C >> Cataract, Chicken pox, Cholera, Cirrhosis, Colitis,Common cold, Conjunctivitis, Constipation, Corns, Coronary heart disease, Cough, Cystitis
CATARACT
Cataract is a common eye disease. A cataract refers to an area of the lens of a person's eye that has become whitish and opaque instead of remaining clear. The result is that the person cannot see clearly.
The crystalline lens, through which light travels into the interior of the eye, is situated just behind the iris or coloured portion of the eye. In cataract, this lens becomes opaque, hence, seriously hampering the entrance of light into the eye. Blindness ensues when no light rays can permeate the opacity of the lens.
Causes and Symptoms
The first sign of cataract is blurred vision. The patient finds it difficult to see things in focus. As the disease progresses, the patient may get double vision or spots, or both. At first, vision in twilight may be better than in full daylight since light is admitted round the more widely-dilated pupil in the dark. In the advanced stage, objects and persons may appear as mere blobs of light, and there is a grayish-white discoloration in the pupil.
There are three factors which contribute to the loss of transparency of the lens. These are deterioration in the nutrition of the lens which diminishes the vitality and resistance of the delicate lens fibres; deposits of acids and salts between the lens
fibres which have an irritating effect on the lens tissues and exert an increasing pressure on its delicate fibres, gradually destroying them; and disintegration of lens fibres which cloud the entire lens in the absence of appropriate measures.
As in the case of most diseases, poisons in the blood stream due to dietetic errors and a faulty style of living, are the real cause of cataract. The toxic matter in the blood stream spreads throughout the body to find shelter in any available weak spot. It strikes the lens if it has become weak through strain, excessive use of the eyes, and local irritation. The condition becomes worse with the passage of time and then a cataract starts developing. Other causes of cataract are stress and strain; excessive intake of alcoholic drinks, sugar, and salt; smoking; certain physical ailments such as gastrointestinal or gall-bladder disturbances; diabetes; vitamin deficiencies; fatty acid intolerance; ageing; radiation; side-effects of drugs that have been prescribed for other diseases.
HOME REMEDIES
Carrot:
The use of carrots is considered beneficial in the treatment of cataract. The patient should take plenty of raw carrots daily. As an alternative, he may drink two glasses of fresh carrot juice, one each in the morning and evening.
Garlic:
The use of garlic is another effective home remedy for cataract. Two or three cloves should be eaten raw daily. They should be chewed slowly. Garlic helps to clean the crystalline lens of the eye.
Pumpkin:
The flowers of pumpkin are valuable in cataract The juice of these flowers should be extracted and applied externally on the eyelids twice daily. It will stop further clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye.
Aniseed:
Aniseed is considered a useful remedy for cataract An equal quantity of aniseed and coriander powder should be mixed with one teaspoon of brown sugar, and the mixture should be taken in doses of 12 gm in the morning and evening.
Honey:
The use of unprocessed pure honey is another effective remedy for cataract A few drops of this honey should be put in the eyes. This is an ancient Egyptian remedy which has benefitted many patients.
Almonds:
Almonds are valuable in cataract. Seven kernels should be ground finely with half a gram of pepper (kali mirch) in half a cup of water, and drunk after sweetening the mixture with a teaspoon of sugar candy. It helps the eyes to regain their vigour.
Nutrients:
Certain nutrients have also been found useful in cataract. Experiments have shown that animals develop cataract if deprived of pantothenic acid and amino acids, and tryptophane and vitamin B6 needed for tryptophane assimilation. The diet of the cataract patient should, therefore, be high in vitamins B2 and B6, as well as the entire B complex group, pantothenic acid, vitamins C,D, E and other nutrients.
Dietary Considerations
A thorough cleansing of the body is essential. To start with, it will be advisable to undertake a fast of orange juice and water for three days. After this initial fast, a diet of a very restricted nature should be followed for two weeks. Breakfast may consist of seasonal juicy fruits. Raw vegetable salads with olive oil and lemon juice dressing, and soaked raisins, figs, or dates should be taken during lunch. Evening meals should consist of steamed vegetables and a few nuts. Potatoes should be avoided. After two weeks of this diet, the cataract patient may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. The emphasis should be on fresh juicy fruits and raw vegetables.
The juice fast followed by the restricted diet should be repeated at an interval of three months. The patient should avoid white bread, sugar, cream, refined cereals, rice, boiled potatoes, puddings and pies, strong tea or coffee, alcoholic beverages, condiments, pickles, and sauces.
Other Measures
A warn-water enema should be given daily during the juice fast An Epsom salts bath is beneficial and should be taken twice a week. The patient should remain in the bath from twenty-five to thirty-five minutes till he perspires freely. After the bath, he should cool off gradually. Eyes should be closed and bathed externally, at least, twice daily with hot water containing Epsom salts.
Eye exercises aimed at relaxing and strengthening of the eyes are also valuable in cataract The details about these exercises as well as the procedure for palming have been explained in the chapter on Conjunctivitis.
Fresh air and gentle outdoor exercise, such as walking, are other essentials. Exposure to heat and bright light should be avoided.
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CHICKEN POX (Viral Fever with Rash)
Chicken pox is a highly contagious disease, occurring usually in children. It usually affects children of three to four years of age. In most cases, the older the child, the more severe the attack.
Causes and Symptoms
Chicken pox usually begins with a low grade fever, a mild headache and a feeling of weakness. A rash appears on the skin on the first day of the disease. This is in the form of tiny red spots on the skin, mostly on the upper back of chest. In more severe cases, a rash may appear on the face and lower extremities. The papules turn into blisters and finally become pustules and form scabs, which falloff. They come in successive crops, so that while some are drying, others are beginning to form. The skin clears after a few days and the child feels well again. The duration of this disease ranges from ten to twenty-one days but is usually between fourteen and seventeen days.
Chicken pox is caused by a virus. Many researchers believe that the disease is closely related to a much more serious condition known as shingles or herpes zoster that affects adults. The basic cause of the disease, as in most cases of childhood fevers, "is however, persistent wrong feeding of children, which results in diminished defence mechanisms of the body.
HOME Remedies
Brown Vinegar: The use of brown vinegar is one of the most important among the several home remedies found beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. Half a cup of this vinegar should be added to a bath of warm water. This will relieve the irritation of the skin.
Oatmeal:
A bath of oatmeal is considered a natural remedy for relieving the itch due to chicken pox. This bath is prepared by cooking two cups of oatmeal in two litres of water for fifteen minutes. This mixture is then put into a cloth bag, preferably cotton, and a string is tied tightly around the top. This bag is allowed to float in a tub of warm water, and swished around until the water becomes turbid. Precaution should be taken to ensure that the bag is not tom. The child with chicken pox can splash and play in the water, making sure that water goes over all the scalds, while the pouch of oatmeal can remain in the tub.
Pea Water:
Green pea water is another effective remedy for relieving irritation of the skin. The water in which fresh peas have been cooked can be used for this purpose.
Baking Soda:
Baking soda is a popular remedy to control the itching in chicken pox. Some baking soda should be put in a glass of water. The child should be sponged with this water. so that the soda dries on the skin. This will keep the child away from scratching the eruptions.
Vitamin E Oil:
The use of vitamin E oil is valuable in chicken pox. This oil should be rubbed on the skin. It will have a healing effect The marks left by chicken pox will fade away by this application.
Honey:
The use of honey as an external application has also proved valuable in chicken pox. The skin should be smeared with honey. It will help in the healing of the disease within three days.
Carrot and Coriander:
A soup prepared from carrots and coriander has been found beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. About 100 gm of carrots and 60 gm of fresh coriander should be cut into small pieces and boiled for a while. The residue should be discarded. This soup should be taken once a day.
Herbal Tea:
A mild sedative herbal tea can also prove beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. This tea can be prepared from any of the herbs like chamomile (babunah), basil (tulsi), marigold (zergul and lemon balm (billilotan). A little cinnamon (dalchini), honey, and lemon may be added to this tea. It should be sipped slowly several times a day.
Dietary Considerations
To begin with, the patient should be put on a juice diet for a few days. He should be given plenty of raw fruit and vegetable juices. Lemon juice is considered to be especially beneficial. As the condition improves, the patient can be placed on an all-fruit diet for the next few days. Thereafter, he may be allowed to gradually adopt a well-balanced diet., with emphasis on fresh fruits and raw vegetables.
Other Measures
A small warm-water enema should be administered daily during the initial juice fast to cleanse the bowels. The patient should be kept in a well-ventilated room. As light has a detrimental effect upon the eyes during an attack of chicken pox because of the weakened condition of the external eye tissues, the patient should shade his eyes from the direct light or the room should have subdued light.
Application of mud packs on the abdomen twice a day, in the morning and evening, and repeated applications of chest packs will be beneficial. Lukewarm water baths can be given every day to relieve itching. For better results, neem leaves can be added to this water. The nails of the child should be kept clipped to prevent him from scratching, otherwise, germs on the skin may be scratched into the blisters, causing more severe infection.
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CHOLERA
Cholera is one of the most severe diseases of the intestines. It is a serious infection involving the lower part of the small bowel. It is a water-borne disease and is common during the monsoon. The mortality rate for this disease has been quite high.
Causes and Symptoms
The first sign of cholera may be mild diarrhoea. This is followed by sudden violent purging. The stools are loose, watery, and grayish-brown in colour. Diarrhoea is usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The patient gets severe cramps in the stomach, and feels very thirsty and restless. The temperature rises, but the skin is generally cold and clammy and the pulse is weak. In the next stage, the body becomes colder; the skin dry, wrinkled, and purple; the voice weak and husky; and the urine, scanty and dark. The blood pressure falls, the cramps are agonizing, and signs of collapse appear rapidly. Cholera is caused by a germ known as Vibrio cholerae. This germ produces a powerful poison or endotoxin. The disease is spread by flies and water contaminated by the germs.
HOME REMEDIES
Lemon:
The foremost among the many home remedies for cholera is the use of lemon. The juice of this fruit can kill cholera bacilli within a very short time. It is also a very effective and reliable preventive against cholera during an epidemic. It can be taken in the form of a sweetened or salted beverage for this purpose. Taking of lemon with food as a daily routine can also prevent cholera.
Guava Root Bark:
The root bark of guava is rich in tannins and it can be successfully employed as a concentrated decoction in cholera. It arrests vomiting and symptoms of diarrhoea. About thirty grams of the root bark should be used in half a litre of water to make the decoction. The water should be boiled down to reduce it by one-third. This decoction can be taken twice daily.
Onion:
Onions are another valuable remedy for cholera. About thirty grams of this vegetable and seven black peppers should be pounded finely in a pestle and given to the patient in two or three doses during the day. Onions allay thirst and restlessness and the patient feels better.
Bitter Gourd:
The fresh juice of bitter gourd is an effective medicine in the early stages of cholera. Two teaspoons of this juice, mixed with an equal quantity of white onion juice and a teaspoon of lime juice, should be given twice daily in the treatment of this condition.
Drumstick Leaves:
The leaves of the drumstick tree are also useful in this disease. A teaspoon of fresh leaf juice, mixed with one teaspoon of honey and a glass of tender coconut water, can be given two or three times a day as a herbal medicine in the treatment of cholera.
Cucumber:
A glass of fresh juice of cucumber leaves with an equal quantity of tender coconut water, given in doses of 30-60 ml, forms a valuable remedy for excessive thirst during cholera. It acts excellently by restoring the acid-base balance in dehydration.
Nutmeg:
The herb nutmeg is a valuable remedy for dehydration caused by cholera. An infusion made by steeping half a nutmeg in half a litre of water should be given along with half a litre of tender coconut water in doses of 15 ml at a time in treating this condition.
Clove:
Cloves are useful in cholera. About four grams of this spice should be boiled in three litres of water until half of the water has evaporated. The decoction thus prepared should be given to the patient several times during the day. This will reduce the severe symptoms.
Rough Chaff:
The powdered root of rough chaff, botanically known as Achyranthes aspera, is also helpful in cholera. About six grams of the powder should be thoroughly mixed with half a cup of water and given to the patient once daily.
Dietary Considerations
The patient should not be given solid food till he has fully recovered from cholera. Liquid bland foods will be easily digested by the patient. Lemon, onions, vinegar, and mint should be included in the daily diet during an epidemic of cholera. All uncooked vegetables should be avoided.
Other Measures
Cholera can be controlled only by rigid purification of water supply and proper disposal of human excreta. In case there is a slightest doubt about contamination of water, it must be boiled before use for drinking and cooking purposes. All foodstuffs must be kept covered, and vegetables and fruits washed with a solution of potassium permanganate before consumption. Those handling food should wash their hands well before starting to cook. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CIRRHOSIS (Hardening of the Liver)
Cirrhosis of the liver is characterised by a significant loss of cells, so that the liver gradually contracts in size and becomes hard and leathery.
Causes and Symptoms
In the early stages of the disease, there may be nothing more than frequent attacks of indigestion, with occasional nausea and vomiting. There may also be some abdominal pain and loss of weight. In the advanced stage, the patient develops a low grade fever. He has a foul breath, a jaundiced skin and distended veins in the abdomen. Reddish hair like markings, resembling small spiders, may appear on the face, neck, arms, and trunk. The abdomen becomes bloated and swollen, the mind gets clouded, and there may be considerable bleeding from the stomach.
Excessive use of alcohol over a long period is the most potent cause of cirrhosis of the liver in adults. The disease can progress to the final stage of hepatic failure if the person does not abstain from alcohol. Poor nutrition can be another causative factor in the development of cirrhosis and a chronic alcoholic usually suffers from severe malnutrition. Cirrhosis may also result from a highly toxic condition of the system in general.
Home Remedies
Papaya Seeds:
The black seeds of papaya have been found beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, caused by alcoholism and malnutrition. A tablespoon of juice obtained by grinding the seeds, mixed with ten drops of fresh lime juice, should be given once or twice daily for about :I. month as a medicine for this disease.
Trailing Eclipta:
The herb trailing eclipta, botanically known as Eclipta alba, has proved invaluable in cirrhosis of the liver. The juice of all parts of this plant should be taken in doses of one teaspoon, mixed with one teaspoon of honey, three times daily.
Picrorhiza:
Picrorhiza, botanically known as Picrorhiza kurroa. is a drug of choice in Ayurveda for cirrhosis of the liver among adults. The root of the herb is given in powdered form. A tablespoon of the powder, mixed with an equal quantity of honey, should be administered thrice daily. In case of accompanying constipation, the dose should be increased to double and should be given with a cup of warm water, three to four times a day. It stimulates the liver to produce more bile, the excretion of which relieves congestion of the liver and the tissues.
Vegetable Juices:
The juice of carrots, in combination with spinach juice, has been found beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver. Spinach juice-200 ml, should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice to prepare 500 ml or half a litre of combined juices. Alternatively 300 ml of carrot juice, combined with 100 ml each of cucumber and beet juices can be used effectively.
Dietary Considerations
The patient must abstain from alcohol in any form. He should undergo an initial liver-cleaning programme by going on a juice fast for seven days. Freshly extracted juices from red beets, lemon, papaya, and grapes may be taken during this period. This may be followed by a fruit and milk diet for two to three weeks. In this regimen, the patient should have three meals a day of fresh juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grapefruit, oranges, pineapples, and peaches, and a litre of milk divided into three parts, each part to be taken with each fruit meal. The milk should be gradually increased by 250 ml daily and go up to two litres a day. It should be fresh and slightly warmed, if desired. It should be sipped very slowly.
After the fruit and milk diet, the patient should embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits with emphasis on raw, organically-grown foods. Vegetables such as beets, squashes, bitter gourd, egg-plant, tomatoes, carrots, radishes, and papaya are especially useful in this condition.
All fats and oils should be excluded from the diet for several weeks. The patient should avoid all refined, processed, and canned foods; spices and condiments; strong tea and coffee; fried foods; all preparations cooked in ghee, oil, or butter; all meats; and all chemical additives in food. The use of salt should be restricted.
Other Measures
The patient should be kept in bed. A warm-water enema should be used daily to cleanse the bowels during the juice fast and thereafter, if necessary. Application of hot and cold compresses,for two to three minutes each, on the liver area are beneficial. The morning dry friction, breathing and other exercises should form a regular daily feature of the treatment. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
COLITIS (Inflammation of the Colon)
Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon. The disease results from prolonged irritation and inflammation of the delicate membrane which lines the walls of the colon. Chronic ulcerative colitis is a severe prolonged inflammation of the colon or large bowel, in which ulcers form on the walls of the colon.
Causes and Symptoms
Colitis usually begins in the lower part of the colon and spreads upwards. The first symptom of the trouble is an increased urgency to move the bowel, followed by cramping pains in the abdomen and, sometimes, bloody mucus in the stools. As the disease spreads upward, the stools become watery and more frequent and are characterised by rectal straining. The loss of blood and fluid from the bowels results in weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and anemia. Other symptoms are a bloated feeling, constipation alternating with diarrhoea or persistent diarrhoea for years together, and insomnia. The patient is usually malnourished and may be severely underweight.
One of the causes of colitis is chronic constipation and the use of purgatives. Constipation causes an accumulation of the hard faecal matter which is never properly evacuated. Purgatives used as a 'cure' only increase irritation. Often colitis results from poorly digested roughage, especially of cereals and carbohydrates, which causes bowel irritation. Other causes of the disease are an allergic sensitivity to certain' foods, intake of antibiotics and severe stress.
Home Remedies
Banana:
One or two ripe bananas taken every day are one of the most effective home remedies for ulcerative colitis. Being bland, smooth, easily-digestible and slightly laxative, they relieve the acute symptoms and promote the healing process.
Buttermilk:
A glass of butte milk taken daily is another effective remedy for colitis. It is the residual liquid left over after the fat has been removed from curd by churning.
Tender Coconut:
Drinking the water of one tender coconut daily has been found. valuable in colitis. It is soothing to the soft mucosa of the colon.
Apples:
Steamed apples also aid the healing of ulcerative lesions because of their ample concentration of iron and phosphorus.
Drumstick:
Drumsticks are also useful in colitis. A teaspoon of fresh leaf juice, mixed with an equal quantity of honey and a glass of tender coconut water, is given two or three times daily as a herbal medicine for the treatment of this disease.
Rice:
Rice has a very low fibre content., and is, therefore, extremely soothing in colitis. A thick gruel of rice mixed with a glass of buttermilk and a ripe banana, given twice a day, forms a very nutritious, well-balanced diet in this disease.
Wheat-grass:
The juice of wheat-grass (a grass which grows after sowing wheat grains in the earth) used as an enema, helps detoxify the walls of the colon. The general procedure is to first give an enema with lukewarm water. After waiting for twenty minutes, 90-120 ml of wheat-grass juice enema is given. This should be retained for fifteen minutes. This enema is very helpful in disorders associated with colitis. Wheat-grass can be grown at home in earthen pots if it is not available through dealers.
Dietary Considerations
Diet plays an important part in the treatment of colitis. It is advisable to observe a juice fast for five days or so, in most cases of ulcerative colitis. Papaya juice, raw cabbage juice, and carrot juice are especially beneficial. Citrus juices should be avoided.
After the juice fast the patient should gradually adopt a diet of small, frequent meals of soft cooked or steamed vegetables, rice, porridge, dalia, and well-ripened fruits like banana and papaya, yoghurt, and home-made cottage cheese. Sprouted seeds and grains, whole meal bread, and raw vegetables may be added gradually to this diet after about ten days. All food must be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly.
Foods which should be excluded from the diet are white sugar, white bread, and white flour products; highly seasoned foods highly salted foods; strong tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages; and foods cooked in aluminum pans.
Other Measures
During the first five days of the juice fast, the bowels should be cleansed daily with a warm-water enema. A buttermilk enema taken twice a week is also soothing and helps in re-installing useful bacterial flora in the colon.
Complete bed rest is very important The patient should eliminate all causes of tension and face his discomfort with patience.
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COMMON COLD (Viral Throat Infection)
A common cold, also known as acute coryza, is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by infection with common cold viruses. A common cold occurs more often than any other disease - hence, its name. A person may suffer from a common cold several times in a year. A cold usually lasts from three to ten days. The patient feels miserable for the first three days or so.
Causes and Symptoms
The initial signs of a cold are a feeling of soreness of the throat and congestion of the nasal passages. Although the disease normally begins in the nose and throat, it affects all parts of the body. Its usual symptoms are a running nose, sneezing, a rise in temperature, headache, sore throat, chill, aches and pains in the body, and loss of appetite. The skin around the nostrils may become sore.
A common cold results from exposure to the virus. Its intensity, however, depends upon the state of health of the person and environmental factors. Low vitality, exposure to cold, lack of sleep, mental depression, fatigue, and factors such as sudden changes in temperature, dust, and other irritating inhalations are important contributory causes.
Home Remedies
Lemon:
Lemon is the most important among the many home remedies for common cold. It is beneficial in all types of cold with fever. Vitamin C-rich lemon juice increases body resistance, decreases toxicity and reduces the duration of the illness. One lemon should be diluted in a glass of warm water, and a teaspoon of honey should be added to it. This should be taken once or twice daily.
Garlic:
Garlic soup is an old remedy to reduce the severity of a cold, and should be taken once daily. The soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water. Garlic contains antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, besides several other medicinal virtues. The oil contained in this vegetable helps to open up the respiratory passages. In soup form, it flushes out all toxins from the system and thus helps bring down fever. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day. This has also been found to be very effective in the treatment of common cold.
Ginger:
Ginger is another excellent remedy for colds and coughs. About ten grams of ginger should be cut into small pieces and boiled in a cup of water. It should then be strained and half a teaspoon of sugar added to it. This decoction should be drunk when hot. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is also an effective remedy for colds and for fevers resulting from cold. It may be taken twice daily.
Lady's Fingers:
Lady's fingers are highly valuable in treating irritation of the throat and a persistent dry cough. This vegetable is rich in mucilage and acts as a drug to allay irritation, swelling, and pain. About 100 gm of Lady’s fingers should be cut into pieces, and boiled down in half a litre of water to make a decoction. The steam issuing from this decoction may also be inhaled once or twice a day to relieve throat irritation and a dry cough.
Bitter Gourd Roots:
The roots of the bitter gourd plant are used in folk medicine to cure a cold. A teaspoon of the root paste, mixed with an equal quantity of honey or tulsi leaf juice, given once every night for a month, acts as an excellent medicine for colds.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is an effective remedy for cold~ and throat irritations. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk, and taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for these conditions. Turmeric powder should be put into a hot ladle. Milk should then be poured in it and boiled over a slow fire. This mixture should then be drunk by the patient. In case of a running cold, smoke from the burning turmeric should be inhaled. It will increase the discharge from the nose and provide quick relief.
Tamarind and Pepper:
Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold in South India. Dilute 50 mg tamarind in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind water for a few minutes with a teaspoon of hot ghee and half a teaspoon of black pepper powder. This steaming hot rasam has a flushing effect, and should be taken three times a day. As one takes it, the nose and eyes water and the nasal blockage is cleared.
Vitamin C:
The regular intake of vitamin C-75 mg for adults and 35 mg for children-will prevent the common cold. If, however, a cold has already appeared, large doses of this vitamin will relieve the symptoms and shorten its duration. He estimates that one to two grams (1000 mg to 2000 mg) per day is approximately the optimum amount of this vitamin for this purpose. His advice is to swallow one or two 500 mg tablets of vitamin C at the appearance of the first sign of the cold and continue the treatment by taking one to two 500 mg tablets daily.
Dietary Considerations
During the acute stage of the cold, when fever is present, the patient should abstain from all solid foods and only drink fruit and vegetable juices, diluted with water. After the acute symptoms are over, the patient can gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is advisable to avoid meat, fish, eggs, cheese, and starchy foods.
Other Measures
Other useful measures in the treatment of a common cold are a mild sunbath, fresh air and deep breathing, brisk walks, sound sleep, and adjustment of one's clothes and habits to the requirements of the season so as to nullify the effect of weather fluctuations.
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CONJUNCTIVITIS (Redness of the eye)
Conjunctivitis refers to an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane covering the front of the eye. This is also referred to as having 'sore eyes' and is a very common form of eye trouble. It spreads from person to person through direct contact Overcrowding, dirty surroundings and unhealthy living conditions can cause epidemics of this ailment
Causes and Symptoms
The eyeball and underside of the eyelids become inflammed. At first, the eyes are red and itchy. Later, there may be a watery secretion. In more serious cases, there is pus formation, which dries up during sleep, making the lashes stick together.
Conjunctivitis results from bacterial or a virus infection or eyestrain. Prolonged work under artificial light and excessive use of the eyes in one way or the other, no doubt, contribute towards the disease. But its real cause can be traced to a catarrhal condition of the system resulting from general toxaemia due to dietetic errors, and a faulty style of living. The patient generally suffers from colds or other ailments indicative of a general catarrhal condition.
Home Remedies
A doctor must be consulted before any recommended home remedies are used directly for the eyes.
Vegetable Juices:
Raw juices of certain vegetables, especially carrots and spinach, have been found valuable in conjunctivitis. The combined juices of these two vegetables have proved very effective. In this combination, 200 ml of spinach juice should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice. Raw parsley (prajmoda) juice-200 ml, mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice has also been found beneficial in the treatment of this disease.
Indian Gooseberry:
The juice of the Indian gooseberry, mixed with honey, is useful in conjunctivitis. A cup of this juice should be taken mixed with two teaspoons of honey twice daily in treating this condition.
Vitamins:
Vitamins A and B2 have proved useful in conjunctivitis. The patient should take liberal quantities of natural foods rich in these two vitamins. Foods rich in vitamin A are whole milk, curds, butter, carrots, pumpkin, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, mangoes, and papaya. Foods rich in vitamin B2 are green leafy vegetables, milk, almonds, citrus fruits, bananas, and tomatoes.
Coriander:
A decoction prepared with a handful of dried coriander in 60 ml of water is an excellent eye-wash in conjunctivitis. It is said to relieve burning and reduces pain and swelling. This decoction should, however, be sparingly used by persons suffering from bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Dietary Considerations
The best way to commence treatment for conjunctivitis is to adopt an exclusive fresh fruit diet for a week. In this regimen, the three meals a day should consist of fresh, juicy seasonal fruits. Bananas should, however, not be taken. Those with acute conjunctivitis should undertake a juice fast for three or four days. The short juice fast may be followed by an all-fruit diet for a further 'seven days. Thereafter, the patient may adopt a restricted diet, consisting of fresh fruits, raw mixed-vegetable salad, whole meal bread or chapatis and steamed vegetables, and nuts.
The patient should avoid an excessive intake of starchy and sugary foods in the form of white bread, refined cereals, potatoes, puddings, sugar, jams, confectionery, meats, fatty foods, strong tea and coffee, too much salt, condiments, and sauces which cause a general catarrhal condition as well as conjunctivitis.
Other Measures
Those taking a juice fast for the first three or four days of the treatment should take a warm-water enema daily during the fast
A cold water fomentation of the eyes provides almost immediate relief. The procedure is to fold a small hand towel, saturate it with cold water, squeeze out excess water and place the towel gently over both the eyes. It should be covered with a piece of warm cloth to retain the temperature. The process should be repeated as soon as the foment becomes warm. Fomentation should be done for an hour. The eyes should then be covered with a dry towel, and the patient should lie back and relax. The damaged eye tissues will quickly return to normal. This treatment should be repeated every night for a week, even though the problem may clear up with the first treatment itself.
The patient should also adopt various methods of relaxing and strengthening the eyes. These include moving the eyes gently up and down, from side to side and in a circle - clockwise and anticlockwise; rotating the neck in circles and semicircles; and briskly moving the shoulders clockwise and anticlockwise. Palming is highly beneficial in removing strain and relaxing the eyes and its surrounding tissues. The procedure is as follows; sit in a comfortable position and relax with your eyes closed. Cover the eyes with the palms, right palm over the right eye and the left over the left eye. Do not press on the eye balls. Then allow your elbows to drop to your knees, which should be fairly close together.
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CONSTIPATION
Constipation is a common disturbance of the digestive tract In this condition, the bowels do not move regularly, or are not completely emptied when they move. This condition is the chief cause of many diseases as it produces toxins which find their way into the bloodstream and are carried to all parts of the body. Appendicitis, rheumatism, arthritis, high blood pressure, cataract, and cancer are only a few of the diseases in which chronic constipation is an important predisposing factor.
Causes and Symptoms
The most common symptoms of constipation are infrequency, irregularity or difficulty in elimination of the hard faecal matter.
The other symptoms include a coated tongue, foul breath, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, dark circles under the eyes, depression, nausea, pimples on the face, ulcer in the mouth, constant fullness in the abdomen, diarrhoea alternating with constipation, varicose veins, pain in the lumbar region, acidity, heart bum, and insomnia.
The most" important causes of chronic constipation are a faulty diet and style of living. Intake of refined and rich foods lacking in vitamins and minerals, insufficient intake of water, consumption of meat in large quantities, excessive use of strong tea and coffee, insufficient chewing, overeating and wrong combination of foods, irregular habits of eating and drinking may all contribute to poor bowel function. Other causes include faulty and irregular habit of defecation, frequent use of purgatives, weakness of abdominal muscles due to sedentary habits, lack of physical activity, and emotional stress and strain.
Home Remedies
Bael Fruit:
Generally all fruits, except banana and jack fruit, are beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Certain fruits are, however, more effective. Bael fruit is regarded as the best of all laxatives. It cleans and tones up the intestines. Its regular use for two or three months throws out even the old accumulated faecal matter. It should be preferably taken in its original form and before dinner. About sixty grams of the fruit are sufficient for an adult
Pear:
Pears are beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Patients suffering from chronic constipation should adopt an exclusive diet of this fruit or its juice for a few days, but in ordinary cases, a medium-sized pear taken after dinner or with breakfast will have the desired effect.
Guava:
Guava is another effective remedy for constipation. When eaten with seeds, it provides roughage to the diet and helps in the normal evacuation of the bowels. One or two guavas should be taken everyday.
Grapes:
Grapes have proved very beneficial in overcoming constipation. The combination of the properties of the cellulose, sugar, and organic acid in grapes make them a laxative food. Their field of action is not limited to clearing the bowels only. They also tone up the stomach and intestines and relieve the most chronic constipation. One should take at least 350 gm of this fruit daily to achieve the desired results. When fresh grapes are not available, raisins, soaked in water, can be used. Raisins should be soaked for twenty-four to forty-eight hours. This will make them swell to the original size of the grapes. They should be eaten early in the morning, along with the water in which they have been soaked.
Orange:
Orange is also beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Taking one or two oranges at bedtime and again on rising in the morning is an excellent way of stimulating the bowels. The general stimulating influence of orange juice excites peristaltic activity and helps prevent the accumulation of food residue in the colon.
Papaya and Figs:
Other fruits specific for constipation are papaya and figs. Half a medium-sized papaya should be eaten at breakfast for it to act as a laxative. Both fresh and dry figs have a laxative effect. Four or five dry figs should be soaked overnight in a little water and eaten in the morning.
Spinach:
Among the vegetables, spinach has been consi¬dered to be the most vital food for the entire digestive tract from time immemorial. Raw spinach contains the finest organic material for the cleansing, reconstruction, and regeneration of the intestinal tract. Raw spinach juice 100 ml, mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken twice daily, will cure the most aggravated cases of constipation within a few days.
Other Remedies:
Half a lime, squeezed is a glass of hot water, with half a teaspoon of salt is also an effective remedy for constipation. Drinking water which has been kept overnight in a copper vessel, first thing in the morning, brings good results. Linseed (alse) is extremely useful in difficult cases of constipation. A teaspoon of linseed swallowed with water before each meal provides both roughage and lubrication.
Dietary Considerations
The most important factor in curing constipation is a natural and simple diet. This should consist of unrefined foods such as wholegrain cereals, bran, honey, lentils, green and leafy vege¬tables, fresh and dry fruits, and milk products in the form of butter, ghee, and cream. The diet alone is not enough. Food should be properly chewed. Hurried meals and meals at odd times should be avoided. Sugar and sugary foods should be strictly avoided. Foods which constipate are all products made of white flour, rice, bread, pulses, cakes, pastries, biscuits, cheese, fleshy foods, preserves, white sugar, and hard-boiled eggs.
Other Measures
Toning up the muscles also helps in the treatment of constipation. Fresh air, outdoor games, walking, swimming, and exercise play an important role in strengthening the muscles, and thereby preventing constipation. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CORNS ( Local Thickening of the Skin)
A corn refers to a localized thickening of the skin, especially on the toes, and extending into subcutaneous tissue. A corn is usually small but painful.
Causes and Symptoms
Corns are usually found over the joints of the toes and on the soles of the feet. They are shaped like a pyramid with the apex pointing inwards. They are tender when touched. Sometimes painful and infective warts that occur on the soles of the feet are mistaken for corns.
Corns are usually formed as a result of pressure on the toes and skin surfaces of the feet through incorrect footwear.
Home Remedies
Liquorice:
Liquorice is one of the most valuable remedies for corns that are just appearing. A paste made by grinding three' or four liquorice sticks and mixing it with half a teaspoon of sesame oil or mustard oil should be rubbed into the hardened skin at bedtime. The skin gradually softens and the com decreases in size.
Lemon:
Lemon is another valuable remedy for corns. A fresh slice of lemon should be tied over the painful area at night and allowed to remain there the whole night
Papaya:
Raw papaya is beneficial in the treatment of corns. Its juice is an irritant and it is, therefore, a useful application in this condition. Half a teaspoon of raw papaya juice may be applied thrice daily.
Indian Squill:
The herb Indian squill, botanically known as Urginea indica, is useful in removing corns. A bulb may be roasted and applied over the com. It should be secured with a bandage. This application may be made at night and removed in the morning.
Green Figs:
The milky juice of green figs is valuable for corns of long duration. It helps to soften them. Half a teaspoon of this juice may be extracted from the fruit and applied two or three times daily.
Chalk Powder:
Chalk powder has also been found bene¬ficial in the treatment of corns. A small piece of chalk may be ground into a paste with water and applied over the affected area.
Dietary Considerations
A light nutritious diet containing vitamins and minerals in the form of fruits and vegetables is recommended.
Other Measures
For proper treatment of a com, it is essential to first stop wearing the shoes that caused it In most cases the com will disappear when the pressure is removed. Medicinal com-removing plasters, known as corn caps, are easily available with chemists. They are found to be effective.
For soft corns, which usually occur between the toes, the feet should be washed daily. This should be followed by the application of a mild talcum powder.
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CORONARY HEART DISEASE
The term coronary heart disease covers a group of clinical syndromes arising particularly from failure of the coronary arteries to supply sufficient blood to the heart They include angina pectoris, coronary thrombosis or heart attack, and sudden death without infarction.
Causes and Symptoms
A common symptom of heart disease is shortness of breath, which is caused by the blood being deprived of the proper amount of oxygen. Another common symptom is chest pain or pain down either arm. Other symptoms are palpitations, fainting, emotional instability, cold hands and feet, frequent perspiration, and fatigue.
The basic causes of heart disease are wrong feeding habits, faulty style of living and various stresses. The famous Framingham Heart Study! of the National Heart and Lung Institute in Massachusetts, identified seven major risk factors in coronary heart disease. These are: (1) elevated blood levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fatty substances; (2) elevated blood pressure (3) elevated blood uric acid levels (mainly caused by high protein diet); (4) certain metabolic disorders, notably diabetes; (5) obesity; (6) smoking; and (7) lack of physical exercise. Each or a combination of these risk factors can contribute to heart disease. Most of them are of dietary origin. Constant worry and tension stimulate the adrenal glands to produce more adrenaline and cortisone. This also contributes to constricted arteries, high blood pressure and increased work for the heart.
Home Remedies
Grapes:
Fresh fruits in general are beneficial in the treatment of heart disease. They tone up the heart Grapes are especially effective in heart pain and palpitation of the heart, and the disease can be rapidly controlled if the patient adopts an exclusive diet of grapes for a few days. Grape juice is particularly valuable when one is actually suffering from a heart attack.
Apple:
Apples have heart-stimulating properties. Patients suffering from a weak heart will benefit greatly by making liberal use of this fruit and apple jam.
Indian Gooseberry:
Indian gooseberry is considered an effective home remedy for heart disease. It tones up the functions of all the organs of the body, and builds up health by destroying the heterogenous elements and renewing lost energy. When the fruit is in season, one medium-sized Indian gooseberry can be taken with a little salt daily; when not in season, dry pieces can be chewed.
Onion: Onions have been found valuable in heart disease. They are useful in normalising the percentage of blood cholesterol by oxidising excess cholesterol. One teaspoon of raw onion juice first thing in the morning is beneficial in such cases.
Honey:
Honey has got marvellous properties to prevent all sorts of heart disease. It tones up the heart and improves the circulation. It is also effective in cardiac pain and palpitation of the heart. One tablespoon daily after food is sufficient to prevent all sorts of heart troubles.
Asparagus:
Asparagus is an excellent food for strengthening the heart. A good medicine for a weak or an enlarged heart is prepared by mixing the freshly extracted juice of this vegetable with honey, in the ratio of 2: I. A teaspoon of this medicine should be taken three times daily. Patients with heart disease will also benefit by steam cooking this vegetable.
Alfalfa:
The herb alfalfa in the form of juice has been found very helpful in most troubles related to the arteries and heart diseases. Only the leaves of the plant are used for this purpose, when they can be obtained fresh. The juice of fresh alfalfa is, however, too strong and potent to be taken by itself. It is best taken with carrot juice in equal quantities of 125 ml each, twice daily. In this combination, the individual benefits of each juice are intensified.
Safflower:
Safflower oil has proved beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol. Hence it can be used liberally with persons suffering from cardiovascular disorders. An emulsion with the trade name Saffioxin-Cipla is used routinely during myocardial infarction, cardiac ischaemia, and hypertension.
Vitamin E:
Patients with heart disease should increase their intake of foods rich in vitamin E, as this vitamin is said to promote heart function by improving oxygenation of the cells. It also improves the circulation and muscle strength. Many whole meal products and green vegetables, particularly outer leaves of cabbage, are good sources of vitamin E.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is also essential as it protects against spontaneous breaches in capillary walls which can lead to heart attacks. It also guards against high blood cholesterol. The stress of anger, fear, disappointment, and similar emotions can raise blood fat and cholesterol levels immediately but this reaction to stress can do little harm if the diet is adequate in vitamin C and pantothenic acid. One of the richest sources of vitamin C is citrus fruits.
Dietary Considerations
The fundamental conditioning factor in all heart diseases is the diet, which should be lacto-vegetarian, and low on sodium and calories. It should consist of high quality, natural organic foods, with emphasis on whole grains, seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Foods which should be eliminated from the diet include white flour products, sweets, chocolates, canned foods in syrup, soft drinks, squashes, tea, coffee, alcohol, and tobacco, and all solid fats of animal origin such as butter, cream, and fatty meats. Salt and sugar should be reduced substantially.
Other Measures
The patient should also pay attention to other laws of nature for health building such as taking moderate exercise, getting proper rest and sleep, and adopting a positive mental attitude.
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COUGH
The air passages of the lungs are lined with cells secreting mucus, which normally traps particles of dust. When the membranes get infected and inflamed, the secretion of mucus increases and the lining of the air passages is irritated. Coughing is the action by which excess mucus is driven out.
Causes and Symptoms
A person who is going to cough first draws a deep breath in. This action causes his glottis to close and his muscles to contract, thus building up pressure in the chest Then suddenly, the glottis opens, an explosive discharge of air sweeps through the air passages and carries with it the excess secretions or, in some cases, foreign matter, which has irritated the larynx, trachea, or bronchi.
A cough may be caused by inflammation of the larynx or the pharynx. A cough can develop in the chest due to change in weather or seasonal changes. The real cause of this disorder, however, is clogging of the bronchial tubes with waste matter. This is due to wrong feeding habits. The reason for higher incidence of cough during winter than in other seasons is that an average person usually eats more of catarrh-forming foods such as white bread, meat, sugar, porridge, puddings, and pies during the colder months of the year. Being over clothed with heavy undergarments and other garments during this period also prevents proper aeration of the skin.
Home Remedies
Grapes:
Grapes are one of the most effective home remedies for the treatment of a cough. Grapes tone up the lungs and act as an expectorant, relieving a simple cold and cough in a couple of days. A cup of grape juice mixed with a teaspoon of honey is advised for cough relief.
Almonds:
Almonds are useful for dry coughs. Seven kernels should be soaked in water overnight and the brown skin removed. They should then be ground well to form a fine paste. A quantity of twenty grams each of butter and sugar should then be added to the paste. This paste should be taken in the morning and evening.
Onion:
The use of raw onion is valuable in a cough. This vegetable should be chopped fine and the juice extracted from it One teaspoon of the juice should then be mixed with one teaspoon of honey and kept for four or five hours-it will make an excellent cough syrup and should be taken twice daily. Onions are also useful in removing phelgm. A medium-sized onion should be crushed, the juice of one lemon added to it, and then one cup of boiling water poured on it. A teaspoon of honey can be added for taste. This remedy should be taken two or three times a day.
Turmeric:
The root of the turmeric plant is useful in a dry cough. The root should be roasted and powdered. This powder should be taken in three gram doses twice daily, in the morning and evening.
Belleric Myroblan:
The herb belleric myroblan is a household remedy for a cough. A mixture comprising two grams of the pulp of the fruit, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1{2 teaspoon of long pepper, and 2 teaspoons of honey should be administered for the treatment of this condition twice daily. The dried fruit covered with wheat flour and roasted, is another popular remedy for cough condition.
Raisins:
A sauce prepared from raisins is also useful in a cough. This sauce is prepared by grinding 100 gm of raisins with water. About 100 gm of sugar should be mixed with it and the mixture heated. When the mixture acquires a sauce-like consistency, it should be preserved. Twenty grams should be taken at bed time daily.
Aniseed:
Aniseed is another effective remedy for a hard dry cough with difficult expectoration. It breaks up the mucus. A tea made from this spice should be taken regularly for treating this condition.
Dietary Considerations
In the case of a severe cough, the patient should fast on orange juice and water till the severity is reduced. The procedure is to take the juice of an orange diluted in a cup of warm water, every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. After the juice fast, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for two or three days. In case of a mild cough, the patient can begin with an all-fruit diet for five to seven days, taking. three meals a day of fresh juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grape-fruit. oranges, pineapples, peaches, and melons. For drinks, unsweetened lemon water, or cold or hot plain water may be given. After the all-fruit diet, the patient should follow a well-balanced diet, with emphasis on whole grain cereals, raw or lightly cooked vegetables, and fresh fruits.
The patient should avoid meats, sugar, tea, coffee, condiments, pickles, refined and processed foods. He should also avoid soft drinks, candies, ice-cream, and all products made from sugar and white flour.
Other Measures
While the cough is severe, a warm-water enema should be used daily to cleanse the bowels.
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CYSTITIS (Inflammation of the Urinary Bladder)
The term 'cystitis' refers to inflammation of the urinary bladder. The recurrence of cystitis may, in some cases, be associated with kidney troubles.
Causes and Symptoms
The patient complains of an almost continual urge to void and a burning sensation on passing urine. There may be a feeling of pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen. The urine may become thick, dark, and stringy. It may have an unpleasant smell and may contain blood or pus. Some pain in the lower back may also be felt in certain cases. In an acute stage, there may be a rise in body temperature. In the chronic form of cystitis, the symptoms are similar but generally less severe and longer lasting, and without a fever.
Cystitis may result from infections in other parts connected with or adjacent to the bladder such as the kidneys, the urethra, the vagina, or the prostate gland. There may be local irritation and inflammation in the bladder if urine is retained there for an unduly long time. Cystitis may also result from severe constipation. Other conditions like an infected kidney, stones in the kidneys or bladder, or an enlarged prostate may also lead to this disorder.
Home Remedies
Cucumber Juice:
Cucumber juice is one of the most useful home remedies in the treatment of cystitis. It is a very effective diuretic. A cup of this juice, mixed with one teaspoon of honey and a tablespoon of fresh lime juice, should be given three times daily.
Drumstick "'lowers:
Fresh juice of the flowers of drumstick is another effective remedy for cystitis. For better results, a teaspoon of the juice, mixed with half a glass of tender coconut water, should be given twice daily. It acts as a diuretic in the treatment of this disease.
Radish Leaves:
The juice of radish leaves is valuable in cystitis. A cup of this juice should be given once daily, in the morning, for a fortnight
Lady's Fingers:
Fresh lady's fingers are useful in cystitis. A decoction made of 100 gm of lady's fingers and 200 ml of water should be taken twice daily in the treatment of this disease.
Spinach:
A quantity of 100 ml of fresh spinach juice, taken with an equal quantity of tender coconut water twice a day, is considered beneficial in the treatment of cystitis. It acts as a very effective and safe diuretic due to the combined action of both nitrates and potassium.
Lemon:
Lemon has proved valuable in cystitis. A teaspoon of lemon juice should be put in 180 ml of boiling water. It should then be allowed to cool and 60 ml of this water should be taken every two hours from 8 a.m. to 12 noon for the treatment of this condition. This eases the burning sensation and also stops bleeding in cystitis.
Barley:
Half a glass each of barley gruel, mixed with buttermilk and the juice of half a lime, is an excellent diuretic. It is beneficial in the treatment of cystitis, and may be taken twice daily.
Sandalwood Oil:
The oil of sandalwood is also considered valuable in this disease. This oil should be given in doses of five drops in the beginning and gradually increased to ten to thirty drops. The efficacy of this oil can be increased by the addition of one teaspoon of ajwain mixed in a glass of water, or ten grams of ginger mixed in a cup water.
Dietary Considerations
At the onset of acute cystitis, it is essential to withhold all solid foods immediately. If there is fever, the patient should fast on water or tender coconut water for three or four days. If there is no fever, raw vegetable juices, especially carrot juice, should be taken every two or three hours. Half a glass of carrot juice should be mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken at a time. For the next two to three days, only ripe fruits may be taken three or four times daily.
After the all-fruit diet, the patient may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, with emphasis on seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. The patient should avoid refined carbohydrates and salt with food and in cooking.
Other Measures
During the first three or four days of acute cystitis, when the patient is on a liquid diet, it is advisable to rest and keep warm. Pain can be relieved by immersing the pelvis in hot water.Alternatively, heat can be applied to the abdomen, by using a towel wrung out in hot water and covering it with a dry towel to retain warmth. This treatment may be continued for three or four days, by which time the inflammation should have subsided and the temperature returned to normal.
During the next two or three days of an all-fruit diet, cold compresses should be applied to the abdomen. While the hot compresses are intended to relieve pain, the use of cold water compresses is most valuable in relieving pelvic congestion and increasing the activity of the skin. Care should, however, be taken to ensure that compresses do not cause chilling.
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
CATARACT
Cataract is a common eye disease. A cataract refers to an area of the lens of a person's eye that has become whitish and opaque instead of remaining clear. The result is that the person cannot see clearly.
The crystalline lens, through which light travels into the interior of the eye, is situated just behind the iris or coloured portion of the eye. In cataract, this lens becomes opaque, hence, seriously hampering the entrance of light into the eye. Blindness ensues when no light rays can permeate the opacity of the lens.
Causes and Symptoms
The first sign of cataract is blurred vision. The patient finds it difficult to see things in focus. As the disease progresses, the patient may get double vision or spots, or both. At first, vision in twilight may be better than in full daylight since light is admitted round the more widely-dilated pupil in the dark. In the advanced stage, objects and persons may appear as mere blobs of light, and there is a grayish-white discoloration in the pupil.
There are three factors which contribute to the loss of transparency of the lens. These are deterioration in the nutrition of the lens which diminishes the vitality and resistance of the delicate lens fibres; deposits of acids and salts between the lens
fibres which have an irritating effect on the lens tissues and exert an increasing pressure on its delicate fibres, gradually destroying them; and disintegration of lens fibres which cloud the entire lens in the absence of appropriate measures.
As in the case of most diseases, poisons in the blood stream due to dietetic errors and a faulty style of living, are the real cause of cataract. The toxic matter in the blood stream spreads throughout the body to find shelter in any available weak spot. It strikes the lens if it has become weak through strain, excessive use of the eyes, and local irritation. The condition becomes worse with the passage of time and then a cataract starts developing. Other causes of cataract are stress and strain; excessive intake of alcoholic drinks, sugar, and salt; smoking; certain physical ailments such as gastrointestinal or gall-bladder disturbances; diabetes; vitamin deficiencies; fatty acid intolerance; ageing; radiation; side-effects of drugs that have been prescribed for other diseases.
HOME REMEDIES
Carrot:
The use of carrots is considered beneficial in the treatment of cataract. The patient should take plenty of raw carrots daily. As an alternative, he may drink two glasses of fresh carrot juice, one each in the morning and evening.
Garlic:
The use of garlic is another effective home remedy for cataract. Two or three cloves should be eaten raw daily. They should be chewed slowly. Garlic helps to clean the crystalline lens of the eye.
Pumpkin:
The flowers of pumpkin are valuable in cataract The juice of these flowers should be extracted and applied externally on the eyelids twice daily. It will stop further clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye.
Aniseed:
Aniseed is considered a useful remedy for cataract An equal quantity of aniseed and coriander powder should be mixed with one teaspoon of brown sugar, and the mixture should be taken in doses of 12 gm in the morning and evening.
Honey:
The use of unprocessed pure honey is another effective remedy for cataract A few drops of this honey should be put in the eyes. This is an ancient Egyptian remedy which has benefitted many patients.
Almonds:
Almonds are valuable in cataract. Seven kernels should be ground finely with half a gram of pepper (kali mirch) in half a cup of water, and drunk after sweetening the mixture with a teaspoon of sugar candy. It helps the eyes to regain their vigour.
Nutrients:
Certain nutrients have also been found useful in cataract. Experiments have shown that animals develop cataract if deprived of pantothenic acid and amino acids, and tryptophane and vitamin B6 needed for tryptophane assimilation. The diet of the cataract patient should, therefore, be high in vitamins B2 and B6, as well as the entire B complex group, pantothenic acid, vitamins C,D, E and other nutrients.
Dietary Considerations
A thorough cleansing of the body is essential. To start with, it will be advisable to undertake a fast of orange juice and water for three days. After this initial fast, a diet of a very restricted nature should be followed for two weeks. Breakfast may consist of seasonal juicy fruits. Raw vegetable salads with olive oil and lemon juice dressing, and soaked raisins, figs, or dates should be taken during lunch. Evening meals should consist of steamed vegetables and a few nuts. Potatoes should be avoided. After two weeks of this diet, the cataract patient may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. The emphasis should be on fresh juicy fruits and raw vegetables.
The juice fast followed by the restricted diet should be repeated at an interval of three months. The patient should avoid white bread, sugar, cream, refined cereals, rice, boiled potatoes, puddings and pies, strong tea or coffee, alcoholic beverages, condiments, pickles, and sauces.
Other Measures
A warn-water enema should be given daily during the juice fast An Epsom salts bath is beneficial and should be taken twice a week. The patient should remain in the bath from twenty-five to thirty-five minutes till he perspires freely. After the bath, he should cool off gradually. Eyes should be closed and bathed externally, at least, twice daily with hot water containing Epsom salts.
Eye exercises aimed at relaxing and strengthening of the eyes are also valuable in cataract The details about these exercises as well as the procedure for palming have been explained in the chapter on Conjunctivitis.
Fresh air and gentle outdoor exercise, such as walking, are other essentials. Exposure to heat and bright light should be avoided.
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CHICKEN POX (Viral Fever with Rash)
Chicken pox is a highly contagious disease, occurring usually in children. It usually affects children of three to four years of age. In most cases, the older the child, the more severe the attack.
Causes and Symptoms
Chicken pox usually begins with a low grade fever, a mild headache and a feeling of weakness. A rash appears on the skin on the first day of the disease. This is in the form of tiny red spots on the skin, mostly on the upper back of chest. In more severe cases, a rash may appear on the face and lower extremities. The papules turn into blisters and finally become pustules and form scabs, which falloff. They come in successive crops, so that while some are drying, others are beginning to form. The skin clears after a few days and the child feels well again. The duration of this disease ranges from ten to twenty-one days but is usually between fourteen and seventeen days.
Chicken pox is caused by a virus. Many researchers believe that the disease is closely related to a much more serious condition known as shingles or herpes zoster that affects adults. The basic cause of the disease, as in most cases of childhood fevers, "is however, persistent wrong feeding of children, which results in diminished defence mechanisms of the body.
HOME Remedies
Brown Vinegar: The use of brown vinegar is one of the most important among the several home remedies found beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. Half a cup of this vinegar should be added to a bath of warm water. This will relieve the irritation of the skin.
Oatmeal:
A bath of oatmeal is considered a natural remedy for relieving the itch due to chicken pox. This bath is prepared by cooking two cups of oatmeal in two litres of water for fifteen minutes. This mixture is then put into a cloth bag, preferably cotton, and a string is tied tightly around the top. This bag is allowed to float in a tub of warm water, and swished around until the water becomes turbid. Precaution should be taken to ensure that the bag is not tom. The child with chicken pox can splash and play in the water, making sure that water goes over all the scalds, while the pouch of oatmeal can remain in the tub.
Pea Water:
Green pea water is another effective remedy for relieving irritation of the skin. The water in which fresh peas have been cooked can be used for this purpose.
Baking Soda:
Baking soda is a popular remedy to control the itching in chicken pox. Some baking soda should be put in a glass of water. The child should be sponged with this water. so that the soda dries on the skin. This will keep the child away from scratching the eruptions.
Vitamin E Oil:
The use of vitamin E oil is valuable in chicken pox. This oil should be rubbed on the skin. It will have a healing effect The marks left by chicken pox will fade away by this application.
Honey:
The use of honey as an external application has also proved valuable in chicken pox. The skin should be smeared with honey. It will help in the healing of the disease within three days.
Carrot and Coriander:
A soup prepared from carrots and coriander has been found beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. About 100 gm of carrots and 60 gm of fresh coriander should be cut into small pieces and boiled for a while. The residue should be discarded. This soup should be taken once a day.
Herbal Tea:
A mild sedative herbal tea can also prove beneficial in the treatment of chicken pox. This tea can be prepared from any of the herbs like chamomile (babunah), basil (tulsi), marigold (zergul and lemon balm (billilotan). A little cinnamon (dalchini), honey, and lemon may be added to this tea. It should be sipped slowly several times a day.
Dietary Considerations
To begin with, the patient should be put on a juice diet for a few days. He should be given plenty of raw fruit and vegetable juices. Lemon juice is considered to be especially beneficial. As the condition improves, the patient can be placed on an all-fruit diet for the next few days. Thereafter, he may be allowed to gradually adopt a well-balanced diet., with emphasis on fresh fruits and raw vegetables.
Other Measures
A small warm-water enema should be administered daily during the initial juice fast to cleanse the bowels. The patient should be kept in a well-ventilated room. As light has a detrimental effect upon the eyes during an attack of chicken pox because of the weakened condition of the external eye tissues, the patient should shade his eyes from the direct light or the room should have subdued light.
Application of mud packs on the abdomen twice a day, in the morning and evening, and repeated applications of chest packs will be beneficial. Lukewarm water baths can be given every day to relieve itching. For better results, neem leaves can be added to this water. The nails of the child should be kept clipped to prevent him from scratching, otherwise, germs on the skin may be scratched into the blisters, causing more severe infection.
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CHOLERA
Cholera is one of the most severe diseases of the intestines. It is a serious infection involving the lower part of the small bowel. It is a water-borne disease and is common during the monsoon. The mortality rate for this disease has been quite high.
Causes and Symptoms
The first sign of cholera may be mild diarrhoea. This is followed by sudden violent purging. The stools are loose, watery, and grayish-brown in colour. Diarrhoea is usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The patient gets severe cramps in the stomach, and feels very thirsty and restless. The temperature rises, but the skin is generally cold and clammy and the pulse is weak. In the next stage, the body becomes colder; the skin dry, wrinkled, and purple; the voice weak and husky; and the urine, scanty and dark. The blood pressure falls, the cramps are agonizing, and signs of collapse appear rapidly. Cholera is caused by a germ known as Vibrio cholerae. This germ produces a powerful poison or endotoxin. The disease is spread by flies and water contaminated by the germs.
HOME REMEDIES
Lemon:
The foremost among the many home remedies for cholera is the use of lemon. The juice of this fruit can kill cholera bacilli within a very short time. It is also a very effective and reliable preventive against cholera during an epidemic. It can be taken in the form of a sweetened or salted beverage for this purpose. Taking of lemon with food as a daily routine can also prevent cholera.
Guava Root Bark:
The root bark of guava is rich in tannins and it can be successfully employed as a concentrated decoction in cholera. It arrests vomiting and symptoms of diarrhoea. About thirty grams of the root bark should be used in half a litre of water to make the decoction. The water should be boiled down to reduce it by one-third. This decoction can be taken twice daily.
Onion:
Onions are another valuable remedy for cholera. About thirty grams of this vegetable and seven black peppers should be pounded finely in a pestle and given to the patient in two or three doses during the day. Onions allay thirst and restlessness and the patient feels better.
Bitter Gourd:
The fresh juice of bitter gourd is an effective medicine in the early stages of cholera. Two teaspoons of this juice, mixed with an equal quantity of white onion juice and a teaspoon of lime juice, should be given twice daily in the treatment of this condition.
Drumstick Leaves:
The leaves of the drumstick tree are also useful in this disease. A teaspoon of fresh leaf juice, mixed with one teaspoon of honey and a glass of tender coconut water, can be given two or three times a day as a herbal medicine in the treatment of cholera.
Cucumber:
A glass of fresh juice of cucumber leaves with an equal quantity of tender coconut water, given in doses of 30-60 ml, forms a valuable remedy for excessive thirst during cholera. It acts excellently by restoring the acid-base balance in dehydration.
Nutmeg:
The herb nutmeg is a valuable remedy for dehydration caused by cholera. An infusion made by steeping half a nutmeg in half a litre of water should be given along with half a litre of tender coconut water in doses of 15 ml at a time in treating this condition.
Clove:
Cloves are useful in cholera. About four grams of this spice should be boiled in three litres of water until half of the water has evaporated. The decoction thus prepared should be given to the patient several times during the day. This will reduce the severe symptoms.
Rough Chaff:
The powdered root of rough chaff, botanically known as Achyranthes aspera, is also helpful in cholera. About six grams of the powder should be thoroughly mixed with half a cup of water and given to the patient once daily.
Dietary Considerations
The patient should not be given solid food till he has fully recovered from cholera. Liquid bland foods will be easily digested by the patient. Lemon, onions, vinegar, and mint should be included in the daily diet during an epidemic of cholera. All uncooked vegetables should be avoided.
Other Measures
Cholera can be controlled only by rigid purification of water supply and proper disposal of human excreta. In case there is a slightest doubt about contamination of water, it must be boiled before use for drinking and cooking purposes. All foodstuffs must be kept covered, and vegetables and fruits washed with a solution of potassium permanganate before consumption. Those handling food should wash their hands well before starting to cook. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CIRRHOSIS (Hardening of the Liver)
Cirrhosis of the liver is characterised by a significant loss of cells, so that the liver gradually contracts in size and becomes hard and leathery.
Causes and Symptoms
In the early stages of the disease, there may be nothing more than frequent attacks of indigestion, with occasional nausea and vomiting. There may also be some abdominal pain and loss of weight. In the advanced stage, the patient develops a low grade fever. He has a foul breath, a jaundiced skin and distended veins in the abdomen. Reddish hair like markings, resembling small spiders, may appear on the face, neck, arms, and trunk. The abdomen becomes bloated and swollen, the mind gets clouded, and there may be considerable bleeding from the stomach.
Excessive use of alcohol over a long period is the most potent cause of cirrhosis of the liver in adults. The disease can progress to the final stage of hepatic failure if the person does not abstain from alcohol. Poor nutrition can be another causative factor in the development of cirrhosis and a chronic alcoholic usually suffers from severe malnutrition. Cirrhosis may also result from a highly toxic condition of the system in general.
Home Remedies
Papaya Seeds:
The black seeds of papaya have been found beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, caused by alcoholism and malnutrition. A tablespoon of juice obtained by grinding the seeds, mixed with ten drops of fresh lime juice, should be given once or twice daily for about :I. month as a medicine for this disease.
Trailing Eclipta:
The herb trailing eclipta, botanically known as Eclipta alba, has proved invaluable in cirrhosis of the liver. The juice of all parts of this plant should be taken in doses of one teaspoon, mixed with one teaspoon of honey, three times daily.
Picrorhiza:
Picrorhiza, botanically known as Picrorhiza kurroa. is a drug of choice in Ayurveda for cirrhosis of the liver among adults. The root of the herb is given in powdered form. A tablespoon of the powder, mixed with an equal quantity of honey, should be administered thrice daily. In case of accompanying constipation, the dose should be increased to double and should be given with a cup of warm water, three to four times a day. It stimulates the liver to produce more bile, the excretion of which relieves congestion of the liver and the tissues.
Vegetable Juices:
The juice of carrots, in combination with spinach juice, has been found beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver. Spinach juice-200 ml, should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice to prepare 500 ml or half a litre of combined juices. Alternatively 300 ml of carrot juice, combined with 100 ml each of cucumber and beet juices can be used effectively.
Dietary Considerations
The patient must abstain from alcohol in any form. He should undergo an initial liver-cleaning programme by going on a juice fast for seven days. Freshly extracted juices from red beets, lemon, papaya, and grapes may be taken during this period. This may be followed by a fruit and milk diet for two to three weeks. In this regimen, the patient should have three meals a day of fresh juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grapefruit, oranges, pineapples, and peaches, and a litre of milk divided into three parts, each part to be taken with each fruit meal. The milk should be gradually increased by 250 ml daily and go up to two litres a day. It should be fresh and slightly warmed, if desired. It should be sipped very slowly.
After the fruit and milk diet, the patient should embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits with emphasis on raw, organically-grown foods. Vegetables such as beets, squashes, bitter gourd, egg-plant, tomatoes, carrots, radishes, and papaya are especially useful in this condition.
All fats and oils should be excluded from the diet for several weeks. The patient should avoid all refined, processed, and canned foods; spices and condiments; strong tea and coffee; fried foods; all preparations cooked in ghee, oil, or butter; all meats; and all chemical additives in food. The use of salt should be restricted.
Other Measures
The patient should be kept in bed. A warm-water enema should be used daily to cleanse the bowels during the juice fast and thereafter, if necessary. Application of hot and cold compresses,for two to three minutes each, on the liver area are beneficial. The morning dry friction, breathing and other exercises should form a regular daily feature of the treatment. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
COLITIS (Inflammation of the Colon)
Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon. The disease results from prolonged irritation and inflammation of the delicate membrane which lines the walls of the colon. Chronic ulcerative colitis is a severe prolonged inflammation of the colon or large bowel, in which ulcers form on the walls of the colon.
Causes and Symptoms
Colitis usually begins in the lower part of the colon and spreads upwards. The first symptom of the trouble is an increased urgency to move the bowel, followed by cramping pains in the abdomen and, sometimes, bloody mucus in the stools. As the disease spreads upward, the stools become watery and more frequent and are characterised by rectal straining. The loss of blood and fluid from the bowels results in weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and anemia. Other symptoms are a bloated feeling, constipation alternating with diarrhoea or persistent diarrhoea for years together, and insomnia. The patient is usually malnourished and may be severely underweight.
One of the causes of colitis is chronic constipation and the use of purgatives. Constipation causes an accumulation of the hard faecal matter which is never properly evacuated. Purgatives used as a 'cure' only increase irritation. Often colitis results from poorly digested roughage, especially of cereals and carbohydrates, which causes bowel irritation. Other causes of the disease are an allergic sensitivity to certain' foods, intake of antibiotics and severe stress.
Home Remedies
Banana:
One or two ripe bananas taken every day are one of the most effective home remedies for ulcerative colitis. Being bland, smooth, easily-digestible and slightly laxative, they relieve the acute symptoms and promote the healing process.
Buttermilk:
A glass of butte milk taken daily is another effective remedy for colitis. It is the residual liquid left over after the fat has been removed from curd by churning.
Tender Coconut:
Drinking the water of one tender coconut daily has been found. valuable in colitis. It is soothing to the soft mucosa of the colon.
Apples:
Steamed apples also aid the healing of ulcerative lesions because of their ample concentration of iron and phosphorus.
Drumstick:
Drumsticks are also useful in colitis. A teaspoon of fresh leaf juice, mixed with an equal quantity of honey and a glass of tender coconut water, is given two or three times daily as a herbal medicine for the treatment of this disease.
Rice:
Rice has a very low fibre content., and is, therefore, extremely soothing in colitis. A thick gruel of rice mixed with a glass of buttermilk and a ripe banana, given twice a day, forms a very nutritious, well-balanced diet in this disease.
Wheat-grass:
The juice of wheat-grass (a grass which grows after sowing wheat grains in the earth) used as an enema, helps detoxify the walls of the colon. The general procedure is to first give an enema with lukewarm water. After waiting for twenty minutes, 90-120 ml of wheat-grass juice enema is given. This should be retained for fifteen minutes. This enema is very helpful in disorders associated with colitis. Wheat-grass can be grown at home in earthen pots if it is not available through dealers.
Dietary Considerations
Diet plays an important part in the treatment of colitis. It is advisable to observe a juice fast for five days or so, in most cases of ulcerative colitis. Papaya juice, raw cabbage juice, and carrot juice are especially beneficial. Citrus juices should be avoided.
After the juice fast the patient should gradually adopt a diet of small, frequent meals of soft cooked or steamed vegetables, rice, porridge, dalia, and well-ripened fruits like banana and papaya, yoghurt, and home-made cottage cheese. Sprouted seeds and grains, whole meal bread, and raw vegetables may be added gradually to this diet after about ten days. All food must be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly.
Foods which should be excluded from the diet are white sugar, white bread, and white flour products; highly seasoned foods highly salted foods; strong tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages; and foods cooked in aluminum pans.
Other Measures
During the first five days of the juice fast, the bowels should be cleansed daily with a warm-water enema. A buttermilk enema taken twice a week is also soothing and helps in re-installing useful bacterial flora in the colon.
Complete bed rest is very important The patient should eliminate all causes of tension and face his discomfort with patience.
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COMMON COLD (Viral Throat Infection)
A common cold, also known as acute coryza, is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by infection with common cold viruses. A common cold occurs more often than any other disease - hence, its name. A person may suffer from a common cold several times in a year. A cold usually lasts from three to ten days. The patient feels miserable for the first three days or so.
Causes and Symptoms
The initial signs of a cold are a feeling of soreness of the throat and congestion of the nasal passages. Although the disease normally begins in the nose and throat, it affects all parts of the body. Its usual symptoms are a running nose, sneezing, a rise in temperature, headache, sore throat, chill, aches and pains in the body, and loss of appetite. The skin around the nostrils may become sore.
A common cold results from exposure to the virus. Its intensity, however, depends upon the state of health of the person and environmental factors. Low vitality, exposure to cold, lack of sleep, mental depression, fatigue, and factors such as sudden changes in temperature, dust, and other irritating inhalations are important contributory causes.
Home Remedies
Lemon:
Lemon is the most important among the many home remedies for common cold. It is beneficial in all types of cold with fever. Vitamin C-rich lemon juice increases body resistance, decreases toxicity and reduces the duration of the illness. One lemon should be diluted in a glass of warm water, and a teaspoon of honey should be added to it. This should be taken once or twice daily.
Garlic:
Garlic soup is an old remedy to reduce the severity of a cold, and should be taken once daily. The soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water. Garlic contains antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, besides several other medicinal virtues. The oil contained in this vegetable helps to open up the respiratory passages. In soup form, it flushes out all toxins from the system and thus helps bring down fever. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day. This has also been found to be very effective in the treatment of common cold.
Ginger:
Ginger is another excellent remedy for colds and coughs. About ten grams of ginger should be cut into small pieces and boiled in a cup of water. It should then be strained and half a teaspoon of sugar added to it. This decoction should be drunk when hot. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is also an effective remedy for colds and for fevers resulting from cold. It may be taken twice daily.
Lady's Fingers:
Lady's fingers are highly valuable in treating irritation of the throat and a persistent dry cough. This vegetable is rich in mucilage and acts as a drug to allay irritation, swelling, and pain. About 100 gm of Lady’s fingers should be cut into pieces, and boiled down in half a litre of water to make a decoction. The steam issuing from this decoction may also be inhaled once or twice a day to relieve throat irritation and a dry cough.
Bitter Gourd Roots:
The roots of the bitter gourd plant are used in folk medicine to cure a cold. A teaspoon of the root paste, mixed with an equal quantity of honey or tulsi leaf juice, given once every night for a month, acts as an excellent medicine for colds.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is an effective remedy for cold~ and throat irritations. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk, and taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for these conditions. Turmeric powder should be put into a hot ladle. Milk should then be poured in it and boiled over a slow fire. This mixture should then be drunk by the patient. In case of a running cold, smoke from the burning turmeric should be inhaled. It will increase the discharge from the nose and provide quick relief.
Tamarind and Pepper:
Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold in South India. Dilute 50 mg tamarind in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind water for a few minutes with a teaspoon of hot ghee and half a teaspoon of black pepper powder. This steaming hot rasam has a flushing effect, and should be taken three times a day. As one takes it, the nose and eyes water and the nasal blockage is cleared.
Vitamin C:
The regular intake of vitamin C-75 mg for adults and 35 mg for children-will prevent the common cold. If, however, a cold has already appeared, large doses of this vitamin will relieve the symptoms and shorten its duration. He estimates that one to two grams (1000 mg to 2000 mg) per day is approximately the optimum amount of this vitamin for this purpose. His advice is to swallow one or two 500 mg tablets of vitamin C at the appearance of the first sign of the cold and continue the treatment by taking one to two 500 mg tablets daily.
Dietary Considerations
During the acute stage of the cold, when fever is present, the patient should abstain from all solid foods and only drink fruit and vegetable juices, diluted with water. After the acute symptoms are over, the patient can gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is advisable to avoid meat, fish, eggs, cheese, and starchy foods.
Other Measures
Other useful measures in the treatment of a common cold are a mild sunbath, fresh air and deep breathing, brisk walks, sound sleep, and adjustment of one's clothes and habits to the requirements of the season so as to nullify the effect of weather fluctuations.
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CONJUNCTIVITIS (Redness of the eye)
Conjunctivitis refers to an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane covering the front of the eye. This is also referred to as having 'sore eyes' and is a very common form of eye trouble. It spreads from person to person through direct contact Overcrowding, dirty surroundings and unhealthy living conditions can cause epidemics of this ailment
Causes and Symptoms
The eyeball and underside of the eyelids become inflammed. At first, the eyes are red and itchy. Later, there may be a watery secretion. In more serious cases, there is pus formation, which dries up during sleep, making the lashes stick together.
Conjunctivitis results from bacterial or a virus infection or eyestrain. Prolonged work under artificial light and excessive use of the eyes in one way or the other, no doubt, contribute towards the disease. But its real cause can be traced to a catarrhal condition of the system resulting from general toxaemia due to dietetic errors, and a faulty style of living. The patient generally suffers from colds or other ailments indicative of a general catarrhal condition.
Home Remedies
A doctor must be consulted before any recommended home remedies are used directly for the eyes.
Vegetable Juices:
Raw juices of certain vegetables, especially carrots and spinach, have been found valuable in conjunctivitis. The combined juices of these two vegetables have proved very effective. In this combination, 200 ml of spinach juice should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice. Raw parsley (prajmoda) juice-200 ml, mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice has also been found beneficial in the treatment of this disease.
Indian Gooseberry:
The juice of the Indian gooseberry, mixed with honey, is useful in conjunctivitis. A cup of this juice should be taken mixed with two teaspoons of honey twice daily in treating this condition.
Vitamins:
Vitamins A and B2 have proved useful in conjunctivitis. The patient should take liberal quantities of natural foods rich in these two vitamins. Foods rich in vitamin A are whole milk, curds, butter, carrots, pumpkin, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, mangoes, and papaya. Foods rich in vitamin B2 are green leafy vegetables, milk, almonds, citrus fruits, bananas, and tomatoes.
Coriander:
A decoction prepared with a handful of dried coriander in 60 ml of water is an excellent eye-wash in conjunctivitis. It is said to relieve burning and reduces pain and swelling. This decoction should, however, be sparingly used by persons suffering from bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Dietary Considerations
The best way to commence treatment for conjunctivitis is to adopt an exclusive fresh fruit diet for a week. In this regimen, the three meals a day should consist of fresh, juicy seasonal fruits. Bananas should, however, not be taken. Those with acute conjunctivitis should undertake a juice fast for three or four days. The short juice fast may be followed by an all-fruit diet for a further 'seven days. Thereafter, the patient may adopt a restricted diet, consisting of fresh fruits, raw mixed-vegetable salad, whole meal bread or chapatis and steamed vegetables, and nuts.
The patient should avoid an excessive intake of starchy and sugary foods in the form of white bread, refined cereals, potatoes, puddings, sugar, jams, confectionery, meats, fatty foods, strong tea and coffee, too much salt, condiments, and sauces which cause a general catarrhal condition as well as conjunctivitis.
Other Measures
Those taking a juice fast for the first three or four days of the treatment should take a warm-water enema daily during the fast
A cold water fomentation of the eyes provides almost immediate relief. The procedure is to fold a small hand towel, saturate it with cold water, squeeze out excess water and place the towel gently over both the eyes. It should be covered with a piece of warm cloth to retain the temperature. The process should be repeated as soon as the foment becomes warm. Fomentation should be done for an hour. The eyes should then be covered with a dry towel, and the patient should lie back and relax. The damaged eye tissues will quickly return to normal. This treatment should be repeated every night for a week, even though the problem may clear up with the first treatment itself.
The patient should also adopt various methods of relaxing and strengthening the eyes. These include moving the eyes gently up and down, from side to side and in a circle - clockwise and anticlockwise; rotating the neck in circles and semicircles; and briskly moving the shoulders clockwise and anticlockwise. Palming is highly beneficial in removing strain and relaxing the eyes and its surrounding tissues. The procedure is as follows; sit in a comfortable position and relax with your eyes closed. Cover the eyes with the palms, right palm over the right eye and the left over the left eye. Do not press on the eye balls. Then allow your elbows to drop to your knees, which should be fairly close together.
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CONSTIPATION
Constipation is a common disturbance of the digestive tract In this condition, the bowels do not move regularly, or are not completely emptied when they move. This condition is the chief cause of many diseases as it produces toxins which find their way into the bloodstream and are carried to all parts of the body. Appendicitis, rheumatism, arthritis, high blood pressure, cataract, and cancer are only a few of the diseases in which chronic constipation is an important predisposing factor.
Causes and Symptoms
The most common symptoms of constipation are infrequency, irregularity or difficulty in elimination of the hard faecal matter.
The other symptoms include a coated tongue, foul breath, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, dark circles under the eyes, depression, nausea, pimples on the face, ulcer in the mouth, constant fullness in the abdomen, diarrhoea alternating with constipation, varicose veins, pain in the lumbar region, acidity, heart bum, and insomnia.
The most" important causes of chronic constipation are a faulty diet and style of living. Intake of refined and rich foods lacking in vitamins and minerals, insufficient intake of water, consumption of meat in large quantities, excessive use of strong tea and coffee, insufficient chewing, overeating and wrong combination of foods, irregular habits of eating and drinking may all contribute to poor bowel function. Other causes include faulty and irregular habit of defecation, frequent use of purgatives, weakness of abdominal muscles due to sedentary habits, lack of physical activity, and emotional stress and strain.
Home Remedies
Bael Fruit:
Generally all fruits, except banana and jack fruit, are beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Certain fruits are, however, more effective. Bael fruit is regarded as the best of all laxatives. It cleans and tones up the intestines. Its regular use for two or three months throws out even the old accumulated faecal matter. It should be preferably taken in its original form and before dinner. About sixty grams of the fruit are sufficient for an adult
Pear:
Pears are beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Patients suffering from chronic constipation should adopt an exclusive diet of this fruit or its juice for a few days, but in ordinary cases, a medium-sized pear taken after dinner or with breakfast will have the desired effect.
Guava:
Guava is another effective remedy for constipation. When eaten with seeds, it provides roughage to the diet and helps in the normal evacuation of the bowels. One or two guavas should be taken everyday.
Grapes:
Grapes have proved very beneficial in overcoming constipation. The combination of the properties of the cellulose, sugar, and organic acid in grapes make them a laxative food. Their field of action is not limited to clearing the bowels only. They also tone up the stomach and intestines and relieve the most chronic constipation. One should take at least 350 gm of this fruit daily to achieve the desired results. When fresh grapes are not available, raisins, soaked in water, can be used. Raisins should be soaked for twenty-four to forty-eight hours. This will make them swell to the original size of the grapes. They should be eaten early in the morning, along with the water in which they have been soaked.
Orange:
Orange is also beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Taking one or two oranges at bedtime and again on rising in the morning is an excellent way of stimulating the bowels. The general stimulating influence of orange juice excites peristaltic activity and helps prevent the accumulation of food residue in the colon.
Papaya and Figs:
Other fruits specific for constipation are papaya and figs. Half a medium-sized papaya should be eaten at breakfast for it to act as a laxative. Both fresh and dry figs have a laxative effect. Four or five dry figs should be soaked overnight in a little water and eaten in the morning.
Spinach:
Among the vegetables, spinach has been consi¬dered to be the most vital food for the entire digestive tract from time immemorial. Raw spinach contains the finest organic material for the cleansing, reconstruction, and regeneration of the intestinal tract. Raw spinach juice 100 ml, mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken twice daily, will cure the most aggravated cases of constipation within a few days.
Other Remedies:
Half a lime, squeezed is a glass of hot water, with half a teaspoon of salt is also an effective remedy for constipation. Drinking water which has been kept overnight in a copper vessel, first thing in the morning, brings good results. Linseed (alse) is extremely useful in difficult cases of constipation. A teaspoon of linseed swallowed with water before each meal provides both roughage and lubrication.
Dietary Considerations
The most important factor in curing constipation is a natural and simple diet. This should consist of unrefined foods such as wholegrain cereals, bran, honey, lentils, green and leafy vege¬tables, fresh and dry fruits, and milk products in the form of butter, ghee, and cream. The diet alone is not enough. Food should be properly chewed. Hurried meals and meals at odd times should be avoided. Sugar and sugary foods should be strictly avoided. Foods which constipate are all products made of white flour, rice, bread, pulses, cakes, pastries, biscuits, cheese, fleshy foods, preserves, white sugar, and hard-boiled eggs.
Other Measures
Toning up the muscles also helps in the treatment of constipation. Fresh air, outdoor games, walking, swimming, and exercise play an important role in strengthening the muscles, and thereby preventing constipation. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CORNS ( Local Thickening of the Skin)
A corn refers to a localized thickening of the skin, especially on the toes, and extending into subcutaneous tissue. A corn is usually small but painful.
Causes and Symptoms
Corns are usually found over the joints of the toes and on the soles of the feet. They are shaped like a pyramid with the apex pointing inwards. They are tender when touched. Sometimes painful and infective warts that occur on the soles of the feet are mistaken for corns.
Corns are usually formed as a result of pressure on the toes and skin surfaces of the feet through incorrect footwear.
Home Remedies
Liquorice:
Liquorice is one of the most valuable remedies for corns that are just appearing. A paste made by grinding three' or four liquorice sticks and mixing it with half a teaspoon of sesame oil or mustard oil should be rubbed into the hardened skin at bedtime. The skin gradually softens and the com decreases in size.
Lemon:
Lemon is another valuable remedy for corns. A fresh slice of lemon should be tied over the painful area at night and allowed to remain there the whole night
Papaya:
Raw papaya is beneficial in the treatment of corns. Its juice is an irritant and it is, therefore, a useful application in this condition. Half a teaspoon of raw papaya juice may be applied thrice daily.
Indian Squill:
The herb Indian squill, botanically known as Urginea indica, is useful in removing corns. A bulb may be roasted and applied over the com. It should be secured with a bandage. This application may be made at night and removed in the morning.
Green Figs:
The milky juice of green figs is valuable for corns of long duration. It helps to soften them. Half a teaspoon of this juice may be extracted from the fruit and applied two or three times daily.
Chalk Powder:
Chalk powder has also been found bene¬ficial in the treatment of corns. A small piece of chalk may be ground into a paste with water and applied over the affected area.
Dietary Considerations
A light nutritious diet containing vitamins and minerals in the form of fruits and vegetables is recommended.
Other Measures
For proper treatment of a com, it is essential to first stop wearing the shoes that caused it In most cases the com will disappear when the pressure is removed. Medicinal com-removing plasters, known as corn caps, are easily available with chemists. They are found to be effective.
For soft corns, which usually occur between the toes, the feet should be washed daily. This should be followed by the application of a mild talcum powder.
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CORONARY HEART DISEASE
The term coronary heart disease covers a group of clinical syndromes arising particularly from failure of the coronary arteries to supply sufficient blood to the heart They include angina pectoris, coronary thrombosis or heart attack, and sudden death without infarction.
Causes and Symptoms
A common symptom of heart disease is shortness of breath, which is caused by the blood being deprived of the proper amount of oxygen. Another common symptom is chest pain or pain down either arm. Other symptoms are palpitations, fainting, emotional instability, cold hands and feet, frequent perspiration, and fatigue.
The basic causes of heart disease are wrong feeding habits, faulty style of living and various stresses. The famous Framingham Heart Study! of the National Heart and Lung Institute in Massachusetts, identified seven major risk factors in coronary heart disease. These are: (1) elevated blood levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fatty substances; (2) elevated blood pressure (3) elevated blood uric acid levels (mainly caused by high protein diet); (4) certain metabolic disorders, notably diabetes; (5) obesity; (6) smoking; and (7) lack of physical exercise. Each or a combination of these risk factors can contribute to heart disease. Most of them are of dietary origin. Constant worry and tension stimulate the adrenal glands to produce more adrenaline and cortisone. This also contributes to constricted arteries, high blood pressure and increased work for the heart.
Home Remedies
Grapes:
Fresh fruits in general are beneficial in the treatment of heart disease. They tone up the heart Grapes are especially effective in heart pain and palpitation of the heart, and the disease can be rapidly controlled if the patient adopts an exclusive diet of grapes for a few days. Grape juice is particularly valuable when one is actually suffering from a heart attack.
Apple:
Apples have heart-stimulating properties. Patients suffering from a weak heart will benefit greatly by making liberal use of this fruit and apple jam.
Indian Gooseberry:
Indian gooseberry is considered an effective home remedy for heart disease. It tones up the functions of all the organs of the body, and builds up health by destroying the heterogenous elements and renewing lost energy. When the fruit is in season, one medium-sized Indian gooseberry can be taken with a little salt daily; when not in season, dry pieces can be chewed.
Onion: Onions have been found valuable in heart disease. They are useful in normalising the percentage of blood cholesterol by oxidising excess cholesterol. One teaspoon of raw onion juice first thing in the morning is beneficial in such cases.
Honey:
Honey has got marvellous properties to prevent all sorts of heart disease. It tones up the heart and improves the circulation. It is also effective in cardiac pain and palpitation of the heart. One tablespoon daily after food is sufficient to prevent all sorts of heart troubles.
Asparagus:
Asparagus is an excellent food for strengthening the heart. A good medicine for a weak or an enlarged heart is prepared by mixing the freshly extracted juice of this vegetable with honey, in the ratio of 2: I. A teaspoon of this medicine should be taken three times daily. Patients with heart disease will also benefit by steam cooking this vegetable.
Alfalfa:
The herb alfalfa in the form of juice has been found very helpful in most troubles related to the arteries and heart diseases. Only the leaves of the plant are used for this purpose, when they can be obtained fresh. The juice of fresh alfalfa is, however, too strong and potent to be taken by itself. It is best taken with carrot juice in equal quantities of 125 ml each, twice daily. In this combination, the individual benefits of each juice are intensified.
Safflower:
Safflower oil has proved beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol. Hence it can be used liberally with persons suffering from cardiovascular disorders. An emulsion with the trade name Saffioxin-Cipla is used routinely during myocardial infarction, cardiac ischaemia, and hypertension.
Vitamin E:
Patients with heart disease should increase their intake of foods rich in vitamin E, as this vitamin is said to promote heart function by improving oxygenation of the cells. It also improves the circulation and muscle strength. Many whole meal products and green vegetables, particularly outer leaves of cabbage, are good sources of vitamin E.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is also essential as it protects against spontaneous breaches in capillary walls which can lead to heart attacks. It also guards against high blood cholesterol. The stress of anger, fear, disappointment, and similar emotions can raise blood fat and cholesterol levels immediately but this reaction to stress can do little harm if the diet is adequate in vitamin C and pantothenic acid. One of the richest sources of vitamin C is citrus fruits.
Dietary Considerations
The fundamental conditioning factor in all heart diseases is the diet, which should be lacto-vegetarian, and low on sodium and calories. It should consist of high quality, natural organic foods, with emphasis on whole grains, seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Foods which should be eliminated from the diet include white flour products, sweets, chocolates, canned foods in syrup, soft drinks, squashes, tea, coffee, alcohol, and tobacco, and all solid fats of animal origin such as butter, cream, and fatty meats. Salt and sugar should be reduced substantially.
Other Measures
The patient should also pay attention to other laws of nature for health building such as taking moderate exercise, getting proper rest and sleep, and adopting a positive mental attitude.
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COUGH
The air passages of the lungs are lined with cells secreting mucus, which normally traps particles of dust. When the membranes get infected and inflamed, the secretion of mucus increases and the lining of the air passages is irritated. Coughing is the action by which excess mucus is driven out.
Causes and Symptoms
A person who is going to cough first draws a deep breath in. This action causes his glottis to close and his muscles to contract, thus building up pressure in the chest Then suddenly, the glottis opens, an explosive discharge of air sweeps through the air passages and carries with it the excess secretions or, in some cases, foreign matter, which has irritated the larynx, trachea, or bronchi.
A cough may be caused by inflammation of the larynx or the pharynx. A cough can develop in the chest due to change in weather or seasonal changes. The real cause of this disorder, however, is clogging of the bronchial tubes with waste matter. This is due to wrong feeding habits. The reason for higher incidence of cough during winter than in other seasons is that an average person usually eats more of catarrh-forming foods such as white bread, meat, sugar, porridge, puddings, and pies during the colder months of the year. Being over clothed with heavy undergarments and other garments during this period also prevents proper aeration of the skin.
Home Remedies
Grapes:
Grapes are one of the most effective home remedies for the treatment of a cough. Grapes tone up the lungs and act as an expectorant, relieving a simple cold and cough in a couple of days. A cup of grape juice mixed with a teaspoon of honey is advised for cough relief.
Almonds:
Almonds are useful for dry coughs. Seven kernels should be soaked in water overnight and the brown skin removed. They should then be ground well to form a fine paste. A quantity of twenty grams each of butter and sugar should then be added to the paste. This paste should be taken in the morning and evening.
Onion:
The use of raw onion is valuable in a cough. This vegetable should be chopped fine and the juice extracted from it One teaspoon of the juice should then be mixed with one teaspoon of honey and kept for four or five hours-it will make an excellent cough syrup and should be taken twice daily. Onions are also useful in removing phelgm. A medium-sized onion should be crushed, the juice of one lemon added to it, and then one cup of boiling water poured on it. A teaspoon of honey can be added for taste. This remedy should be taken two or three times a day.
Turmeric:
The root of the turmeric plant is useful in a dry cough. The root should be roasted and powdered. This powder should be taken in three gram doses twice daily, in the morning and evening.
Belleric Myroblan:
The herb belleric myroblan is a household remedy for a cough. A mixture comprising two grams of the pulp of the fruit, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1{2 teaspoon of long pepper, and 2 teaspoons of honey should be administered for the treatment of this condition twice daily. The dried fruit covered with wheat flour and roasted, is another popular remedy for cough condition.
Raisins:
A sauce prepared from raisins is also useful in a cough. This sauce is prepared by grinding 100 gm of raisins with water. About 100 gm of sugar should be mixed with it and the mixture heated. When the mixture acquires a sauce-like consistency, it should be preserved. Twenty grams should be taken at bed time daily.
Aniseed:
Aniseed is another effective remedy for a hard dry cough with difficult expectoration. It breaks up the mucus. A tea made from this spice should be taken regularly for treating this condition.
Dietary Considerations
In the case of a severe cough, the patient should fast on orange juice and water till the severity is reduced. The procedure is to take the juice of an orange diluted in a cup of warm water, every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. After the juice fast, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for two or three days. In case of a mild cough, the patient can begin with an all-fruit diet for five to seven days, taking. three meals a day of fresh juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grape-fruit. oranges, pineapples, peaches, and melons. For drinks, unsweetened lemon water, or cold or hot plain water may be given. After the all-fruit diet, the patient should follow a well-balanced diet, with emphasis on whole grain cereals, raw or lightly cooked vegetables, and fresh fruits.
The patient should avoid meats, sugar, tea, coffee, condiments, pickles, refined and processed foods. He should also avoid soft drinks, candies, ice-cream, and all products made from sugar and white flour.
Other Measures
While the cough is severe, a warm-water enema should be used daily to cleanse the bowels.
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CYSTITIS (Inflammation of the Urinary Bladder)
The term 'cystitis' refers to inflammation of the urinary bladder. The recurrence of cystitis may, in some cases, be associated with kidney troubles.
Causes and Symptoms
The patient complains of an almost continual urge to void and a burning sensation on passing urine. There may be a feeling of pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen. The urine may become thick, dark, and stringy. It may have an unpleasant smell and may contain blood or pus. Some pain in the lower back may also be felt in certain cases. In an acute stage, there may be a rise in body temperature. In the chronic form of cystitis, the symptoms are similar but generally less severe and longer lasting, and without a fever.
Cystitis may result from infections in other parts connected with or adjacent to the bladder such as the kidneys, the urethra, the vagina, or the prostate gland. There may be local irritation and inflammation in the bladder if urine is retained there for an unduly long time. Cystitis may also result from severe constipation. Other conditions like an infected kidney, stones in the kidneys or bladder, or an enlarged prostate may also lead to this disorder.
Home Remedies
Cucumber Juice:
Cucumber juice is one of the most useful home remedies in the treatment of cystitis. It is a very effective diuretic. A cup of this juice, mixed with one teaspoon of honey and a tablespoon of fresh lime juice, should be given three times daily.
Drumstick "'lowers:
Fresh juice of the flowers of drumstick is another effective remedy for cystitis. For better results, a teaspoon of the juice, mixed with half a glass of tender coconut water, should be given twice daily. It acts as a diuretic in the treatment of this disease.
Radish Leaves:
The juice of radish leaves is valuable in cystitis. A cup of this juice should be given once daily, in the morning, for a fortnight
Lady's Fingers:
Fresh lady's fingers are useful in cystitis. A decoction made of 100 gm of lady's fingers and 200 ml of water should be taken twice daily in the treatment of this disease.
Spinach:
A quantity of 100 ml of fresh spinach juice, taken with an equal quantity of tender coconut water twice a day, is considered beneficial in the treatment of cystitis. It acts as a very effective and safe diuretic due to the combined action of both nitrates and potassium.
Lemon:
Lemon has proved valuable in cystitis. A teaspoon of lemon juice should be put in 180 ml of boiling water. It should then be allowed to cool and 60 ml of this water should be taken every two hours from 8 a.m. to 12 noon for the treatment of this condition. This eases the burning sensation and also stops bleeding in cystitis.
Barley:
Half a glass each of barley gruel, mixed with buttermilk and the juice of half a lime, is an excellent diuretic. It is beneficial in the treatment of cystitis, and may be taken twice daily.
Sandalwood Oil:
The oil of sandalwood is also considered valuable in this disease. This oil should be given in doses of five drops in the beginning and gradually increased to ten to thirty drops. The efficacy of this oil can be increased by the addition of one teaspoon of ajwain mixed in a glass of water, or ten grams of ginger mixed in a cup water.
Dietary Considerations
At the onset of acute cystitis, it is essential to withhold all solid foods immediately. If there is fever, the patient should fast on water or tender coconut water for three or four days. If there is no fever, raw vegetable juices, especially carrot juice, should be taken every two or three hours. Half a glass of carrot juice should be mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken at a time. For the next two to three days, only ripe fruits may be taken three or four times daily.
After the all-fruit diet, the patient may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, with emphasis on seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. The patient should avoid refined carbohydrates and salt with food and in cooking.
Other Measures
During the first three or four days of acute cystitis, when the patient is on a liquid diet, it is advisable to rest and keep warm. Pain can be relieved by immersing the pelvis in hot water.Alternatively, heat can be applied to the abdomen, by using a towel wrung out in hot water and covering it with a dry towel to retain warmth. This treatment may be continued for three or four days, by which time the inflammation should have subsided and the temperature returned to normal.
During the next two or three days of an all-fruit diet, cold compresses should be applied to the abdomen. While the hot compresses are intended to relieve pain, the use of cold water compresses is most valuable in relieving pelvic congestion and increasing the activity of the skin. Care should, however, be taken to ensure that compresses do not cause chilling.
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