Ayurvedic treatment for Chikungunya – arthritis

Ayurvedic treatment for Chikungunya – arthritishttp://easyayurveda.com/2009/12/09/ayurvedic-treatment-for-chikungunya-arthritis/

This article is from the above blog. Its an excellent source for anything Ayurvedic. Its also a tremendous effort to explain the various benefits of our Ayurvedic system of medicine and lifestyle. It will be an excellent site for anyone to visit to know more about Ayurvedic systems, treatments and also for good health guidance.

Chikungunya outbreak has caused a lot of panic among people. It is a viral fever that spreads by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Most of the symptoms of chikungunya and dengue have resemblance. Though there is slight difference between chikungunya ; dengue. Severe, sometimes persistent, joint pain (arthritis), as well as fever and rash are the main characteristic features of Chikungunya. But in dengue, at later stages, the platelet count depletion sets in.


Chikungunya, in the acute phase, symptoms such as headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and muscle pain are also known to occur. Several varieties of viral infections are spread through droplets discharged into the atmosphere by the cough or sneezing of infected patients. It is seldom life-threatening.


However, the most painful aspect of chikungunya is the extended period of pain and swelling in the joints following the recovery from fever. This is due to the response of ones own immune system to parts of the virus which resemble the joint. This phenomenon is called as auto immune response. While the symptoms are less severe in younger patients, the older people and those with pre-existing arthritic tendency suffer badly.

Chikungunya and other similar viral infections have become very prevalent these days and are a grave cause for concern, affecting life of hundreds and thousands. The unbearable joint pain leaves many prostrated and unable to carry on with normal day t o day activities.

Arthritis associated with Chikungunya –
Post chikungunya arthritis affecting multiple joints can leave a person debilitated for a very long period of time.


The Allopathic treatment options are largely symptomatic for mitigating pain and fever using anti-inflammatory drugs along with rest. While recovery from chikungunya is the expected outcome, convalescence can be prolonged (up to a year or more), and persistent joint pain may require analgesic (pain medication) and long-term anti-inflammatory therapy.

Ayurveda, hass a great deal to offer by way of relief from Chikungunya & other forms of post-viral arthritis. The principle of Ayurvedic treatment in such acquired infections is of immuno-modulation. The medications and therapies help to modulate the immune response of the body against viral antigens which inadvertently affect the joints. Hence, in addition to the symptomatic relief which is very quickly felt, the immuno-modulation helps to reverse the inflammatory process as well as prevent tissue damage. This results in a faster recovery and a shortened convalescent period.

Ayurvedic treatment for Chikungunya – Line of treatment:
1. Preventive medicines to improve immunity. – These medicines which can be taken to prevent the chikungunya treatment or at least reduce its severity.
2. Medicines to reduce fever and bring down muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash – that is, small red spots all over the body.
3. Medicines to relieve muscle and joint pains.
4. Rejuvenation medicines that are administered once after the disease is relieved. This is to restore body strength and immunity. These medicines give energy to the patient to get on with day to day activities after recovery.

Warning: Before trying any of these medicines, consult your doctor directly. I do not guarantee that these will work. These can be taken along with your allopathic treatment.
Please consult your Ayurveda doctor before trying any of below medicine
All the medicines that I have mentioned below are easily available in any local Ayurveda store or at shimply.com, eayur.com etc online Ayurveda shopping websites.

A. Preventive medicines and remedies against Chikungunya:
These medicines do not offer any guarantee that you will not get chikungunya. But your body will be better prepared to fight this disease.
1. Nimbadi Kashayam tablet (AVN company)-
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.

2. Trishun tablet (Zandu company) –
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.

3. Panchanimbadi Vati tablet (AVN company)
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.

Trishun with Nimbadi Kashayam tablet
OR
Trishun with Panchanimbadi vati tablet – is advised as a preventive medicine combination.
The above 2 can be continued for up to 1 month time.

B. Ayurvedic medicines to reduce Chikungunya fever:
The below medicines are targeted to reduce fever.
Amritarishta (liquid) – 15 ml, mixed with 15 ml of water, 2 times a day. This is not recommended in diabetic people.
Trishun tablet
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.
Sanjivani Vati tablet –
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.
Amrutottaram kashayam tablet –
Dose for adults – 2 tablets 2 times a day after food.
Dose for children above 7 years of age – 1 tablet 2 times a day after food.

Combinations –
Sanjivani with Trishun + Amritaristhta
Amrutottaram with Sanjivani and Trishun
They can be continued up to 4 – 6 weeks of time, based on your doctor’s advice.

C. Ayurvedic medicines and remedies to relieve pain and inflammation
R compound tablet – 2 tablets 2 – 3 times a day after food.
Shallaki capsule – 1 – 2 capsules – 1 -2 times a day after food (Excess of this may cause stomach irritation in some people)
Sallaki MR tablet – 1 – 2 tablets 1- 2 times a day after food.
Yogaraja Guggulu
Vatari Guggulu etc.

Any one or two among above can be continued for up to 2 – 4 months time, with gradual decrease in dosage, as per your Ayurvedic doctor’s advice.

D. Ayurvedic Medicines to restore energy after the fever is relieved:
Ashwagandharishta, Amrutarishta, Balarishta – any one among the above – 15 ml, mixed with 15 ml of water, 2 times a day after food. (Cannot be administered to diabetic people)
Swamala compound – 1 teaspoon 2 times a day (Cannot be administered to diabetic people)
Ashwagandha capsule, Shilajit capsule, Shatavari capsule etc.

Oils and liniments to apply externally over joints to reduce pain:
Please note that while you have fever, you cannot apply oils to the joints. But liniments can be applied to relieve pain. Liniments are oil + volatile prinicples. After application, they evaporate quickly. The below mentioned liniments are good to apply 4 – 5 times a day for 4 – 6 weeks time.
Some good liniments are –
Arnopen liniment
Arthorub liniment
Myostaal liniment
Rhukot liniment
Rumalaya liniment etc.

Oils for application –
These oils can be applied after the fever is completely relieved. These oils improve joint strength and relieve pain.
Mahanarayana taila
Kottamchukkadi taila
Mahamasha taila
Balaswagandhadi taila
Vishagarbha taila

Rejuvenative Ayurvedic medicines for Chikungunya joint care:
Especially in old people, chikungunya may cause permanent joint pain and difficulty in walking. For them, below medicines help to strengthen joints. These can be started during the fever and can be continued for up to 3 – 4 months of time, with gradual decrease in dose.
1. Ksheerabala 101 drops – 10 drops, 2 times a day after food.
2. Ksheerabala capsule -1 capsule 2 – 3 times a day after food.
3. Gandha tailam drops – 10 drops 2 times a day after food.
4. Lakshadi guggulu tablet – 2 tablets 2 -3 times a day after food.
5. Gandha tailam capsule -1 capsule 2 times a day after food.

Beware of false promises:
As you may have noticed any tablet or capsule that I have enlisted above does not cost you more than 4 – 6 rupees per piece.
Some fake Ayurvedic doctors may push you to buy costly Swarna Bhasma, Heera Bhasma for thousands of rupees to relieve this. They may or may not work, but they are not necessary.


Home remedies for chikungunya:

• A decoction or herbal tea prepared with neem powder + ginger – once or twice a day.
• Herbal tea prepared with neem powder + Ashwagandha powder + ginger
• Tulsi herbal tea

Consult your doctor before trying any home remedies or medicines.

http://easyayurveda.com/2009/12/09/ayurvedic-treatment-for-chikungunya-arthritis/

How To Improve Blood Circulation?

How To Improve Blood Circulation? 

25 Ayurveda And Yoga Tips
Article by: Dr. Mahesh Annapure M.Sc. D.N. M.D.(A.M.) http://easyayurveda.com/2016/08/01/how-to-improve-blood-circulation/

Transportation of blood from heart to the different parts of the body, then pulling it back to heart to send it to lungs to get fresh oxygen and so on, is called as blood circulation. Human body contains 1,12,000 km long blood vessels. The functions of the blood vessels are to provide the nutrients and fresh oxygen to all the cells of body and to remove unpurified blood and the wastes from body metabolism .


Blood facts:
Human body is having at about 10 Lakh Crore cells. The needs of these cells are supported by the blood. The main part of the blood is a Red Blood Corpuscles (RBCs). In every second 12 Lakh RBCs are degenerated. The life span of RBCs is of 120 days.

The formation of new RBCs occurs in the bone marrow. In the whole life of human, the bone marrow produces 100 kg of RBCs. Within the life span of 120 days, these RBCs revolves around the body cells near about 75 thousands times. This happens due to the help of the motor pump of body, we know it as a heart. Heart performs the activity to supply blood to the body cells and collect it back.

From each contraction of the heart 75 ml of blood is forced towards the body. Due to the hearts contraction and relaxation, heart beats are formed. 

We call it as a Nadi (Pulse). This practice is called as a Nadi parikshana. 

Many defects and disorders of the body are occurred by the obstructions in the blood vessels, major of it is a Blood Pressure or Heart Attack. In Charaka Sutrasthana, it is denoted as a Raktavaha srotas and explained that the roots of the Raktavaha Srotas are based in the 12 major arteries and veins near the heart.


Symptoms of obstruction in blood circulation
– Shortness of breath
– Irregular heartbeats
– Itchy hands, legs and feet
– High cholesterol and blood pressure
– Swelling of hands and feet
– Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
– Change in skin temperature like cold hands, feet and fingers
– Numbness or loss of sensation in feet, toes and hands
– Feeling lethargic even after doing small activities like climbing the stairs
– Lack of energy and stamina
– Hair fall and dandruff
– Dry skin, uneven skin tone and blemishes on the skin
– Memory loss or sluggish memory
– Feeling sleepy all the time
– Cramps and headaches


Tips to maintain proper blood circulation:

Take Hydrotherapy –

It includes warm water bath, tub bath, contrast bath (switching between the hot and cold water), steam bath, etc. The therapy of water vapours, targeted towards relaxation, causes vaso-dilatation (widening of the blood vessels) of peripheral blood vessels (arteries and veins in the feet, legs, lower abdomen, arms, neck or head) which in turn, lead to faster and smoother blood circulation.

Quit Smoking-
Smoking is primarily responsible for peripheral vascular diseases (diseases of the blood vessels located outside the heart and brain). It brings about degenerative changes within the blood vessels leading to hardening of arteries and vericose veins, heart attacks, which eventually leads to improper blood circulation.

Regular exercise-
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to enhance blood circulation. Thirty minutes of regular exercise daily can substantially reduces your risk of various cardiovascular problems. There is an increase in the pumping action of the heart along with an increase in the number of vessels and capillaries. It can take the form of any physical activity like walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, cycling, swimming etc. These exercises have a great potential to improve the blood circulation rate and maintain pulse rate.

Take healthy, fats free diet-
To live healthy, you must eat healthy by taking healthy diet. Avoid consuming excess of anything especially dairy products, hydrogenated oils etc.
Consume healthy fats such as ghee, omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) that are available in fishes.

Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Reduce the consumption of sugar and excess salts and add up more of dietary fibers. Improper diet can adversely affect the blood cholesterol levels, which in turn, can result in atherosclerotic changes (plaque build-up in the artery walls which does not allow blood to flow freely). These conditions affect the body’s normal process of blood circulation.

Tomato:
Tomato is a well-known food for blood circulation improvement. It contains lycopene, a compound that prevents plaque buildup, a hindrance to healthy blood flow.

Ginger-

Ginger contains gingeroles and zingerone, the active components that provide a whole range of benefits to the body. It prevents the absorption of cholesterol in the blood and liver. Regular consumption also prevents the clotting of blood in the body. In fact, it is much more effective than aspirin in preventing blood clot formation. Read more about ginger usage

Green Tea-
Green tea is rich in antioxidant called epigallocatechin, which improves the health of the cells that forms in the innermost lining of the blood vessels. This helps in the constriction and dilation of the vessels, enhancing the flow of blood. It reduces the formation of bad cholesterol and prevents the rise in blood pressure. Regular consumption also cuts down the risk of heart diseases.

Nuts-
Nuts like almonds and cashews provide high levels of vitamin B3, which boost the blood flow. It dilates the blood vessels, improving the circulation of blood. It also helps to lower low-density lipoprotein in the blood.

Garlic-

Garlic relaxes the blood vessels and interacts with the red blood cells, increasing the production of hydrogen sulfide. Increased production of hydrogen sulfide improves blood circulation. Consuming raw garlic reduces the accumulation of low-density lipo-protein in the blood. It also raises good cholesterol in the blood, keeping the blood pressure within normal limits. It also prevents blood platelet aggregation.

Guggulu or Guggul-
Guggul is a plant gum, contains kenotic steroid compounds called Guggulsterones, which reduces the plaque that builds the inner walls of the arteries, causing poor blood flow. It reduces the possibility of platelet aggregation, preventing blood clot formation. Read more about guggulu

Mehendi (Rosemary)-
Rosemary is one of the great herbal remedies for blood circulation improvement in the body. Fresh rosemary works best, but you can use the dried ones, its extract is taken in small quantity.

Nagfani/ Bansanjali (Hawthorne)-
Hawthorne has been used since centuries to treat heart and blood circulation problems. The berries and leaves of Hawthorne plant contain quercetin, a substance that minimizes histamine release. It is also useful for treating blood pressure problems.

Lifestyle changes-
– Reduce your coffee and tea intake or cutting down on them may be very beneficial for the body.
– Alcohol can have several detrimental effects on the body. It should be drunk only in moderation.
– Quit smoking in order to lead a healthy life. Smoking increases cholesterol levels, constricts the blood vessels and hardens the arteries.
– Avoid eating foods that contain high amounts of saturated fats. Saturated fats contribute to the buildup of cholesterol deposits or plaque in the arteries, leading to poor circulation.
– In addition, it is also required eliminate refined foods like alcohol, sugar and oily foods. Eliminating these items from your diet will help thin your blood, which will enable it to pass easily through the small blood vessels.

Drink plenty water- and juices
The blood plasma volume is the major determinant of blood pressure and the circulatory functions, plasma makes blood thinner. Dehydration can cause a reduction in the volume of blood through a reduction in the water content of the blood. This further lowers the blood circulation rate.
Make sure you drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and it also maintains body heat.

Adopt Active Lifestyle-
The sedentary and lazy lifestyle of today slows down the rate of circulation and causes various health related problems. Switch to a healthy and active lifestyle, get involved in some outdoor activities like social gathering, mass movements, enjoy festivals, carnivals, gardening, dog walking, house keeping or in some recreational sports. Get adequate amount of sleep and learn to cope up with day to day stress. Stress, which causes muscle-tensions, can lead to serious circulation problems and cardiovascular diseases.

Take Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies-
Include herbs like cayenne (a mild form of chili powder), ginger, garlic and in your diet. These herbs have favorable effects on blood circulation. Wild berries, tomatoes and rosemary are known for their effects in regulating and stabilizing blood pressure. Spicy foods also promote good circulation. When you eat spicy food, your body’s temperature is raised; therefore, it increases your blood flow and gets your heart pumping.

Massage-
Massage facilitates circulation because the pressure created by the massage technique actually moves blood through the congested areas. Massage is one of the ancient and the most effective remedies to improve blood circulation. Massage is not just a relaxation technique but something more than that useful for circulation, The release of this same pressure causes new blood to flow in. Body pain develops on account of reduced oxygen supply to the muscles due to muscle tension, The squeezing and pulling also flushes lactic acid from the muscles and improves the circulation of the lymph fluid which carries metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs, resulting in lower blood pressure and improved body function. Massage warms the body reliving the blood vessels improving blood circulation.

Yoga for improving blood circulation-
Virabhadrasana – Warrior Pose –
Warrior pose stretches the muscles of arms, shoulders, neck, legs, and groin favoring muscle contraction and relaxation. Such tone up muscles encourages circulation. Furthermore, the joints of the legs, the waist and those of spinal cord and neck get curved exactly in opposite direction, regulating the blood circulation in those joints.

Salamba Sarvangasana – Shoulder Stand –
Shoulder stand is a part of Hatha yoga, where all pressure is exerted on the neck, shoulders and back of the head. As the body remains straight from feet up to shoulder with legs at the 90- degree angle from the floor, blood flows from lower part of the body towards heart for oxygenation. Peculiar shoulder stand position improves supply of fresh blood to the brain, eyes, ears, nose and throat.

Viparita Karani- Leg’s Up Pose –
Inverted body position with leg’s up is just opposite to our normal standing or sitting posture. Gravity effect pushes impure blood from legs and pelvis towards heart and improves circulation.


Uttanpadasana with Both Legs
Vertical position of both legs stretches thigh muscles facilitating blood circulation. In this pose, you raise both legs up without the support of a wall.

Shavasana- Corpse pose –
Shavasana is one of the best relaxing poses, where a body looks like a dead body. Whenever a body is in action, it requires more oxygen, which is gained through increasing circulation. Increased circulation favors increase in respiration.

Deep Breathing
– While breathing in, the diaphragm, a major respiratory muscle is pulled down. This minimizes the chest pressure and increases abdominal pressure. An increased abdominal pressure compresses the abdominal veins, a type of blood vessels and pushes blood upward in chest and heart.
– While breathing out, the diaphragm reverts back in its normal position, which minimizes abdominal pressure. Reduced abdominal pressure drains blood from both legs toward abdomen and improves venous return to the heart.


Kapalbhati -Skull Shining Breath –
Kapalbhati, a process of fast exhalation and jerky inhalation is another type of breathing useful in maintaining a flow of blood. Peculiar exhalation and inhalation contracts and relax the abdominal muscles and diaphragm.
Unlike in deep breathing, during exhalation, blood is pushed from an abdomen upward in the heart. While in inhalation, the blood from legs drain into abdomen and go to the heart in next round.
Dr. Mahesh Annapure M.Sc. D.N. M.D.(A.M.)

7 Pressure points to relieve pains

7 Pressure points to relieve pains

1. He Gu.



Spot the highest point in your muscle at which your index finger and thumb are adjoined. Now, massage it for four to five seconds. This technique will help you out in relieving facial pain, toothaches, headaches, neck pain and stress.


2. Jian Jing




Massaging the point with your middle finger and thumb will make you feel better and assist you with bodily aches as well as stress.


3. Tai Chong.



Applying pressure at this point will help you to treat a number of issues such as anxiety, limb pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps, insomnia, stress and lower back pain.

4. Feng Chi.



Apply some pressure with your thumb in following the mastoid (ear) bone down where skull attaches to the neck muscle.


5. Zu San Li.



This point is a wonder spot helping you in relieving fatigue, stress, gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting and nausea.


6. Shen Men (The Spirit Gate).



According to experts, this is one of the most stresss relieving points in human body.

7. Stomach.



Freeing the diaphragm and chest, this point improves the entire breathing process.

Ancient Herbs and Spices for Pain relief

Ancient Herbs and Spices for Pain relief

Neem & Clove Oil for Tooth Ache



It benefits in dental and oral care by inhibiting bacteria that cause tooth decay. Neem can also fight infectious mutans and dental cavities. Clove and clove oil is known to have both analgesic and antibacterial properties, and like neem, it can be help in curbing a toothache caused by bacteria. Neem leaves can be chewed while clove oil should be applied. You can also gargle with neem oil for better results.

Fennel for Stomach Cramps



Fennel (saunf) exhibits antibacterial and antiviral activities. It acts as a carminative – a herb or preparation which is known to prevent the formation of gas. 

It is also has stomachic reducing properties which means that it helps in toning the stomach and improves digestive functions. 

Applying fennel oil has been reported to relieve menstrual cramps. It is an excellent source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous and zinc. It is also hepato-protective, has the ability to prevent damage to the liver. It can be powdered and mixed with soda bicarbonate, water and a pinch of black salt. This creates a synergistic effect.

Coriander for Joint & Muscle Pain



Coriander (dhaniya) has been known as an analgesic, carminative, digestive, depurative (detoxifying), anti-rheumatic (joint pains) and antispasmodic (muscle spasms) agent. It can be used externally to treat ulcers and rheumatism (joint related ailments).

Ginger for Inflammation and Headache



Ginger is a popular anti-nausea and carminative ingredient. It has been used by people to cure motion sickness. It fights bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Ginger oil acts an anti-inflammatory for arthritis and headaches. In simple terms, inflammation refers to swelling. It can be rubbed on the effected area. Its diaphoretic effect is known to keep your body warm.

Hing (Asafoetida) for Indigestion



It reduces the growth of indigenous micro flora in the gut and also helps in relieving flatulence. It is an antispasmodic which means that it relieves the spasm by counteracting the effects of a hormone produced by the nerves called neurohormone acetylcholine. By doing so, the secretion of stomach acids and digestive enzymes is reduced and regulated. Take a pinch of hing, mix it in a spoonful of lukewarm water and rub it on your stomach.

Green Cardamom



Cardamom is known to enhance the effectiveness of carminative (that combat flatulence) drugs. It is officially recognized in British and US pharmacopoeias and is used as an aromatic stimulant, carminative and flavoring agent. 

Chewing cardamom helps in regulating digestive fucntions.

Simple Natural Relief for Knee Joint Pains

Simple Natural Relief for Knee Joint Pains and All General Minor Body Aches with a Leaf



In rural Andhra Pradesh, people collect the leaves of the Vavili plant which grow like a shrub. If you boil it in hot water, the liquid has pain relieving properties. The extract is often used while giving bath to women who have under gone child delivery so that she will get relief from the general body aches she had during the delivery time. It is also used for those suffering from osteoarthritis to relieve joint pain.

Other names for this Ayurvedic herb are Nirgundi, or Vitex Negundo.

Actually I have seen in the case of moderate and severe osteoarthritis cases with 1) swelling, pain, and redness of the knee joint, 2) hot to the touch without signs of infection, 3) inability to flex the joint and walk, that such people have received lots of relief from this simple medicine.

In one case a joint specialist in a corporate hospital suggested in this case some pain relieving drugs and said that if the response is not there one has to go for joint replacement. But the natural leaves of Vavili Trifoliate helped in reducing the swelling as well as the pain, and the patient is now able to walk better. 2 or 3 leaves have to be taken orally after washing them, and chewed/swallowed. The leaves are a little bitter to taste, but it is a great natural medicine.

People from the forest agriculture research centres often grow these plants, as they know that it is having medicinal value and there is some research to extract the chemical that is giving the pain relief results.

If you want to grow the plant yourself, small branches obliquely cut from the plant can be grown and it easily grows very quickly. It is not dangerous to swallow and can be tested by first eating one part of the leaf and see if you get any allergic symptoms. You can chew and swallow them daily and you will see the results in a weeks time.

http://www.remedyspot.com/simple-natural-relief-knee-joint-pains-general-minor-body-aches-leaf/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=nirgundi19

Nirgundi – Vitex negundo Uses, Dose, Side Effects, Research


Nirgundi – Vitex negundo is a very good muscle relaxant, pain relieving, anti mosquito, anti anxiety, anti asthma and so on, herb of Ayurveda. There are very less herbs as multi-talented and as versatile as Nirgundi is. Used both for external application in the form of paste / oil, and also for oral administration in the form of powder, leaf juice extract or water decoction.




Botanical Name- Vitex Negundo Linn.
Family- VERBINACEAE (Nirgundi Kula)
Hindi Name- Sambhalu, mewri, Nisinda, Sawbhalu
Telugu Name- indhuvara; Vavili; Nalla-vavili; Tella-vavili, Lekkali
Tamil Name-Chinduvaram; Nirnochchi; Nochchi; Notchi; Vellai-nochchi
Bengali Name- Nirgundi; Nishinda; Samalu
English – Five Leaved Chaste
Filipino – Lagundi
Assamese – Pochotia
Chinese name – Huang jing
Kannada name – Bile-nekki, Lakki soppu, Lakki gida, Lekki gida
Punjabi name – Banna; Marwan; Maura; Mawa; Swanjan Torbanna



Sanskrit Synonyms
Nirgundi – Nirgudati Shareeram rakshati rogebhyaha – which protects body from diseases
Sindhuvara – Sindu shotham vaarayati it sinduvaraha – which helps to relieve inflammation
Shephalika, Suvaha, Sinduka, Sinduvara, Surasa, Shvetapushpa (white coloured flower), Nilamanjari, Vanaja, Hutakeshi


Classical Categorization
Charaka –
Vishaghna — anti poisonous group of herbs
Krimighna – anti worm group of herbs
Susruta and Vagbhata – Surasadi


Different Varieties of Nirgundi (Sambhalu) –
About six species of Vitex genus were studied for phytochemical profile. Nearly same constituents were present in all species. (Krishna Rao & Jean, 1996)

Vitex Negundo chemical Constituents
Phenol, Dulcitol, Alkaloid-Vitricine, B-sitosterol, Camphene, a- And B- Pinenes, Angoside, Acunbin, Casticin, Artemetin, Orientin etc.
(Reference: Illustrated Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. II, by Dr JLN Shastry)

Nirgundi – Vitex negundo – medicinal qualities:
Rasa (taste) – Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)
Guna (qualities) – Laghu (lightness), Rooksha (dryness)
Vipaka – Katu – undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion
Veerya -Ushna – hot potency
Effect on Tridosha – Balances Vata and Kapha.

Nirgundi – Part used- Leaf, root, seeds
Five leaved chaste Dose
Leaf juice 10-20 ml,
Root bark powder 3-6 g,
Seed powder 3-6 g, in divided doses per day, is the adult dose.



Vitex negundo uses:
Krumi – useful in intestinal worm infestation
Kushta – useful in skin diseases, eczema, ring worm
Rujapaha – relieves muscle and arthritis related pain
Pleeha – useful in spleen disorder
Gulma – useful in abdominal tumor
Aruchi – useful in anorexia
Medhya – improves intelligence, relieves anxiety
Netrahita, Chakshushya – good for eyes,
Deepani – carminative
Keshya – improves hair quality
Vishapaha — anti toxic, anti poisonous
Shulahara – useful in abdominal colic, anti spasmoidic
Amahara – useful in Ama (a product of altered digestion and metabolism)
Medohara – useful against cholesterol
Vranahara – heals wounds faster
Vranakurmi here – cleanses wounds
Pratishyaya – useful in running nose
Shwasahara – useful in asthma, bronchitis
Kasahara – useful in cold, cough
Smrutida – improves memory
Its fumes are useful in getting rid of mosquitoes.

External application:
The leave is made into paste, heated a little and applied externally to relieve headache, orchitis (swelling in testicles), rheumatoid and osteo arthritis.
Water decoction of Nirgundi is used for vaginal douche to relieve local inflammation
Water decoction is used for mouth gargling to relieve throat pain and oral ulcers.
The dry leaves are burnt and fumes are inhaled to relieve headache and running nose.
Its oil is prepared with sesame oil and used in wound healing and grey hairs.

Vitex negundo – research:
Larvicidal activity against mosquito larvae
Hepato-protective activity of ethanolic activity
Anitpyretic activity of alcoholic extractAnti fungal activityAnxiolytic activity


Ayurvedic medicines with Vitex negundo –
Saraswatarishta, Manasamitra vatakam – Nirgundi being anxiolytic and medhya (improving intelligence), helps these medicines to fight anxiety and depression. Also, it also relieves pain. Hence, useful in fibro-myalgia, associated with depression.
Dashamool Taila – useful in vascular headache, migraine
Mahavat Vidhwans Ras – useful in neuralgia, aches and pains
Anthrakutaram gulika – useful in abdominal colic, constipation, bloating

Magnesium, NOT Calcium, Is The Key To Healthy Bones

Magnesium, NOT Calcium, Is The Key To Healthy Bones




The belief that calcium is the holy grail of what builds strong bones is absolutely ingrained in our society, but has no basis in reality–calcium is but ONE of the many minerals your body needs for building strong bones. Dietary intake of magnesium, not necessarily calcium, may be the key to developing healthy bones during childhood, according to new research presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) annual meeting in the USA.

Take a Second Peek At Calcium Claims

The mainstream engine has been promoting the use of calcium to prevent weak bones for decades. Age-old myths that calcium supplementation builds strong bones and teeth are reinforced in almost institution. But how effective is calcium supplementation?

A 2004 study showed that people with excess calcium in their coronary artery and who take statins have a 17-fold higher risk of heart attacks than do those with lower arterial calcium levels; researchers concluded that the two most definitive indicators of heart attack were LDL levels and calcium build-up.

A 2007 study showed that calcium from dietary sources has more favorable effects on bone health than calcium from supplements in postmenopausal women (Am J Clin Nutr 2007).


A 2008 study found calcium supplements are associated with a greater number of heart attacks in postmenopausal women (BMJ 2008)

A 2010 meta-analysis showed calcium supplements (without coadministered vitamin D) are associated with increased risk for heart attack (BMJ 2010)

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), food will always be the best source of calcium: “People who get the recommended amount of calcium from foods do not need to take a calcium supplement. These individuals still may need to take a vitamin D supplement. Getting too much calcium from supplements may increase the risk of kidney stones and other health problems.”

“Calcium supplements have been widely embraced by doctors and the public, on the grounds that they are a natural and therefore safe way of preventing osteoporotic fractures,” said the researchers, led by Professor Sabine Rohrmann, from Zurich University’s institute of social and preventative medicine.

“It is now becoming clear that taking this micronutrient in one or two daily [doses] is not natural, in that it does not reproduce the same metabolic effects as calcium in food,” they added.

Most supplements on the supplement market today contain calcium carbonate which is an inferior form of calcium and manufacturers attach a simple chelating agent like citric acid to make it more absorbable, however the end product is inferior to other calcium supplements such as calcium orotate, which is the only known form of calcium which can effectively penetrate the membranes of cells.

Another fact most people are unaware of is the myth promoted by the dairy industry that consuming pasteurized dairy products such as milk or cheese increases calcium levels. This is totally false. 

The pasteurization process only creates calcium carbonate, which has absolutely no way of entering the cells without a chelating agent. So what the body does is pull the calcium from the bones and other tissues in order to buffer the calcium carbonate in the blood. This process ACTUALLY CAUSES OSTEOPOROSIS. Milk definitively does not do a body good if it’s pasteurized.

Magnesium and Increasing Awareness

The new data from Professor Steven Abrams and his colleagues at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston finds that intake and absorption of magnesium during childhood are key predictors of total bone mineral content and bone density – while dietary calcium intake was not significantly associated with such measures.

“Dietary magnesium intake may be an important, relatively unrecognised, factor in bone mineral accretion in children,” the researchers revealed.

“Lots of nutrients are key for children to have healthy bones. One of these appears to be magnesium,” said Abrams. “Calcium is important, but, except for those children and adolescents with very low intakes, may not be more important than magnesium.”

The researchers noted that parents have been long advised to ensure their child has a good intake of calcium in order to help build strong and healthy bones. However, the importance of other minerals essential for bone health, such as magnesium, have not been so well promoted.

Abrams and his team suggested that it may soon be the case that parents are urged to ensure their children also consume enough magnesium.

Greater magnesium intake is significantly related to higher bone mineral density (BMD) in men and women. There is an approximate 2 percent increase in whole-body BMD for every 100 milligram per day increase in magnesium.

Osteoporotic fractures are a significant health problem in aging adults, Dr. Kathryn M. Ryder, of the University of Tennessee, Memphis, and colleagues note in their report. Given the high prevalence of low BMD and fracture, small improvements in BMD may have a large public health effect.

Magnesium is a “lesser-studied” component of bone that may play a role in calcium metabolism and bone strength, they add.

Supplementing With Magnesium

For the majority of human history, the ratio of calcium to magnesium in the diet was 1:1, a ratio that’s considered optimal. A ratio that’s between 1:1 and 2:1 is adequate (for example, 800 mg of calcium to 400 mg of magnesium). Unfortunately, today’s diets contain an average of 10 times more calcium than magnesium.

Magnesium comes in many forms. Magnesium oxide or chloride is fine, as is chelated magnesium. Capsules usually contain 250-500 mg of magnesium. You can also use a calcium/magnesium supplement. Experiment with levels. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for magnesium is 350-400 mg per day, although for optimal levels, you may need as much as twice that amount.

It’s best to take your magnesium in divided doses throughout the day. You can take it either on an empty stomach or with meals. You can also add Epsom salts to your baths–Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate. It’s absorbed through the skin and will help replenish magnesium stores. This “treatment” can easily include a relaxing bath with a good book.


Only one percent of the body’s magnesium is in the blood, and the body will take it from bones and tissues if that level drops. That means that a blood test could easily show a normal reading, even when the rest of the body is very deficient.

The best sources of magnesium will always be food. Dietary sources of magnesium include green leafy vegetables. Cacao, seeds, and nuts of any kind are among the highest food sources in magnesium.

Marco Torres is a research specialist, writer and consumer advocate for healthy lifestyles. He holds degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science and is a professional speaker on topics such as disease prevention, environmental toxins and health policy.

Top 10 High Magnesium Foods You Can't Miss

Magnesium is an essential mineral required by the body for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, keeping a healthy immune system, maintaining heart rhythm, and building strong bones. Magnesium is also involved in at least 300 biochemical reactions in the body. 

A deficiency in magnesium can lead to muscle spasms, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety disorders, migraines, osteoporosis, and cerebral infarction. Conversely, consuming too much magnesium typically causes diarrhea as the body attempts to excrete the excess. 

High magnesium foods include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocados, yogurt, bananas, dried fruit, dark chocolate, and more. The current daily value (DV) for magnesium is 400mg.Below is a list of high magnesium foods, for more, see the extended lists of high magnesium foods by nutrient density, magnesium rich foods,vegetables high in magnesium, and fruits high in magnesium.

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#1: Dark Leafy Greens (Raw Spinach)

Magnesium in 100g	1 Cup Raw (30g)	1 Cup Cooked (180g)
79mg (20% DV)	24mg (6% DV)	157mg (39% DV)

Other Greens High in Magnesium (%DV per cup cooked):Swiss Chard (38%), Kale (19%), Collard Greens (13%), and Turnip Greens (11%). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#2: Nuts and Seeds (Squash and Pumpkin Seeds)

Magnesium in 100g	1/2 Cup (59g)	1 Ounce (28g)
534mg (134% DV)	325mg (81% DV)	150mg (37% DV)

Other Nuts and Seeds High in Magnesium (%DV per 1/2 cup): Sesame Seeds (63%), Brazil Nuts (63%), Almonds (48%), Cashews (44% DV), Pine nuts (43%), Mixed Nuts (39%), and Peanuts (31%), Pecans (17%), Walnuts (16%).Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#3: Fish (Mackerel)

Magnesium in 100g	Per 3oz Fillet (85g)
97mg (24% DV)	82mg (21% DV)

Other Fish High in Magnesium (%DV per 3oz fillet (85g)):Pollock (18% DV), Turbot (14% DV), Tuna (14% DV), and most other fish at an average of 8% DV. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#4: Beans and Lentils (Soy Beans)

Magnesium in 100g	1 Cup Cooked (172g)
86mg (22% DV)	148mg (37% DV)

Other Beans and Lentils High in Magnesium (%DV per cup cooked): White Beans (28%), French Beans (25%), Black-eyed Peas (23%), Kidney Beans (21%), Chickpeas (Garbanzo) (20%), Lentils (18%), Pinto Beans (16%). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#5: Whole Grains (Brown Rice)

Magnesium in 100g	1 Cup Cooked (195g)
44mg (11% DV)	86mg (21% DV)

Other Whole Grains High in Magnesium (%DV per cup cooked): Quinoa (30%), Millet (19%), Bulgur (15%), Buckwheat (13%), Wild Rice (13%), Whole Wheat Pasta (11%), Barley (9%), Oats (7%). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#6: Avocados

Magnesium in 100g	1 Avocado (201g)	1/2 Cup Pureed (115g)
29mg (7% DV)	58mg (15% DV)	33mg (9% DV)

An average avocado provides 322 calories, half a cup pureed contains 184 calories. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#7: Low-Fat Dairy (Plain Non Fat Yogurt)

Magnesium in 100g	1 Cup (245g)
19mg (5% DV)	47mg (12% DV)

Other Dairy Foods High in Magnesium: 1 cup (246g) of 2% fat milk provides 10% DV. A 1 ounce (28g or 2 cubic inches) slice of swiss cheese provides 3% DV. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#8: Bananas

Magnesium in 100g	1 Medium (118g)	1 Cup Slices (150g)
27mg (7% DV)	32mg (8% DV)	41mg (10% DV)

Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#9: Dried Fruit (Figs)

Magnesium in 100g	1/2 Cup (75g)	1 Fig (8g)
68mg (17% DV)	51mg (13% DV)	5mg (1% DV)

Other Dried Fruit High in Magnesium (%DV per 1/2 cup):Prunes (11%), Apricots (10%), Dates (8%), and Raisins (7%). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#10: Dark Chocolate

Magnesium in 100g	1 Square (29g)	1 Cup Grated (132g)
327mg (82% DV)	95mg (24% DV)	432mg (108% DV)

1 square of dark chocolate provides 145 calories. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

How to Remineralize Teeth Naturally & Reverse Tooth Decay

How to Remineralize Teeth Naturally & Reverse Tooth Decay

http://wellnessmama.com/3650/remineralize-teeth/

• Do you and your kids brush and floss regularly and limit sugar and still get cavities?
• Have any of your kids needed to have braces?
• Has your child under 6 had signs of tooth decay?
• Ever wish you could reverse those things?

If you are like me, you were raised with the notion (likely told by your dentist) that sugar and bad genes cause tooth decay and that if you were getting tooth decay as a child, you needed to cut back on sugar. You likely also believe that genetics determine tooth spacing and that your genetics might have doomed you to braces…

I believed all that stuff too… but as it turns out, there is more to the story!

What Really Causes Tooth Decay?

There is a lot of evidence showing that diet had a tremendous impact on oral health (even more so than brushing in some cases) and that there had even been cases of cavities reversing.

As I thought about this, it made sense…

Why would bones and other tissue be able to heal and regenerate, but not teeth?

How did other populations throughout the world have great oral health, no cavities and no need for braces when they didn’t even have access to modern dentistry?

As Dr. Weston A. Price (a dentist) found and detailed in Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, there were cultures throughout the world who had perfect teeth despite no access to dentists or modern toothpaste, while similar cultures with different diets had very high rates of tooth decay.

He found examples of cultures with similar genetic backgrounds with some living in primitive type societies and eating primitive type diets and others who ate a modernized diet. He found that many primitive cultures were able to completely avoid tooth decay and the many oral health problems we struggle with today.

The image on the left shows a stark example of this: the woman in the top right ate a primitive, whole-food, high-fat diet while the other women ate more modernized diet that contained grains and agricultural foods.

Price hypothesized that several dietary factors contributed to this difference in oral health.

Sir (Dr.) Edward Mellanby (he discovered Vitamin D) and his lovely wife Dr. May Mellanby were also influential in discovering the roles of nutrients in oral health. These two contributed much research in the areas of bone and tooth health and mineral absorption.

In fact, it was Edward who discovered that Vitamin D deficiency caused rickets. They also discovered that tooth structure is determined during a child’s growth, and that poorly formed teeth are more likely to decay (pretty logical).

The Doctors’ Conclusion: Diet Affects Oral Health
These doctors all reached the same conclusion after years of research, mainly that tooth structure and health is largely determined by diet, especially three main factors:

• The presence of enough minerals in the diet.
• The presence of enough fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) in the diet.
• How bio-available these nutrients are and how well the body is absorbing them. 

They found that this is largely influenced by the presence of Phytic Acid in the diet and how much sugar is consumed.

What is Phytic Acid?

Phytic acid is a molecule of phosphorus tightly bound with other molecules to form a type of phosphorus that is not easily absorbed by humans. From the Weston A. Price Foundation:

Phytic acid is the principal storage form of phosphorus in many plant tissues, especially the bran portion of grains and other seeds. It contains the mineral phosphorus tightly bound in a snowflake-like molecule. In humans and animals with one stomach, the phosphorus is not readily bioavailable. In addition to blocking phosphorus availability, the “arms” of the phytic acid molecule readily bind with other minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc, making them unavailable as well. In this form, the compound is referred to as phytate.

Phytic acid is found in grains, nuts, seeds and legumes and in much smaller amounts in some fruits and vegetables. The body naturally converts phytic acid into phytates, which are un-absorbable and take calcium from the body. Those who consume high amounts of phytic acid will lose calcium and absorb other minerals at lower rates.

Modern growing practices, including the use of high phosphorus fertilizer, mean a higher phytic acid content in many foods. Seeds, nuts, bran, oatmeal, and soybeans are especially high in phytic acid, and these foods are present in abundance in modern diet.

Check out this article about phytic acid for a comprehensive list of phytic acid content in foods.
Phytic Acid’s Effect on Bone and Tooth Health

People who consume large amounts of phytic acid (most Americans) in the form of grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes have higher rates of tooth decay, mineral deficiencies and osteoporosis.

Over the long term, when the diet lacks minerals or contains high levels of phytates or both, the metabolism goes down, and the body goes into mineral-starvation mode. 

The body then sets itself up to use as little of these minerals as possible. Adults may get by for decades on a high-phytate diet, but growing children run into severe problems. 

In a phytate-rich diet, their bodies will suffer from the lack of calcium and phosphorus with poor bone growth, short stature, rickets, narrow jaws and tooth decay; and for the lack of zinc and iron with anemia and mental retardation.

Just as lack of Vitamin D and poor calcium absorption can cause malformation of the bones of the legs (as in the case of Rickets), it can cause the jawbone to form poorly, resulting in spacing problems for the teeth and braces for the child.

Sadly, the most commonly eaten diet in America these days is high in grains, sugars, and vegetable oils, and low in animal fats and fat soluble vitamins- the exact opposite of what the Drs. Mellanby found to be helpful for optimal bone health and the prevention of tooth decay.

The good news is that teeth (and bones) are able to heal themselves in a process called remineralization. Basically, specialized cells in the center of the tooth are able to regenerate dentin, the layer of tooth just under the enamel, and the enamel can then properly remineralize from the outside. This same process happens in bones when phytic acid is removed from the diet and minerals/fat soluble vitamins are added.

To prove this theory, the Drs. Mellanby did a study on children with existing cavities and reported their findings in the British Medical Journal. 

The children were put into three groups:
Group One: Regular diet plus oatmeal (which is high in phytic acid)
Group Two: Regular diet plus vitamin D
Group Three: Diet low in phytic acid plus vitamin D.

This is what they found:



The group consuming phytic acid with no supplemental vitamin D continued to get cavities with little to no healing.

The group that just supplemented Vitamin D showed some healing, but also got some new cavities.

The group consuming no phytic acid and supplementing Vitamin D showed very few new cavities and actually had many existing cavities heal!

This article at Whole Health Source explains more.

When I brought this information up in health circles, it would usually spark a lot of debate and some strong comments from dentists or dental health professionals. Most would admit, after a time, that the enamel of teeth could regenerate but that once a cavity was through the dentin (the layer under the enamel), it was impossible for it to heal without dental intervention.

In my own life and in further reading, I’ve found that this isn’t the case either. As this article elaborates:

Fortunately, a decaying or broken tooth has the ability to heal itself. Pulp contains cells called odontoblasts, which form new dentin if the diet is good. Here’s what Dr. Edward Mellanby had to say about his wife’s research on the subject. This is taken from Nutrition and Disease:

Since the days of John Hunter it has been known that when the enamel and dentine are injured by attrition or caries, teeth do not remain passive but respond to the injury by producing a reaction of the odontoblasts in the dental pulp in an area generally corresponding to the damaged tissue and resulting in a laying down of what is known as secondary dentine. 

In 1922 M. Mellanby proceeded to investigate this phenomenon under varying nutritional conditions and found that she could control the secondary dentine laid down in the teeth of animals as a reaction to attrition both in quality and quantity, independently of the original structure of the tooth. 

Thus, when a diet of high calcifying qualities, ie., one rich in vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus was given to the dogs during the period of attrition, the new secondary dentine laid down was abundant and well formed whether the original structure of the teeth was good or bad. 

On the other hand, a diet rich in cereals and poor in vitamin D resulted in the production of secondary dentine either small in amount or poorly calcified, and this happened even if the primary dentine was well formed.

To be fair, most dentists probably don’t see many patients who are eating a specific diet to improve their oral health, and most of the studies and research they read is probably done on people eating a somewhat average diet (high in phytic acid and low in Vitamin D), so it is very logical that they wouldn’t think that teeth could heal. It certainly isn’t common, but with very specific supplements and a very careful nutritional program, it is certainly possible!

Halt and Reverse Tooth Decay?

To recap, the things that Drs. Mellanby and Dr. Price found to prevent and reverse tooth and bone problems are:

• The presence of enough minerals in the diet.
• The presence of enough fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) in the diet.
• How bio-available these nutrients are and how well the body is absorbing them. They found that this is largely influenced by the presence of Phytic Acid in the diet.

What does this mean practically in the diet? It is not possible or necessary to eliminate Phytic acid from the diet. What should be considered is taking care to minimize the foods that contain the highest amounts.

Some preparations like soaking and fermenting can reduce the phytic acid content and should be practiced if the foods are going to be consumed, but in many cases, it is better to avoid these foods completely.

Nuts, for instance, have a high phytic acid content which can be greatly reduced by soaking the nuts in salt or lemon water overnight and then rinsing and dehydrating in the oven (the same can be done with beans). While this step is time consuming, it is feasible with things like nuts or beans, but much more intensive with wheat (which contains more phytic acid!)

Grains especially are better soaked, sprouted and fermented, if consumed at all, but this process does not completely eliminate the other harmful properties of grains. 

Avoiding the most common food sources of phytic acid can also help:



You might notice that meats, eggs, vegetables, and healthy fats are not on this list of high phytic acid foods. As I’ve mentioned before, these foods contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals are are more nutrient dense anyway.

If foods high in phytic acid are going to be eaten, check out this article from the Weston A. Price Foundation on how to sprout, ferment, and soak them to make them less harmful.

There is also a great book called Cure Tooth Decay: Heal and Prevent Cavities with Nutrition by Rami Nagel that explains in great detail the connection between phytic acid and tooth/bone health and practical steps to reverse it.

How I Remineralized My Teeth

In early 2010, my regular dental check-up revealed that I had some soft spots and a lot of plaque on my teeth. I also had one “official” cavity, though it wasn’t bad, and while they suggested getting it filled soon, it wasn’t a huge rush. They did warn me that I had the beginning stages of gingivitis in several places and had a lot of plaque.(It took them about 30-40 minutes to scrape and clean my teeth, which I thought was normal) They took x-rays, so I have picture evidence of my teeth at this time.

I had every intention of getting the cavity filled and continuing with regular dentist appointments, but then life happened and I didn’t get around to scheduling an appointment for months. By the time I finally had time to schedule an appointment, I had seen some interesting info in books about the ability of teeth to heal, so I decided to hold off.

I did more research, read the book Cure Tooth Decay and read accounts of other people reversing dental damage, so I decided to give it a try. I took advice from all the research I had done and figured out a specific diet and supplement regimen that I was going to use to try to heal my teeth.

I followed the regimen for a few months, and noticed that my teeth were whiter and much less sensitive to cold. This was big news to me as I used to have such sensitive teeth that drinking too cold of a drink could literally almost bring me to tears. I also found out about this time that I was expecting a baby (p.s. this diet promotes fertility too!) and decided to continue on the regimen for the pregnancy, as all of the things I was doing were also supportive of healthy pregnancy.

It was fall of 2011 before I finally got around to making it back to the dentist (I know, I know… every six months…) and I didn’t mention a thing about the cavities and soft spots that needed to be fixed… and neither did the dentist!

It also only took them about 5 minutes to clean and scrape my teeth. I thought she was still checking them and she was done! The hygienist told me that my teeth and gums looked great, and asked if I had started using fluoride or fluoride toothpaste (my chart made it very clear that I was anti-fluoride). I told her no but that I had been trying to make sure I was taking better care of my teeth lately (very true!).

When the dentist checked my teeth, he didn’t mention any problem areas either and remarked that my gums looked great! On a random note, I heard him telling another patient that cutting back on the sugar and starches was a good idea since “without starches, cavities can not form, since they feed on sugar and starches.” Newfound respect for my dentist!

So what did I do?

Diet to Help Heal Cavities and Improve Oral Health
I drastically cut foods that contained phytic acid. I already wasn’t eating grains or beans, but I also cut or limited nuts.

Limited foods containing even natural sugars or starches– I limited fruit and even starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes and focused on mineral rich vegetables, bone broths, meats, and healthy fats.
Ate a LOT of healthy fats. I added extra of coconut oil to my diet each day, and used only pastured, cultured butter.

I made an effort to consume a lot of homemade bone broth for its added minerals.

To recap: No grains, beans or nuts and limited fruits and starches. Lots of vegetables, protein, healthy fats and bone broth.

Supplements to Help Heal Cavities and Improve Oral Health

To help the body remineralize cavities, it is sometimes necessary to increase mineral levels with supplements. While diet alone might be enough, many foods are depleted of nutrients from being grown in nutrient depleted soil, so supplements help fill the gaps. These are the supplements I typically recommend for improved oral health and dental healing:

Fermented Cod Liver Oil and Butter Blend– Green Pastures makes this as a Butter Oil/Fermented Cod Liver Oil blend. I prefer the combination in capsules or there is a liquid version (tastes terrible). This is one of the main supplements recommended by Dr. Price from his research. FCLO has become controversial recently, but it is the supplement I used to reverse my tooth problems and the one I would still use if I needed to do this again.

Vitamin D– This was the other main supplement that Dr. Price and the Drs. Mellanby found was extremely supportive of dental healing. In the study they did, cavities healed even when diet wasn’t changed if Vitamin D was optimized and the best healing occurred when diet was optimized and Vitamin D was added.

Coconut Oil– I added a couple tablespoons of coconut oil to a smoothie or melted in tea each day. We get ours online here, but you can find it many places…. just look for organic, virgin and unrefined coconut oil. I also found that I could add healthy fats like coconut oil and butter to coffee or tea and used healthy fats like tallow, ghee and butter in cooking.

Other supplements– I also took Magnesium, Gelatin and Vitamin C daily, though these aren’t as vital to tooth healing.

Other Factors

• I brushed with homemade remineralizing toothpaste daily and while I was actively trying to heal teeth, I swished with both calcium and magnesium powders dissolved in water daily to help provide minerals and to keep the mouth alkaline.
• I also added Ora Wellness Brushing Blend to my regimen and use their (gentler) toothbrush daily.
• I brushed with activated charcoal every couple of days to help pull toxins from the mouth (more on that soon!)
• I also practiced oil pulling daily to help support tooth and gum health.

Right now, my husband is trying the whole regimen to reverse a cavity he has, so I’ll keep you updated on his progress (hoping I might be able to get the x-rays from the dentist for proof when the cavity is gone… UPDATE: we are both cavity free and I’ve gotten a lot of emails from readers with cavity free teeth as well. Here is one of my favorites:

Hey Katie-

I just want to say thank you and share a healing success story thanks to your encouragement!

I am 30 and last year the dentist told me I had my first cavity – it was not going to heal, he said it was too far advanced and not possible. I told him I didn’t want to deal with it because I was diagnosed with stage 4 carcinoid cancer and had recently had surgery to cut out a tumor. The thought of cutting something else out of my body when I was working so hard to heal my body didn’t make sense to me. So I found your site, read your tips, made homemade remineralizing toothpaste, ate a lot of bone broth and good butter, cut down on phytic acid, etc.

I went back to the dentist 6 months later and he was shocked that the cavity was gone. He wanted me to tell him everything I had done. I felt so good!

-Catherine D. from Virginiahttp://wellnessmama.com/3650/remineralize-teeth/