Tag Archives: Health

Bellytone, Bitocough, Branolia, Branolia Heroes, Honey Guard, Kulekhara, Kulerron, Livonia

The Women Idol Makers of Bengal

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Women Idol Makers of Bengal

Kumartoli, in Kolkata, is a famous place for being the designer’s abode of thousands of idols that are rolled out each year during the festive season. A group of artisans has been mesmerizing the world with their unique art form. It has always been a male bastion for all these years. A few women have challenged this monopoly of male artisans. These new and determined breeds of women are breathing new life into wet clay to create a goddess that they can relate to.

The few of the extraordinary women folk who were able to carve a niche a niche out for themselves are:

  1. Mala Pal – Her small room in the narrow lanes of Kumartoli are adorned with several awards that she has won for her art. After quitting formal schooling at the age of 15, she only took up working as a full-time artisan after her father’s death. Today she has earned a place for herself and the idols made by her are exported to various countries in Australia, Canada, and Mala’s forte is the foldable idols that can be easily shipped to foreign locales. She has been successful and is now a famous name in Kumartoli.
  2. China Pal – China was initiated into this trade by a sudden twist of destiny. A sudden demise of her father and the financial hardship that followed forced China to take up the family business. Twenty-two years and China is today overseeing a team of twelve people working hard to meet the demands of her client. It is not just her profession but her passion that has earned her international fame. China has also participated in the China-South Asia & Southeast Asia Arts Week and Lancang Mekong Arts Festival.
  3. Kanchi Pal – She is a one-woman army who faced a lot of hardships, competition from her male counterparts to carve a place for her. Today all her idols are in high demand. She is one of the new generations of artists who are well adept in designing contemporary idols. Her idols have also won awards and accolades.

Clad in a sari these women entered this profession, not by choice but sheer coincidence. There have been times when these women have lost faith, but they kept fighting. Over the years, these hard-working women have mastered the art of mixing clay to give the right dimension to the idols that they design with such care. Today they are recognized for their talents globally and often conduct workshops all over the world. They conduct camps and have also ventured into the domain of creating clay jewelry during the lay months.

Branolia Chemicals recognizes the true spirit of these women, embodiments of Durga and Kali in real life.

At Branolia Chemical Works, concern for women and their health needs has always been foremost in our minds. This prompted our research team to bring out the Ayurvedic formulation ‘Kulerron’, which is extremely effective against anemia. With anemia being endemic amongst women in India, we hope to do our bit to meet this health challenge afflicting women effectively.

 

Bitocough, Branolia, Branolia Health, Haritaki, Pipul, Trifala, Tulsi, Vasak

Address Air Pollution with Ayurveda

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Air pollution

A week before Diwali India woke up to some astonishing facts published by the WHO (World Health Organisation) on the present condition of air pollution in India. The study highlighted that about 1 lakh children in India have died because of air pollution in the year 2016. Another study conducted by Greenpeace, a social work organization also published a report stating that 1.2 million deaths are occurring in India every year on account of the bad quality of air inhaled by the people. The current rise in environmental problems associated with the well –beings of humans are forcing folks to look at Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine.

Ayurveda aims towards balancing the entire eco-system of human existence in the best possible way. The main benefit of Ayurvedic medicine is that it is not only curative but at the same time preventive and restorative. It is well known that polluted air is one of the primary causes of adding toxins to our body making it more assailable to lung-related diseases and infections. Extreme cases have also come in the forefront where people have been afflicted with lung cancer. According to Ayurveda an increase in toxin content in the body leads to an imbalance in the Tridoshas. Ayurvedic treatment is solely based on the premise that a proper balance between Vata, Kapha and Pitta is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. Ayurveda has an entire spectrum of methods to address this issue.

Ayurveda prescribes certain herbs to tackle the ill –effects of air pollution. The most important herbs prescribed by Ayurveda are:

  1. Tulsi – It is often referred to as the mother of all medicinal herbs. It is known to balance the Kapha dosha and is one of the key ingredients in the treatment of asthma, and other chronic respiratory disorders. It is also regarded as one of the most formidable anti-viral herbs with anti-microbial properties. The Tulsi plant also acts as an air purifier and if placed near the main entrance of a house will help in keeping the environment clean and pure.
  2. Triphala – There is a popular saying that is used amongst the Ayurvedic practitioners in India that with the proper use of Triphala all ailments related to the human body can be treated. Triphala is a combination of three fruits namely, Haritaki, Amalaki and Bibhitaki. Triphala is particularly effective in removing toxins from the human body. It also helps in balancing the Tridosha, which is a necessary component for good health.
  3. Vasaka or Vasak – It is a medicinal herb which is used to treat many ailments like asthma, bronchitis, and various other disorders. It is also used as an expectorant and a bronchodilator. The use of this herb can help fight ailments related to a lung Vasak is used as an ingredient in Bitocough, a cough syrup from Branolia Chemicals.

All the three key ingredients prescribed in Ayurveda for better functioning of the lungs and improving body constitution against the harshness of the external environment is present in Bitocough, an Ayurvedic formulation for fighting cough and cold. Bitocough is an effective shield in combating the adverse impact of air pollution and resultant lung disorders.

Bramhi, Branolia, Branolia Health, Jastimadhu

Ayurvedic Perspective to Stress Management

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Stress Management

A common story about all of us when one is not able to reach office on time or fail to attend an important deadline the world seems to come to a halt. Dejection and depression sets in and nothing seems to go according to the set plan. The urge to control the environment around us increases the stress factors in our lives. The problem of today’s world is that one experiences stress so often that diseases like high blood pressure, indigestion, lowered immune function, irritability or just plain exhaustion commonly plagues us. Ayurveda insists on maintaining a harmonious balance between the vital energies of our body, the vata, pitta, and kapha to deal with all kinds of stress and ailments. Ayurveda’s definition of health refers not only to the absence of human ailments but also a holistic level of well- being throughout a person’s life. Ayurveda’s approach to treating diseases involves a threefold approach that comprises the overall functioning of the mind-body, and spirit. They have a deep influence on the quality of life and a slight imbalance can lead to a number of diseases both physical and otherwise.

Branolia Chemical Works have a formulated a tonic ‘Branolia’ using the miracle herb Brahmi for enhancing the functionalities of the brain. Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri has been used as medicine to soothe the mind for centuries. Brahmi the key ingredient in Branolia has been known to work wonders in diseases like Alzheimer’s, boosting of memory, lowering anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder some allergic conditions, irritable bowel syndrome, and as a tonic to fight stress.

What to do about everyday stress?

There are both internal and external factors that leads to stress. External factors are like financial problems, work pressures and mostly factors beyond our control. Internal factors are more under our purview like low self-esteem, lack of sleep to name a few. The best thing is all of these factors can be controlled. The challenge is to play and stay healthy.

Some of the common ways one can tackle stress are:

  1. Communicating Right – A lot of stress builds up with the breaking down of the communicating system around us. Each time a person fails to address the reason and communicate the problem toxins starts piling up inside us and slowly starts to affect our health. Talking helps at times and even being among other people with similar problems can also help.
  2. Keeping track or maintain a checklist – A checklist as to the work in hand can help us during the day. Each time a work gets done it adds up to the feel-good This helps in relaxing the mind and reducing stress to a large extent.
  3. Hold the hands of Nature – It is advisable in today’s world to go back to medicinal herbs for a better life. Turning to ayurvedic medicines and way of life helps in maintaining the balance of the doshas in the body. Brahmi a commonly found medicinal herb is known to influence and enhance the well-being and the quality of consciousness.

Ayurveda helps in building a bridge between the body and mind. Easy availability of formulations from the house of Branolia Chemical Works uses herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Jasthimadhu has a calming effect and helps in lowering anxiety and stress.

Ajowan, Bellytone, Branolia Health, Haritaki

14% of Indians Suffer from Constipation

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A large number of Indians are facing the Piku syndrome. “Motion Se Hi Emotion” which Bhashkor Banerjee (Amitabh Bachchan) repeats every time when his effort and outcome in the toilet do not match rings a bell for at least 14% of Indians who suffer from chronic constipation.

The incidence of chronic constipation is pervasive in India as revealed by the study by the Pharma major Abbot. Doctors define chronic constipation as a condition where there is the inability to pass stools more than three times a week, and for more than three months at a stretch. Other symptoms experienced are abnormally hard stools, the need to strain very hard to pass motions, feeling of incomplete evacuation or a feeling of bowel obstruction.

The Abbot survey titled “Gut Health Survey” revealed the following:

  • Chronic Constipation in India is higher than the international average: While globally chronic constipation afflicts 10% of the population, in India this figure stand at 14%.
  • Older people report a higher incidence of chronic constipation: 20% of the people in higher age group (45-65) experience constipation as compared to the overall average of 14%.
  • Causes of constipation directly linked to the type of food intake: Non- vegetarian food, low water intake, snacking and eating fried food frequently leads to constipation.
  • Chronic constipation adversely impacts the quality of life: Lack of sleep, stress, physical discomfort (gas, acidity, stomach aches, loss of appetite etc), irritability, mood swings, lack of interest in work are some of the frequently mentioned conditions emanating out of constipation.
  • Serious impacts of constipation are known to the majority of patients: 75% of the respondents reported that they knew that prolonged constipation can lead to other medical problems, with piles or haemorrhoids, ulcers, abdominal pain and anal fissures being the leading issues.
  • Medical attention is rarely sought in preliminary stages for constipation: Seeking prompt medical attention for constipation is not a norm in India. 80% of the respondents with chronic constipation looked for a solution only after they faced the issue multiple times. The average time taken to visit a doctor was 80 days from the time the respondents first faced symptoms of chronic constipation. About 30% of the patients approached a doctor only after 3 -5 months or more of continuous symptoms. 60% of people with chronic constipation opted for home remedies as the most preferred treatment option for relief. However, half the people who self-medicated eventually visited a doctor for a cure.

We at Branolia understand the debilitating conditions that constipation can lead to and would advise taking corrective measures at the advent of constipation symptoms.

Branolia’s Bellytone brings the knowledge of Ayurveda to help chronic constipation patients to deal with their situation. Made from herbal ingredients like Sonapata, Haritaki, Teori & Ajowan blended perfectly, this extremely effective preparation keeps stomach problem at bay. Sonapata is useful as a purgative in habitual constipation, while Hartaki is a good laxative and fights flatulence. Teori acts as a carminative and prevents the formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract thereby combating flatulence.

Branolia’s Bellytone is the natural way of fighting chronic constipation and its timely use helps prevent serious medical problems associated with prolonged constipation to set in like piles or haemorrhoids, ulcers, abdominal pain and anal fissures.

On a lighter note, we sometimes wonder that if Mr. Bhashkor Banerjee (in Piku movie) had taken Bellytone in time, then the movie Piku would have had a different storyline.

Branolia Health, Kulekhara, Kulerron

AYUSH Industry Taking India to the World

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AYUSH Industry Taking India to the World

Home to 6,600 medicinal plants, India is the second largest exporter of AYUSH and herbal products in the world. The Indian domestic market for AYUSH is estimated at Rs. 500 crores, and exports are worth Rs. 200 crores. The AYUSH industry is expected to see a double-digit growth and by 2020 provide direct employment to 1 million people directly and indirect jobs to about 25 million persons.

In recognition of the potential of AYUSH being a major driver of the Indian economy has allowed 100 percent foreign direct investment (FDI) in AYUSH. It is now for the stakeholders in AYUSH namely the practitioners, pharma companies, AYUSH academia and AYUSH researchers and others to ensure that AYUSH reaches its full potential both in India and abroad.

We at Branolia Chemical Works for last 95 years have had consistent faith in AYUSH. A product of the Indian Independence movement, Branolia Chemical Works entered into the foray of Ayurvedic formulations when the overall public sentiment was skewed towards allopathic medicine. We have been a witness to of how slowly but surely the public sentiments and acceptability of AYUSH as an alternative curative approach has found traction. We are also thankful to our farmers who have taken to growing medicinal plants organically.

We at Branolia congratulate the AYUSH practitioners, AYUSH academia and the government for bringing up this perceptible change. The setting up of AYUSH ministry by the Government of India was a big step in mainstreaming AYUSH. Further, the present initiative of the Government of mainstreaming AYUSH practitioners into the modern medical system through a bridge course is something we applaud.

We at Branolia Chemical Works have constantly tried to bring newer products at very reasonable prices to bring the goodness of Ayurveda to the people and also provide effective formulations in the hands of the practitioners. Our newest formulation Kulleron, based on Kulekhara (H.Spinosa) has proven highly effective to counter anemia.

We will always walk with the AYUSH community and do whatever possible to see that AYUSH reaches its full potential as a curative method and as well as the driver of the Indian economy.

Branolia Chemical Works stands in solidarity with the AYUSH community. Can we count on you as well!

Bramhi, Branolia, Branolia Health

Positive Impact of Brahmi in Management of Schizophrenia

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Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), is known to Ayurveda to improve cognitive ability, memory and learning skills.

A case study of a Schizophrenia patient was presented in a scientific paper by Sarkar et al in J Ayurveda Integr Med v.3(4); Oct-Dec 2012 which alluded to positive add-on effect of Brahmi to allopathic medicine for managing Schizophrenia.

Mr. A, a 34-year-old single graduate male, presented with suspiciousness and fearfulness, wandering behavior, muttering to self, unprovoked aggression and disorganized behavior for the past 15 years. The patient was diagnosed as having paranoid schizophrenia.

Initially, the patient was given olanzapine tablets 10 mg/day and increased gradually up to 20 mg over a period of two weeks. There was an initial improvement in psychopathology and subsequently, it plateaued out. Subsequently, the patient was given an add-on trial of Ayurvedic drug Brahmi (500 mg) for a period of one month.

During the trial, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Brief Psychiatric Scale (BPRS) scores were tracked, with a reduction in scores indicating desirable impact.

The results are summarized below:

Regimen PANSS BPRS
Pre Treatment 108 48
Post Olanzapine(10-20 mg) 2 weeks 92 38
Brahmi add on (500 mg) + Olanzapine (20 mg) 67 27

This does provide evidence of efficacy of Brahmi in the improvement of the positive symptoms of schizophrenia.  The exact mechanism of effect of Brahmi on schizophrenia is not well understood. Research does provide some evidence.

  • Animal researchers have demonstrated the anti-oxidant properties of Bacopa extracts in the brain, which could potentially lead to its positive effect on mental function.
  • Bacopa monnieri has been reported to repair damaged neurons by enhancing kinase activity, restoration of synaptic activity, ultimately enhancing nerve impulse transmission in the brain.
  • The nootropic properties of Brahmi have been reported to be possibly mediated by its constituent saponins, bacosides A and B through the glutaminergic

Branolia is a Brahmi based ayurvedic tonic trusted by millions of households for over last 90 years. Backed by the ancient texts of Ayurveda and corroborated by modern day research, Brahmi has emerged as a leading herb in improving brain functioning. Branolia contains the best quality Brahmi herbs processed at its state of the art production facility.

Branolia salutes the medical researchers who give modern scientific validity to ancient Ayurvedic knowledge.

Branolia Health, Career

Allowing AYUSH doctors to practice basic modern medicine is a good move

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Rural Primary Health Centres in the rural hinterland of our country lie waiting for a doctor. The building is there, medicines are there, beds are there and attendant medical equipment. The absence of a doctor at these PHCs makes the investment on these brick and mortar structures redundant.It has indeed been a bold move on part of the government to launch The Bridge Programs on Certificate in Community Health for Ayurveda Practitioners’ to integrate Ayush practitioners into the fold of modern medicine. They can then man the Primary Health Centres or set up a practice especially in rural areas where none exist.There have been many detractors to this move, however, we feel the move of the government is the most plausible step to take in wake of the curative health crisis in rural areas in absence of doctors. Here are our arguments:

We just do not have enough doctors

World Health Organisation norms require a doctor-population ratio to be 1:1000. IMA data reveals that this ratio is 1:1674 in India. This shortfall is further accentuated by the reluctance of doctors to take up rural postings, making doctors a rare sight in many rural pockets. The situation is worse in difficult areas like the mountainous regions of Uttarakhand, the jungles of Sunderbans or the far-flung deserts of Barmer. This leaves a huge space for quacks to masquerade as doctors and dispenses medicine, an extremely scary proposition. India has about 6.86 lakh qualified AYUSH doctors, who after the bridge course would be well positioned to provide basic medical care. No one expects them to implant a pacemaker, but surely he/she would know the difference between malaria and dengue and more importantly what is needed to be done.

Will Bridge Course be enough to prepare AYUSH doctors for modern medicine

An Ayurveda student invests 5.5 years to become a doctor. He/she is trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and herb — pharmacology. They dissect human bodies to learn anatomy and physiology. Learning about allopathic pharmacology is also included in BAMS syllabus. They are well versed in the various minor surgical procedures. The step from AYUSH doctor to modern medicine is much shorter than thought. A bridge course to orient Ayush doctors to modern pharmacology and a list of allopathic medicine should help in him/her to practice basic medical care.  A five-year rural posting has been made mandatory for all those keen to do the bridge course.

The ground reality is that AYUSH doctors are already filling in for MBBS doctors in rural areas

In remote regions and villages where there is no MBBS doctor in sight, AYUSH practitioners help dispense basic medical services and even help save lives by minimizing fatal effects of easily treatable conditions like diarrhea. Unless and until trained doctors are made available, people will continue to flock to these practitioners anyway in desperate need of medical help. Right training can help reduce the public health challenges of anaemia, malnutrition, pneumonia, diarrhea, and other communicable diseases.

Many States have already started the process of getting Ayush doctors ready

States like Odisha, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Karnataka and recently West Bengal which reeled under fake doctor crisis have started putting the processes in place. There is a felt need, the demand for medical care in rural areas is becoming a serious governance issue.

More similar initiatives to reach health care to rural areas

The Central Government has approved the introduction of a course namely, Bachelor of Science (Community Health). The main objective of the proposed course is to create mid-level health professionals who would possess the necessary public health and ambulatory care competencies to serve the rural population and will primarily be deployed at Sub Centres. While the long-term solution lies in producing more doctors, in the short and medium turn turning to AYUSH doctors to bridge the gap is a commendable move. Indian Medical Association has not been in favour.We at Branolia Chemical Works feel that the best should not become the enemy of the good.

Branolia wishes our AYUSH doctors good luck as they step in to bridge the huge shortage of doctors in our rural areas.

Bramhi, Branolia, Branolia Health

Social Media Addiction – You may be one without even knowing it

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There are more than a few billion social media users worldwide, representing a global increase in the all-round increase in the number of digital users. Social network penetration worldwide is ever-increasing. In 2017, 71 percent of internet users were social network users and these figures are expected to grow. ( Data Source: https://www.statista.com).

In India, the documented number of social media users approximate to 196.02 million in 2017 which is expected to rise to 226 million in the coming year. Social networking already accounts for the maximum time spent by people online, and users aged between 15 and 19 spend at least three hours per day on average using platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram- across the globe. And it is often found that social media users can’t go a few hours without checking different social media platforms before getting up in the morning. This addiction is termed as FOMO or Fear of Missing Out. Social Media is one of the most common forms of addiction afflicting the younger generation who spend too much time on social media. However, there is yet to be any official medical acknowledgment of this kind of addiction as a disorder. Mental health professionals are increasingly researching on internet addiction and they foresee this as a grave condition in the near future.

Social Media addiction becomes is a rising trend amongst the millennial and it is often observed that it prevents them from leading a normal life. It also leads them to depression, decreased self- esteem, eating disorder, a feeling of insecurity and a decrease in the level of concentration. Another associated problem is the rising cases of cyberbullying leading to suicides and other ailments.

Social media cannot be fully eradicated from our lives keeping in mind its benefits however certain steps can be taken to limit its usage among youngsters.

  • Regular exercising and meditating can strengthen muscles and boost a positive mood.
  • Spreading an awareness among children and youth about the harmful effects of overuse of social media
  • Parents and teachers should regularly monitor internet usage amongst children.
  • Schools can play an active role in advocating the safe use of internet among children
  • Parents should set up boundaries or put a limit on timings as to the use of social media

In these trying times, Branolia Chemicals have developed an ayurvedic tonic, Branolia infused with the goodness of herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Jastimadhu and some other herbs to enhance the overall functioning of the brain. Brahmi, the chief ingredient in the formulation of Branolia, is known to be used in the treatment of insomnia, epilepsy and attention deficit disorders.

The fight against social media can be won by trying to focus on the positive aspects instead of the negative and also by trying to reach out to communities for support.

 

Branolia Health

Herbal Carrot Cake

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Christmas is no fun without a good cake. The term Christmas cake was coined many years ago and various countries use different ingredients to bake a cake on Christmas.
We at Branolia Chemicals also join in the Christmas fun and cheer with our very own ‘Herbal Carrot Cake’. It is easy to bake and tastes good.

SERVES: 8-10
PREPARATION TIME: 45 mins
BAKING TIME: 40 mins

INGREDIENTS:

6 large, carrots peeled, cored and quartered lengthways
3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
40 g unsalted butter
80 g caster sugar
12 drops ginger juice
One small spoon of cinnamon powder
A pinch of clove powder
A small spoon of Nutmeg powder
Add one pinch of crushed Basil
A handful of roasted almonds peeled
165 g plain flour
30 g ground almond powder
1/2 tsp. salt
160 g unsalted butter
4 large eggs
170 g Maple syrup
3 tbsp. boiling water
1 1/2 tsp. bicarbonate of soda

METHOD:
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line the tin with nonstick baking paper.
2. Take the carrots mix with the lemon juice. In a large frying pan, melt the butter and sprinkle half the caster sugar. Put the carrots into the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes or until brown on one side then turn and cook for a further 5 minutes until the other side is brown. With a flat spatula carefully remove the pear quarters and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Add the Maple syrup and the rest of the caster sugar into the same pan and stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes syrupy. Add in ginger juice, cinnamon powder, clove powder, crushed basil,the roasted peeled almonds and nutmeg powder. Pour this syrup into the baking tin spread the syrup evenly over the bottom of the tin.
4. Start to arrange the carrots from one corner so that they cover the bottom of the tin and are facing the same direction. Set aside.
5. Mix together the flour and salt in a bowl. Also add the butter and sugar together for around 5 minutes on a medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time at a lower speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.
6. In a small bowl, add the boiling water to the bicarbonate of soda and add it to the flour mixture
7. Scrape the mixture into the tin on top of the arranged carrots and bake for 25 minutes at 175°C.
8. After 25 minutes reduce the oven temperature to 160°C and bake for 10 minutes more.
When done, the top should bounce back when lightly touched. Cool in the tin for 1 hour, and then loosen around the edges of the cake. Place a tray over the top of the tin and carefully but quickly turn upside down.

The cake is ready to eat.