Tag Archives: Ayurvedic

Get Rid of Obesity with Ayurveda

Obesity

Obesity is a problem that has engulfed our society in the recent years. According to recent reports published by WHO1, 2016 witnessed an upsurge in the number of overweight people. It stated that more than 1.9 billion people were overweight and out of these, 650 million were obese. People are putting in consistent efforts to resolve this issue and have turned to Ayurveda for respite. Ayurveda and its principles give an impetus to the body to stay toned and certain ayurvedic herbs are fruitful in getting rid of the body fat as well, thus mitigating the risk of excess weight gain or acute obesity.

What is Body Fat and How it Causes Weight Gain or Acute Obesity?

Triglycerides, cholesterol and fatty acids are collectively known as body fat. Body fat is stored in a loose connective tissue that is composed of adipocytes. Another name for these tissues is the Adipose tissue. These tissues store energy in the form of fat deposits. These are specially layered under the skin or coating the internal organs of the body. Adipose tissue has two constituent tissues, the white adipose tissue, and the brown adipose tissue. White adipose functions as a reservoir of energy, producing various hormones and cytokines that monitor the metabolic activities of the body whereas the brown adipose tissue converts food into heat energy. The equilibrium between these two tissues determines the amount of fat in the body. However, an extreme imbalance between these two tissues or between the consumption of food and the outgoing of energy can further give birth to health issues such as obesity.

There are specific Ayurvedic elements that have the ability to get rid of body fat. Triphala, Pipul, and Honey cut down on fat deposits and are a genuine help to obese people. Triphala encourages the secretion of cholecystokinin in the body which relays messages to the brain signaling that the stomach is full. This automatically diminishes the food intake resulting in weight loss. Pippali, on the other hand, burns the fatty acids accumulating in the body, thus inhibiting weight gain.

Ayurveda’s best-fit resources to restrain such detestable body fat

The unrivaled remedies of Ayurveda provide the most appropriate solutions to slim down cumbersome body flabs. A few of the Ayurvedic constituents which have multipurpose utilities, one of them being decreasing fat accumulation in the body, are mentioned below

Triphala

The concordant mixture of Amlaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki aids weight loss. Triphala is endowed with anti-inflammatory properties along with vitamin C, polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids and saponins, augmented with essential plant compounds. These compounds act as valuable constraints of body weight.

Triphala is present in Livonia along with Kalmegh, one of the products of Branolia Chemical Works aimed at restoring healthy liver metabolism.

Pipul

Pipul along with sunth ( dried ginger) and maricha ( pepper) restrains the excess deposition of fat. It ignites the “digestive fire “ in the gastrointestinal tract which will escalate the process of digestion, leaving no scope for fat to get deposited.

The richness of Pipul and Sunth is preserved in Bitocough and Branolia’s Honeyguard. Pipul, along with Vasak, Tulsi and Jashtimadhu are present in Bitocough which is an expectorant to combat cough and cold whereas Branolia’s HoneyGuard involves Honey, Tulsi, Jashtimadhu, Aswagandha along with Sunth to give an extra boost to our immunity.

Honey

This sweet viscous liquid, when taken before going to bed is exemplary for burning body fat. Honey contains vital hormones that curtail the appetite. This, in turn, enables weight loss as the rate of food consumption deters because of a bad appetite.

Honey is one of the ingredients amalgamated with Tulsi, Sunth, Jashtimadhu, and Ashwagandha in Branolia’s HoneyGuard which cures bronchial disorders.Thus, Branolia Chemical Works uplifts the ideals and principles of Ayurveda and makes our bond with Ayurveda even more concrete.

WHO1: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight

Ayurvedic Remedies for Diabetes

Diabetic

Life does not always tilt the scales of fortune in our favour. Since man’s expectation knows no bounds, it is inevitable that he gets engulfed with anxiety and stress if things don’t turn up his way or maybe if he is too worked up. It is more often discerned that health problems crop up from a disturbed mind or the health issues may be hereditary. The mind can be put to ease in a number of ways, and Ayurveda advocates all possible remedies to diminish such common health issues. WHO1 has reported that the number of people suffering from diabetes has spiraled from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. These figures indicate that diabetes is emerging as a common health issue that needs to be addressed in the upcoming years.

What is diabetes?

It is a condition of increased blood sugar levels in the body. The glucose in our bloodstream is the main source of energy obtained from the disintegration of food materials. The pancreas secretes a hormone called Insulin, which stimulates the passage of glucose into our cells for processing energy. When the body becomes incapable of producing sufficient insulin or, is unable to use insulin properly, a substantial amount of unused glucose persists in the bloodstream, leading to Diabetes.

Types of Diabetes:

  • Diabetes Mellitus:  This chronic situation arises either due to insufficient production of insulin or due to unresponsive behavior of cells to the glucose level.
  • Diabetes Insipidus:  This happens to be a rare situation of diabetes where the kidneys are unable to maintain the balance of body fluids and expel an abnormally large volume of urine from the body, which happens to be insipid.

Ayurvedic herbs and spices that can cure Diabetes

Since time immemorial, man has always opted for herbal remedies to cure unforeseen health disorders and Ayurveda has been benevolent enough to place its uncountable remedies at our disposition. Even though Diabetes stands as a tough challenge to Ayurveda since there are no permanent cure for it but there are certain herbs that can maintain the blood sugar level in the body regressing the negative impacts of diabetes.

Tulsi(Ocimum tenuiflorum)

This shrub is commonly grown in Indian households owing to its religious significance and medicinal properties. Tulsi is said to have diverse uses, one of them being, regulating the blood sugar levels in the body. It assists in pancreatic beta-cell function and secretion of insulin. It also helps in the absorption of glucose by the muscle cells. Traces of tulsi extract are found in Branolia’s  Honey Guard and Bitocough along with other ingredients to ease sore throat and combat viral infections.

Amla

The efficacies of the Indian gooseberry cannot be equated with any other herb in accordance with its medicinal properties. Amla is known to enhance body resistance against numerous ailments, the common ones being cough, cold & flu. However, it is also used in treating pancreatitis, a condition exhibiting inflamed pancreas, in which the insulin-secreting cells are debilitated, thus aggravating the glucose content of blood. Amla also contains chromium which balances the carbohydrate metabolism of the body, thus keeping a steady level of glucose in the blood. Livonia, manufactured by Branolia Chemical Works includes Amla extracts along with Haritaki and Bibhitaki, which cater to problems related to the Liver.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the aromatic spices that contribute to regulating the glucose content in the blood. It is unique in the sense that it counterfeits the effects of Insulin, increasing the uptake of glucose in the cells.

Cumin

Another regular spice used in the Indian kitchen is bestowed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory  properties responsible for normalizing blood sugar levels in the body.

Aswagandha

Another plant to be mentioned which not only plays a major role in managing stress and anxiety but also acts as an insulin stimulant, thus keeping tabs on the glucose level in the bloodstream. This herb, mixed with honey, Tulsi, Sunth, Joshtimodhu are the key ingredients of Branolia’s Honey Guard, an authentic formulation that takes care of the body’s immune system.

Kalmegh

These leaves are far bitter in taste than neem and possess outstanding healing properties, one of them being, curbing the glucose content in the bloodstream. It also helps in restoring healthy metabolism of the liver. This is the reason, the composition of Kalmegh and Triphala is bottled and sold as Livonia, a product of Branolia Chemical Works.

Thus we have been successful in utilizing the bountiful gifts bestowed by Nature to us. The measured Ayurvedic concoctions are indeed a blessing to the common man. Man,for ages, has recognized the treasure trove of Ayurvedic remedies and used them for his personal benefits. Owing to this fact, it is justified that Ayurveda’s profuse resources were never eclipsed to the common eye neither will it ever be in the years to come.

WHO1: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes

NATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY

It becomes a norm for every quintessential Indian to get tied to the phenomenal festivities offered by our culture, be it a small scale celebration or a festival celebrated with majesty. The dedication to participate in many festivities thrives on the heart of every Indian. The receding celebrations of Navratri, make way for the modest advances of the next session of festivities in a row, Dhanteras, Diwali and Bhai Dooj. Dhanteras assumed to be “the day of wealth” to be concise in one word, symbolizes abundance and replenishment of wealth in everyone’s lives. Another myth supporting the origin of this day is that as told in the Puranas ,Lord Dhanvantari, the God Of Ayurveda, had emerged from a Samudra Manthan and he held a Kalash of Amrit in one hand and the sacred text of Ayurveda in the other. This year( 2019) Dhanteras was held on the 25th of October. However, this calendar date also strikes a chord with us reminding that the Ministry of AYUSH, was commenced on the 9th of November, 2014. This Ministry was known as the Department of Indian System of Medicine and Homeopathy(ISM&H) and it had been formed in March 1995. Years later, it was renamed as AYUSH, the abbreviation for Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, in November 2003. It specifically focused on broadening the scope of education and research in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturotherapy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Over the years, the Ministry has encouraged the favourable development and propagation of the AYUSH techniques in the current health care systems.

The Ministry of AYUSH had come forward with the decision on celebrating the National Ayurveda Day every year,on the same day which is observed as Dhanteras. This year the Ministry of AYUSH conducted the Fourth Ayurveda Day at Jaipur while the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) were the ones who hosted the event. The NIA held both the Dhanvantari Pujan and National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards-2019 which were two events on the National Ayurveda Day. Shri Om Birla, Speaker in the Lok Sabha graced the event as the Chief Guest while Shri Shiprad Yesson Naik, the Union Minister of AYUSH participated in the event. The event also observed 25 delegates of Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) who were active participants of the subsequent events on the 4th Ayurveda Day. Ayurveda, the ancient healing system which dates back to thousand years, originated in India. It has been rendered as one of the most meticulous and well-documented systems of medicines. Modern India inculcates the Ayurvedic way of living even to this day. Ayurveda aims at preventing diseases and promote a healthy state of living. The primary objectives of National Ayurveda Day are:

  1. Endeavouring to propagate Ayurveda into the mainstream
  2. To concentrate on the strengths and unique principles offered by Ayurveda
  3. Utilizing Ayurveda’s potentials as a cornerstone of reducing diseases and related morbidity and mortality.
  4. Exploration of Ayurveda’s potential, which plays an instrumental role in shaping national health policy and National Health programs.
  5. To create awareness amongst the young generation and to propagate Ayurvedic principles of healing within the society, in modern India.

The well-reputed Branolia Chemical Works has always upheld the principles of Ayurveda, over such a vast expanse of time and it still continues to do so. Ayurveda can always be addressed as a medical benefactor who has dissipated the arduous health miseries from the lives of people. Branolia Chemical Works has embraced the authenticities of Ayurveda through its products. Each of the products of Branolia Chemical Works, namely, Branolia, Branolia’s Kulerron, Branolia’s Honey Guard, Bitocough, Bellytone, and Livonia have alleviated people from their adverse health conditions and will continue to do so many more years down the line.

Nobel Prize Winners Study the Fluctuating Levels of Oxygen in the Blood: How can Ayurveda contribute to it?

 

With every fleeting second, as one is delving deeper into the varied branches of science, so is he reaping the benefits of novel scientific developments, technological advancements and discoveries and these inventions are signals of mankind putting their best foot forward towards a generative and a productive future ahead. One such progressive step has been taken in the field of medicine and physiology, by three veteran scientists, William G. Kaelin, Gregg L. Semenza and Peter J. Ratcliffe who have received the highest accolade for their impressive discovery in the field of medicine and physiology, that is the Nobel Prize, for their authentic discovery of tracking the adaptation of cells in accordance with the changing levels of oxygen in the bloodstream.

Oxygen is an essential element that exists in nature in the purest form. It plays an important role in sustaining living organisms. The study conducted had highlighted the molecular mechanisms monitoring the activities of the genes, in accordance with the fluctuating levels of oxygen in the blood. However, these fluctuating levels of oxygen in blood, at times, may create a condition of low oxygen diffusion. Haemoglobin, which are proteins identified as oxygen carriers of the body, are unable to accommodate sufficient oxygen in them to be circulated all over the body, on account of low oxygen diffusion rates and this will hinder the oxygen supply to the tissues. These conditions induce Hypoxia, a condition exhibiting low oxygen content in the body tissues. This would lead to adverse changes in cellular metabolism as Hypoxia, debilitates the oxygen content in the cells, subsiding cellular metabolism and gene expression in the cells. Hypoxia is also responsible for various respiratory diseases, neural and heart disorders in the body. Hypoxia is one of the many causes inducing malignant tumors in the body. For an expanding mass of tumor, the demand for oxygen is much more than its supply. The deficit in the oxygen supply induces the tumor cells to grow distant from the vascular system, hindering the diffusion of oxygen and this situation culminates in a fatal hypoxic environment. However, this remarkable study on oxygen detecting mechanisms, lays down potential guidelines, for healing diseases resulting from a dearth in the oxygen supply to the tissues of the body, thus repressing the growth of tumors around the breast, colorectal areas and pancreas which later on aggravates into cancer. However, the ancient Indian healing system of Ayurveda has devised ways to counter the effect of Hypoxia. Withania Somnifera, commonly known as Aswagandha, identified by Ayurvedic experts, as one of the essential components of Ayurvedic concoctions, works wonders in replenishing oxygen content in the blood and eliminating Hypoxia. It escalates the growth of RBC’s(red blood cells) in the body and since RBC’s are responsible for carrying oxygen all over the system, it ensures the healthy functioning of the cardiorespiratory system. It assists in the regulation of aerobic respiration and the cardiorespiratory processes function actively, diminishing the risks of fatal cardiovascular diseases. Another contribution of Ayurveda is Kulerron, which is one of the products of Branolia Chemical Works. This Ayurvedic tonic proves beneficial, especially for enriching the haemoglobin content in the blood which are the carriers of oxygen. The multiplication of haemoglobin automatically facilitates the faster transportation of oxygen throughout the body, diminishing the risks of Hypoxia.

The beneficial properties defining Aswagandha have been infused in the products of Branolia Chemicals. Extracts of Aswagandha are infused in Branolia’s Kulerron, which is blood replenishing Ayurvedic tonic and also in Branolia’s Honey Guard which fights bronchial congestion as it has anti-oxidant properties. Thus Aswagandha exhibits its multi-purpose utilities and versatile applications in Ayurveda and Branolia Chemical’s, over the years has borrowed the essential properties of Ashwagandha to make their products worthwhile.

Ayurveda for a Healthy Navratri

The month of October ushers with it, the splendour and grandeur of seasonal festivals. In this month, people get carried away with the frenzy and frolic surrounding them, enjoying the company of their relatives and peers. One such festival, known for its exuberant ambience is Navratri. Navratri is an auspicious occasion, celebrated over a length of nine days, aimed at invoking the spirit of the deity, Goddess Durga, accompanied with the festive mood and savoring of aromatic delicacies. This auspicious occasion is celebrated during autumn, and it marks the beginning of the season change, the transition period between summer and winter. Amidst all the fun and frolic and open-air programmes, people do not pay much heed to the chilled nip in the air during this time of the month, which becomes their prime reason for falling prey to viral infections and cold flu. Not only that, but the guilty pleasures of gorging on an array of delicacies served during such occasions, after a full day’s fast, make people victims of indigestion and gastric problems. This is where

Ayurveda provides the best solutions for people to cure themselves of the illness and jive their way through the festive season and enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Ayurvedic extracts and concoctions prove to be the simplest and indispensable solutions to viral infections and gut centric problems. Most people, due to their careless attitude, do not take precautionary measures to shield themselves from the sudden Celsius dips, resulting in viral fevers and sore throat. Even allergies are predominant among people during this time.

Bitocough & Branolia’s Honeyguard serve the purpose of curing such ailments. Branolia’s Honeyguard is a tonic composed of Honey, Tulsi, Sunth, Jostimadhu, and Aswagandha. Bitocough comprises ingredients Vasak, Pipul, Tulsi and Jostimadhu.

These ingredients have effective medicinal properties:

  • Tulsi: It is necessarily used in tonics for combating bronchial problems. It enhances the immunity of the human body and fights against chronic cough& cold.
  • Vasak: It is a renowned broncho-dilator.
  • Pipul: It combats allergic cough & irritating throat sensation.
  • Aswagandha: It is an effective stimulator of the immune system. It curbs the multiplication of virus.
  • Jostimadhu: It is specifically used to combat tonsil inflammation.
  • Sunth: It is an herbal remedy (dried ginger) used for treating the common cold.

These ingredients infused in Bitocough and Branolia’s Honeyguard assist in getting rid of all sorts of viral and bronchial infections.

On the other hand, Bellytone and Livonia, the two well-known products of Branolia Chemicals, resolve the issues related to the stomach, which occur due to indulgence in gluten-based foods, rich and spicy platters and in disciplined dietary habits, during festive seasons. Bellytone, having Sonapata, Haritaki, Ajowan & Teori as its primary constituents, assist in the smooth functioning of the bowels, relieving constipation. Livonia, on the other hand, is another product of Branolia Chemicals that regulates digestion and specifically, monitors the functioning of the liver. It is an amalgamation of Kalmegh and Triphala.

The medicinal properties of the constituents infused in Branolia Chemical’s two tonics, Bellytone & Livonia are such:

  • Sonapata: It is identified as a purgative.
  • Ajowan: It catalyzes the digestion.
  • Teori: It expels gas from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby, controlling flatulence.
  • Kalmegh: It is an effective balancing agent and monitors the proper functioning of the liver.
  • Triphala: A combination of three fruits, Amlaki, Haritaki, and Bahira, aimed at regulating the digestive system due to its detoxifying properties.

Ayurveda indeed acts as a massive storehouse of authentic herbal concoctions which especially, come handy during the festive season and its specific herbal combinations assure people of a blissful and harmonious life, not only during the festive season but all round the year.

Brahmi – the Herb of Grace

Ayurveda believes in the overall well- being of a human being and thus it is often termed as the ‘science of life’. Ayurveda also lays stress on maintaining a proper balance in every sphere of our lives; be it physical, emotional and spiritual. It is of utmost importance to all of us that this balance is maintained under all circumstances. In the modern world increasing digitalization is impacting our day- to – day functioning to a great extent. Till recently any individual would remember at any given times a minimum of ten phone numbers. However, with a ready to use cell phone address book and other technological devices that do the remembering for humans the ability to memorize has witnessed a downfall. But if someone is frequently being forgetful then it is time to treat one’s brain with a little bit of Ayurveda.

According to Ayurveda there are three aspects of memory and learning that the brain does. They are: a) the power of learning; b) the power to retain and process and c) the power to recall and remember.The most common popular herb used in Ayurveda to enhance the functioning of the brain is Brahmi.

Scientifically known as Bacopa Monnieri ; Brahmi as it is popularly known is a herb which is being used in Ayurveda since time immemorial. It is also known as an herb of grace which is commonly used to promote intellect and overall functioning of the brain. The Brahmi plant which is a creeper with thick leaves is easily available across the globe.

The unique health benefits of this amazing Ayurvedic herb are Brahmi has been commonly used in Ayurvedic medicines to enhance the power of the brain. Some of the organic compounds in brahmi stimulate cognitive pathways in the brain to enhance the cognitive ability of humans , according to a study by Devendra, Patel Saurabh Shankar et al., 2018 (Journal of Pharmacognosy and Photochemistry). The leaves of the Brahmi plant are also known to reduce stress and anxiety in humans. It also acts in enhancing the cognitive function, reduces amyloidal levels in PSAPP mice, the effect on the cholinergic system, prevents aluminum neurotoxicity i.e., protect the brain from oxidative damage resulting from aluminum toxicity. (Source: https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/medhya-rasayanas-in-brain-function-and-disease-2161-0444-1000309.php?aid=64517).

Brahmi in combination with other herbs increases the effectiveness of Branolia to a large extent. It also works as an anti – inflammatory and nerve tonic agent when combined with digestive stimulants like cumin seeds, fennel seeds to name a few.

Branolia an Ayurvedic tonic is the flagship product from the house of Branolia Chemicals was first launched in 1922.This tonic is being used for improving the mental capacities for more than a decade. Branolia is fortified with the goodness of Satamuli,Aswagandha, Jyoshtimadhu and Alkushi which apart from enhancing the capacities of the brain improves muscle and tissue flexibility. Branolia can be administered to people of all ages. It is useful to sharpen the cognitive skills in the young ones, for the middle aged to relieve them from stress. Branolia is especially of value to the senior citizens to manage age related mental degeneration. It can be consumed by all for a healthy lifestyle.

Ayurvedic Medicine Market Visualizes a Surge Globally

Research reports published by Orbis Research.com predict that the Global Ayurvedic Market will witness an upward surge to $9,791.0 million by 2022. These are positive signals for manufacturers of Ayurvedic products to make a foray into the global market. Success to a large extent will depend on the online presence of Ayurvedic medicine manufacturers. The conditions favorable for the spread of Ayurveda globally can be attributed to the fact that ayurvedic medicine has become more:

  1. Accessible and affordable –Ayurvedic medicines are natural and have no side effects. With the global consumer trend shifting towards herbal, organic, and natural solution there is a rise in the demand for ayurvedic products from all the corners of the world. The hindrance was in the accessibility and affordability of the Ayurvedic products. Manufacturers of Ayurvedic products have also woken up to new possibilities of marketing to reach out to the necessary consumer segment. The growth in online marketplaces globally has bolstered the entire process of reaching out to consumers globally.
  2. Technologically Driven – The ayurvedic healthcare segment has received a boost from the rise in online trade and commerce. Online transactions are a lot more transparent and to add to that the introduction of quality control standards by the Ministry of Ayush has enhanced consumer confidence.

The online marketplaces have increased consumer confidence in the products by providing accurate information about the products. Easy accesses to patient testimonial and reviews on the products have also helped users get a better update about the products offered in the market.

  • Leveraging research and development – The Ministry of Ayush has initiated various projects to boost research and development in the field of Ayurvedic medicine. Recently they have signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to promote cooperation in the field Indian traditional medicinal system. With the incorporation of new technology in this field, Ayurvedic medicine is all set to soar high. The government is also promoting Ayurvedic hospitals and institution in the country.

Ayurvedic medicine originally committed itself to a two-fold purpose––– a reversal of diseases and health promotion with no side effects. Ayurveda aimed towards an entire paradigm shift brought on by a shift in consumer mindsets from trying to achieve mere physical health to adopting an approach that considers physical, mental/psychological, and spiritual health. With many countries incorporating therapies that include Ayurvedic medicines as part of their tourism promotion strategy, the unique differentiation potential of authentic Ayurvedic health services has increased in the last couple of decades.

Branolia Chemical Works with its huge range of ayurvedic medicine is all set to become market winners.

Ayurvedic Tips for a Cool Summer

Ayurveda sustains on the common knowledge that seasons are divided on the basis of elemental forces or doshas as they are popularly known. The three doshas are kapha, pitta, and dosha. The summer season is ruled by the pitta dosha which is ruled by the fire and water element. Balancing these two elements will lead to a healthy body. The advent of summer in India is laced with extreme heat, dehydration, sweat and skin problems. However, Ayurveda has a lot to offer to maintain a healthy body in this weather.

 Ayurveda believes that whatever is happening in nature is also happening inside our bodies. This simply indicates to the fact that during the hot summer months heat accumulates inside our bodies as well. Thus consuming proper food is the best tool to balance out excessive summer heat. It is only possible by consuming food with higher water content that will keep the bodies hydrated at all times. Some of the Ayurvedic tips to keep cool this summer are:

  1. Consume foods to address the Pitta Dosha: In order to balance out the doshas during the summer months including foods with cooling effect will help. The focus should be on consuming:
    • Vegetables: Cucumber, summer squashes (zucchini), celery, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, and all green vegetables (spinach, kale, chard, etc.)
    • Fruits: Melons, grapes, berries, and stone fruits such as peaches and pears
  2. Time is an essential factor: It is advisable that especially during the summer months one should not skip lunch. A proper lunch will help balance out the pitta dosha and keep the body cool. Foods like meats, carrots, garlic, and chili should not be consumed in large quantities as they tend to hamper the functioning of the overall bodily functions by increasing the pitta dosha. Moreover, all strenuous activities should be avoided when the sun is overhead.
  3. Refrain from hot drinks: Hot beverages of all kinds should be especially avoided during the summer months. It is essential to consume drinks that are in the room temperature and are neither very hot nor very cool. Drinking chilled waters harm digestion in many ways.
  4. Moderate exercising is the key: Exercising should be of moderate nature as excessive exercising may create an imbalance in the body. It is always advisable to practice breathing exercises which have a calming and cooling effect on the body.
  5. Go herbal – Ayurvedic herbs have been in vogue since generation as to help in maintaining the balance and warding off the doshas. The most common herb that can be used to have a cooling effect on the brain is Brahmi along with Ashwagandha. Branoila Chemicals have been manufacturing the well-known tonic ‘Branolia’ since decades. This tonic will not only enhance brain function but will also have a cooling effect. Another important herb which is essential to detoxify the body is the Triphala. Its use as a digestive cleanser has been supported by various modern scientific studies as well. Livonia from the house of Branolia Chemicals is fortified with the goodness of Triphala will help balance out the pitta dosha.

Ayurveda strongly recommends that diet needs to change with every season to promote healthy and happy living.

Anemia at Older Age

With population aging, Anemia in older patients is a condition which doctors have to increasingly deal with. Large prospective registry studies have revealed an overall prevalence of anemia ranging from 10% to 24% in older individuals. Senior adults admitted to the hospital are more frequently affected by anemia (40%), and the prevalence is even higher (47%) in nursing home residents. Incidence of anemia rises with age with from 17% for males and 13% for females for mean age of 65 yrs to 45% for males and 30% of females in 85 yrs old age bracket.

Old_Age_Amenia

World Health Organization (WHO) thresholds were established in 1968 in a cohort of persons <65 years old, defining anemia as a hemoglobin (Hb) level of <130 g/L in men and <120 g/L in women. However, Hb levels decline with age and are distinct in different ethnic groups.

Low Hb levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, insomnia, impaired mood, and restricted Quality of Life. Moreover, anemia is associated with reduced physical performance. Low Hb levels are associated with an increased risk for falls and fractures. In addition, the presence of anemia is significantly associated with more frequent hospitalization and longer hospital stays for the elderly.

The various types of anemia affecting the elderly:

Anemia based on iron, folate, and/or vitamin B12 deficiency

Iron depletion is often associated with malnutrition. Age-dependent alterations in function of Gastro Intestinal Tract, concurrent use of multiple medications, and social isolation may lead to malnutrition and subsequent anemia. Bleeding due to a variety of medications (eg, acetylsalicylic acid, standard or direct oral anticoagulants) or GI diseases, including cancer, is the most frequent cause of iron-deficient anemia in older patients.

Anemia developing in the context of Chronic Kidney Disease

At least one-third of anemic patients older than 65 years show a hyper-inflammatory state typical for Chronic kidney disease(CKD) or for AI (cancer, autoimmune disease, and chronic infection). Renal failure results in severe anemia because of reduced EPO production. Erythropoietin (EPO) is the glycoprotein hormone that promotes differentiation of Erythroid Progenitor cells in bone marrow.

Clonal Anemia

Anemia is a condition wherein the number of red blood cells decreases in number and thus the oxygen carrying capacity of blood falls. Generally it is owed to iron deficiency. However in the older population it may be because of mutation in the blood cells. Though mutations take place in our body throughout our lifetime, they are small and cause no trouble. However as we grow older, the effect of these accumulated mutations become visible.

Branolia’s Kulleron brings in the goodness of Kulekhara in helping maintain hemoglobin levels in the blood. Kulekhara herb has been known for its anemia combating abilities in traditional medicine and ratified by modern research. Kulekhara contains 7.03 mg/100 gm of iron as well as other micro nutrients like sodium, potassium and copper. All this goodness goes into Kulleron which is prepared from the whole plant including root, leaves and stem.

Kulleron is an ayurvedic formulation. Advice of the doctor for persistent anemia is recommended.

Reference:

  1. Gaskell H, Derry S, Andrew Moore R, McQuay HJ. Prevalence of anaemia in older persons: systematic review. BMC Geriatr. 2008;8:1.
  2. Merchant AA, Roy CN. Not so benign haematology: anaemia of the elderly. Br J Haematol.2012;156(2):173-185.
  3. Stauder R, Thein SL. Anemia in the elderly: clinical implications and new therapeutic concepts.Haematologica. 2014;99(7):1127-1130.
  4. Artz AS, Thirman MJ. Unexplained anemia predominates despite an intensive evaluation in a racially diverse cohort of older adults from a referral anemia clinic. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci.2011;66A(8):925-932.
  5. Valent P. Anaemia of the elderly (AOE): does it exist and does it matter in clinical practice? Eur J Clin Invest. 2008;38(10):782-783.
  6. Valent P, Horny HP, Bennett JM, et al. Definitions and standards in the diagnosis and treatment of the myelodysplastic syndromes: consensus statements and report from a working conference. Leuk Res. 2007;31(6):727-736.
  7. Valent P, Orazi A, Steensma DP, et al. Proposed minimal diagnostic criteria for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and potential pre-MDS conditions. Oncotarget. 2017;8(43):73483-73500.