Ayurveda
means "the Science of
Life." It is the traditional natural
healing system of India, having been practiced there for over 6000
years. It was established by the same enlightened sages who composed
the Vedas, India's ancient spiritual texts.
Its purpose is to provide
a
framework of health for the whole person:
body, mind and spirit. As such, it deals not only with disease, but
also with rejuvenation, virilization and longevity.
The main tools Ayurveda
utilizes
to achieve health are diet, lifestyle,
herbs and bodywork, although it also possesses a sophisticated branch
of
surgery.
Chief among Ayurveda's
outstanding attributes is its recognition of the
uniqueness of each individual, thereby allowing treatment to be
tailored
to that individual and their environment. For those wishing to learn
more about Ayurveda, the are a number of
excellent books and courses available. We especially recommend the
books of Drs. Vasant Lad, Robert Svoboda and David Frawley.
What is Ayurvedic Oil Therapy?
Ayurvedic
Oil Therapy
"Oil
is specific for Vata (wind) disorders. As these constitute the majority
of diseases, oil therapy is essential for most forms of treatment. It
is indicated in diseases of the nervous system, bones and the deeper
tissues. It is useful for the other doshas as well." - Dr. David
Frawley, "Ayurvedic Healing.
Called "Abhyanga,"
oil massage has for thousands of years played an important role in
Ayurvedic health care. Beyond the obvious benefits of moisturizing and
nourishing the skin, oils transmit their own qualities to the body on a
deep physiological and psychological level.
The
unctuousness of oil serves as an antidote to many of the scourges of
modern life, such as overindulgence, addictions, irregularity, constant
travel, stress and loneliness. It benefits the very young and the very
old, the undernourished and the over-worked.
In addition, oil
massage serves
as a vehicle for the subtle powers of herbs, bypassing the digestive
system and transporting their properties deep within the tissues.
As an indispensable
preliminary
to the Ayurvedic purification therapy known as Panchakarma, Abhyanga
helps loosen and relocate imbalances so that they can be easily removed
from the system.
Shirodhara and Pizichil
are
ancient and unique Ayurvedic therapies that are now gaining popularity
in deluxe spas and health resorts worldwide, both by virtue of their
effectiveness and their sensation of utter luxury.
In Shirodhara, warm oil is
continuously and rhythmically poured on the
forehead, while in Pizichil the treatment is expanded to the entire
body. Shirodhara alleviates excess Vata, mental stress and nervous
tension, enhances circulation in the brain, improves memory, nourishes
the hair, provides sound sleep and calms the body and mind.
Even without access to
a Spa,
the benefits of Ayurvedic Oil Therapy can be enjoyed. Many health
conscious people are making self-massage part of their daily routine.
Often this is performed in the morning upon rising. An appropriate oil
is selected, then heated to slightly warmer than body temperature. It
can be applied to the entire body, or to specific areas of attention.
Strokes should be towards the poles of the body and circular at the
joints. The oil can either be left on or washed off, after being
allowed some time to absorb into the body. A steam treatment or hot
bath following the Abhyanga will magnify its effects, although in some
cases heat treatment may be contra-indicated.
Medicated Oils
In
Kerala, the Ayurvedic Art of medicating oils has reached its fullest
flowering. Nowhere else have oils been empowered, through tradition,
research and revelation over the centuries, to act on such a panoply of
conditions with such effectiveness.
Starting with oils
such as
Sesame, Castor or Coconut, which absorb quickly and are easily digested
by the tissues, the recipes draw from a pharmacopoeia of well over 100
herbs, to combine and concentrate numerous healing properties, some
strong, some subtle. Bitter herbs induce the tissues to expel toxins.
Astringent herbs enhance cellular secretions. Pungent and aromatic
herbs remove obstructions in the channels. Sweet and tonic herbs
nourish and strengthen the tissues. Other herbs direct effects to
specific systems and parts of the body. Each oil provides a synergistic
action for a particular range of constitutions and conditions.
Abhyanga (Oil
Therapy) - Called Abhyanga, the
application of oil to the skin has for
thousands of years played an important role in Ayurvedic health care.
Beyond the obvious benefits of moisturizing and nourishing the skin,
Oil
Therapy treats Vata conditions, emaciation and weaknesses of the lungs,
bones and nervous system. It is good for the old and the very
young; it helps reverse the effects of over-indulgence, irregularity
and loneliness.
In Kerala,
in the far South of India, the Ayurvedic art of making medicinal
oils has reached it's fullest flowering. Pure, easily absorbed
oils such as sesame,
coconut and castor are combined with herbs according to recipes from
ancient
texts. These formulas provide a deep-reaching, synergistic
action for the skin, muscles, blood, nerves and organs.
As an indispensable preliminary to the Ayurvedic
purification therapy known
as Panchakarma,
Abhyanga with medicated oils induces the tissues
to expel toxins and enhances their secretions. It lubricates and
protects the tissues, pacifies and nourishes Vata and removes
obstructions in the channels. With the luxurious yet powerful
treatments of Shirodhara and Pizichil, Abhyanga is finding it's way into deluxe Health Retreats
and Day Spas throughout mainstream America.
For many health-concious people,
Ayurvedic self-massage
is becoming a part of their daily routine. First, the appropriate oil
is
selected (Tri Health offers 24 unique massage oils, each
suited for
different constitutions and ailments.) Ideally, the oil is heated to
slightly
warmer than body temperature. It is then applied to the entire body, or
to
specific areas of attention. Strokes should be towards the poles of the
body, not across. The oil can either be left on, or washed off (after
being
allowed at least half an hour to absorb into the body.) A steam
treatment
or hot bath following the Abhyanga will magnify it's effects, although
in
some cases heat treatment may be contra-indicated.
Shirodhara
Is
the continous and rythmic pouring of warm oil on the forehead. This
unique therapy, developed thousands of years ago by the sages of
Ayurveda,
is currently enjoying a vogue amidst deluxe Health Spas and
cutting-edge
therapy givers.
The
reason? Shirodhara is not only exceedingly effective in alleviating
high Vata, mental stress and nervous tension, all of which are rampant
in modern society, but it feels utterly luxurious and nurturing, like a
guilty pleasure that is actually good for you. Regular Shirodhara
enhances circulation in the brain, improves memeory, nourishes the
hair,
provides sound sleep and calms the body and mind. Naturally, the
quality and effectiveness of a Shirodhara treatment consist largely in
the quality and characteristics of the oil used.
Massage
therapists in America have customarily paid little attention to the
nutritional and medicinal capabilities of oils, yet inappropriate or
unmedicated oils will severely limit the benefits incurred by a
Shirodhara. Tri Health is now making available the traditional thaila (medicated sesame oils) of Kerala, South India.
One
of the most striking aspects of Ayurveda in Kerala, as it evolved
somewhat isolated from the cultural masalas that influenced Ayurveda to
the North, is it's amazing array of medicated oils developed and
retained over the centuries. Nowhere else in the world
is to be found such a sophisticated knowledge of the medicinal
capabilities
and powers of herbally infused oils. Thaila are several which are specifically
indicated for Shirodhara. According to the Ayurvedic Texts, Dhanwantharam, Chandanadi, Ksheerabala,
Bala, Mahanarayana, Prabhanjanam and Sahacharadi are all outstanding Shirodhara oils.
Which one is used depends upon the
constitution of the patient and the desired effects.
For more specific information about
each oil, please read the link, Thailams.
More About Rasayana
Out of the eight
branches of
Ayurveda, "Ra-sy-a-na" is one of the most important. Rasa means "food
juices", the nutritional essence of food, and Ayana means "movement" or
"circulation." Rasayana treatment transports Rasa thoughout the body,
nourishing and maintaining cells and systems, encouraging the growth of
new cells and expelling damaged cells and toxins.
According to the
Charaka Samhita, an ancient and primary Ayurvedic
text, Rasayana is a substance that "promotes vigour in the healthy;" -
it increases Ojas, complexion, glow and the essence of the seven dhatus
(tissues.) Charaka says "long life, heightened memory and intelligence,
freedom from disease, youth, excellence of lustre, complexion and
voice, optimum strength of body and senses, utterances that always get
fulfilled, the reverence of people, body glow -- all these does a
person obtain by the use of Rasayanas."
The
aim, then, of a Rasayana, is not merely to increase longevity, but to
also increase energy and stamina so that one may enjoy one's long life.
For further information
on our Rasayana products, please click on the following link:
Chyavanaprasam
"This is that very Chyavanaprasam, the highest Rasayana. It is
specially recommended for the cure of cough and dyspnoea and as a body
builder for the emaciated, for those suffering from pectoral lesions,
for the aged and for children. It also subdues such disorders as loss
of voice, diseases of the chest and heart, thirst and disorders of a
rheumatic type. It should be used in such doses as will not interfere
with the normal meals. Intelligence, memory, lustre, immunity from
disease, longevity, increased sense power, amative delights, heightened
activity of the gastric fire, clearness of complexion, the regularity
of peristalsis Ð all these a man obtains from the use of this
Rasayana.
By retiring into a retreat and resorting to this medicine, a man will
shed his infirmities and emerge with fresh youth." - Charaka Samhita
Widely known as
"Chyawanprash,"
this is the most famous of Ayurvedic Rasayanas. Indeed, it is available
in most Indian groceries and many Health Food stores worldwide, and for
good reason. It is one of the closest things to a universal rejuvenator
-- affordable, tasty, effective, beneficial to most and harmful to few.
But, there is a significant difference between Chyavanaprasams; some of
the ways in which larger firms compromise on quality to cut costs
include use of Amla (the primary ingredient) that has been pulped and
stored, use of white sugar, omission of hard-to-procure ingredients and
deviation from the classical recipes.
The Chyavanaprasam
produced by
the Kerala Ayurveda Pharmacy is, like all their products, of the
highest quality. The Amla is harvested from the jungles and mountains
where it grows wild, not from plantations (where the fruit is larger
but of lower quality.) Fresh Amla, not pulp, is used for each batch;
natural raw sugar and pure ghee are used. The recipe given in the
Astanga Hridaya, a classical text, is followed strictly. The result is
striking; on first taste, you'll find our Chyavanaprasam noticeably
richer, less sweet and more potent than other brands you may have
tried. Our Chyavanaprasam is truly a powerful rejuvenator giving
profound benefits when taken over a period of time.
Lehyams
These are also known as medicinal jams, the most famous of which is
Chyavanaprasam (Chyawanprash.) Rasayanas (revitalizers) are most often
administered in the form of Lehyams.
The reason for this is
twofold.
Firstly, herbs, when prepared in this manner, retain their medicinal
properties indefinitely. Most importantly, the addition of ghee, honey
and raw sugar serves to enhance and magnify the tonic powers of these
herbs. Ghee (clarified butter) is considered by Ayurveda to be one of
the best of all nutritive substances. Raw honey increases Agni, the
digestive fire, and, combined with ghee, speeds the herbal properties
to deep and subtle tissues of the body. Raw sugar tonifies and cools
the tissues.
A properly prepared
Lehyam acts directly to feed Ojas, the subtle essence of the body which
is the foundation of health.
Agasthyarasayanam "A-gust-ya-ra-sy-a-na"
is a wonderful tonic that targets the respiratory system. It is unique
by virtue of the fact that, unlike most other Rasayanas, it can be
taken effectively while the body contains ama, or toxins.
Agasthyarasayana, then,
helps
the body retain and muster strength to combat all manner of respiratory
ailments, whereas most other respiratory remedies are less useful once
the body is in the throes of illness.
It strengthens the
lungs and
battles lung infection. It effectively treats bronchitis, cough,
asthma, tuberculosis, allergy, sinusitis, rhinitis, hiccups, shortness
of breath and fever. Additionally, it nourishes the digestive system
and, relieving constipation and bodily heaviness, gives a sense of
peace. 16 oz. (454 gm.)
Shatavarigula The primary herb of this Lehyam
is Shatavari, considered the main Rasayana for the female organs.
Shatavarigulam
is an excellent general female tonic. Recommended to help treat
menstrual dysfunctions such as PMS, amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea, it is
also effective in ensuring long-term reproductive and menstrual health.
Additionally, it is used for urinary tract infections, gonorrhea,
leucorrhea and painful urination, as well as all uterine complications.
It should be taken with warm milk. 16 oz. (454 gm.)
More About Arishtams
Arishtam (Naturally Fermented
Herbal Supplements)
The preparation of
Arishta, often known as medicinal wines, has been another unique
specialty of Ayurveda for centuries.
Arishta are made
from herbal decoctions, while Asava are from fresh herbal juices. Herbs
prepared in this manner offer several advantages. Potencies are
preserved indefinitely and assimilation is much enhanced. A heating and
stimulating action is effected, serving to dispel internal chill and
strengthen the metabolism and circulation.
Most importantly,
the Arishta enkindle the digestive fire and increase the appetite. Weak
digestion (Agni,) is a primary cause of most diseases and Arishta act
directly on this dysfunction. Strong Agni destroys and digests ama
(toxic accumulations) and sends the herbal components of the Arishta to
quickly perform their specific actions. This gives Arishta an advantage
over many rejuvenates, whose very richness precludes assimilation by
many in need of their benefits.
For further information
on specific arishtams we sell, please click on the following link:
This is a rich nerve
tonic
formula with a strong stimulant action. Dasamoola is a special
combination of ten herbs with the ability to act on a wide range of
health problems; those caused by both Vata and Kapha.
Among
the claims made the Sarngadhara Samhita, an ancient text, are that it
nourishes the lean, stimulates the production of Ojas and gives
progeny to the childless. It is an excellent tonic for
convalescence
and general debility, restoring health and vitality.
It
is recommended for cardiac disorders, respiratory diseases, asthma and
breathing troubles, cough, pneumonia, gastric irritation and anemia. 16
fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Draksharishtam
Draksharishtam is the
most well
known medicinal wine, a vitalizing formula which tones and augments the
digestive fire as it nourishes the blood.
With
its treasures of iron sources, it enhances immunity, strength and
complexion, while alleviating constipation. It helps treat emaciation,
anemia, insomnia, heart disorder, asthma, cough and throat disorders.
16 fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Balarishtam
While arishtams are by
nature a
superior media for treating Vata-related disorders, Balaristham is the
Vata remedy "par-excellence." This is one of Ayurveda's prime tools for
battling arthritis, rheumatism and all other auto-immune reactions.
It is recommended for
neurological disorders, back pain, numbness and pain in the
extremities. 16 fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Pippalyasavam
Pip-al-ya-sa-vam is a
remedy
formulated expressly to kindle Agni, the digestive fire. As Ayurveda
holds that most diseases result from poor digestion, this Asava
(fermented from fresh herbal juices) works effectively to promote
digestion, the foundation of good health.
Increasing
the digestive enzymes, it is excellent for malabsorption, indigestion,
loss of appetite and gas. It also helps the body combat the by-products
of poor digestion, such as hemorrhoids, sprue, anemia and some liver
disorders. 16 fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Aswagandharishtam
Although the famous
herb
Aswagandha is most widely known as a rejuvenative herb which gives
strength and vitality, this preparation brings out Aswagandha's
considerable nervine properties. It rejuvenates the entire nervous
system, nurturing, calming and clarifying.
It
is useful for neurological and mental disorders, psychosis, epilepsy,
insomnia, fainting and loss of memory. Also excellent for nerve-related
emaciation and debility 16 fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Saraswatharishtam
The main herb in this
Arishtam
is Gotu Kola, acclaimed in both the East and West for its powerful
revitalizing effect on the brain and nervous system.
Saraswati is the
Goddess of
Learning and Wisdom, and as befits its namesake this nervine tonic is
excellent for students and other "brain workers," promoting
intellectual clarity and sharpness. It is also used in treating
neuroses, psychoses, epilepsy, insomnia, stammering, memory loss and
depression. 16 fl. oz. (450 ml.)
Wholesale Orders: We offer discounts to Ayurvedic practitioners, doctors, massage therapists and retailers. Please call or email us for details. Wholesale orders are not accepted on this web site. All orders entered on this site will be processed as retail orders.
