Ravaana on medicines and drugs to be used to cure diseases. There is information on how to deal with diseases suffered by children. The book starts with a chapter on motherhood and the diseases suffered by expectant mothers and the manner in which they have to be treated.

This book can be described as the first text in the world on pediatrics. It contains twelve chapters. Some of the diseases of children discussed are hiccups, vomiting, dysentery, diarrohea, ulcer of the mouth, post-teething problems  and swelling of the navel.

He wrote the book at the request of Mandodari when she was pregnant. Nadi-pariksha (a short work in 96 verses give the details of pulse-examination).

In Arkya Prakasha, he deals with astronomy of his times. The book is interesting as it is based on conversation between Ravaana and his wife Mandodari. It is the form of question and answer. Another work is Ravaana Samhita. It deals with astrology. Even today, astrologers refer it as it has details on how to predict one’s future.