About Ayurveda

Benefits of aloe vera for hair

Aloe veera or aloe barbadensis contains over 100 traceable nutrients.

1. Aloe promotes hair growth

According to university of Hawaii researchers, we can trace the use of aloe vera for hair loss back to the ancient Egyptians. In fact aloe vera contains enzymes that directly promote healthy hair growth. These proteolitic enzymes are able to eradicate dead skin cells on the scalp that could be clogging the hair follicle, not allowing for the proper penetration of nutrients in the hair.

Conditions like seborrhoea, which occurs from an accumulation of sebum on the scalp, can contribute to partial baldness. Aoe vera’s keratolic action breaks down the sebum and dead scalp cells, allowing for further hair growth. Also aloe vera's alkalizing properties can help bring the scalp and hair‘s ph to a more desirable level resulting in further hair growth promotion while helping the hair retain water and moisture.

2. Anti pruride properties

These are those that can alleviate itching and dryness. Pruritus ailments include vexing skin and scalp issues, like psoriasis and eczema. Psoriasis is an auto immune disease characterised by the excessive production of skin cells. Recall aloe vera‘s enzymatic properties enabling aloe to destroy excessive dead skin cells while conditioning the skin and scalp.

Since excessive skin cell production is at the heart of psoriasis existence, you could see why aloe is able help eliminate this issue. Aloe can also reduce the redness, scaling. itching and inflammation of scalp psoriasis, which directly benefits the hair as well.

In a study reported in Archives of dermatology, more than: 80% of psoriasis patients treated with aloe veera showed improvement.

3. Anti- inflammatory benefits

Historically one of the primary uses of aloe vera has been reduce redness and inflammation both internally and externally. In fact aloe vera has long been used on burns and external wounds as an anti sceptic to reduce swelling, and eliminate bacteria.

The ingredients responsible for this calming property bradykinesia and analgesic anti inflammatic enzyme as well as salicylic acid which is like aspirin compound with anti inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-bacterial properties.

4. Reduces Dandruff

Because of the aforementioned enzymatic breakdown of dead skin cells from Aloe Vera, this multifunctional plant has also been used for the treatment of dandruff. There could be many underlying causes of dandruff (like the previously mentioned conditions), but most doctors attribute its existence to malassezia, a fat-eating fungus that can live on the scalp.

Luckily, in addition to breaking down the dead skin cells, Aloe Vera also has anti-fungal properties. This is because fungus thrives in an acidic environment, and the alkalizing attributes of Aloe Vera counters a proactive fungal environment, disallowing further growth and buildup.

5. Conditions Hair & Scalp

In addition to soothing and eradicating any skin and scalp problems, the benefits of Aloe Vera for Hair as a great conditioning agent is amazing. The gel-like substance of the aloe barbadensis leaf gives it a similar chemical composition of keratin, the naturally occurring protein in hair cells. This structural similarity allows for easier penetration along the entire length of the hair shaft.

We can credit these penetration properties to the lignins found in Aloe Vera, the major structural material of the cellulose content. It has been proven that the skin can absorb the benefits of Aloe Vera up to 7 layers deep.

Since our scalps are more absorbent than our skin, can you imagine the conditioning benefits available to the scalp? The combination of Aloe Vera’s 20 amino acids (which are the building blocks of hair and scalp) also adds both strength and luster to the hair.

Nardostachys (Jatamansi)
Jatamansi description

Jatamansi is a natural brain nervine tonic and a memory enhancer, which has calming, peacefulness and relaxation features. Nardostachys Jatamansi is a known calming herb in Ayurveda and Unani because of its medicinal values. A number of studies have been done for its efficacy in respect of nervous system. In ayurveda, it is prescribed against stress, spasm, epilepsy, convulsion and hysteria. In fact, it is one of the excellent herbs to treat epilepsy. The relaxing herb is known by different names like Jatamansi, spikenard, nard, nardin, muskroot, balchar, sumbul-ut-teeb, sambul lateeb. Jatamansi is consisted of two words: Jata means dread locks and manasi indicates towards human. It comes under the family of Valerianaceae.

It has been found in the Himalayan region.

Amazing benefits of Jatamansi
1. Hair growth

The extract of jatamansi oil is helpful in the growth of hair. It is beneficial for smooth, silky and healthy hair too. It is used to improve complexion and ensures glowing and shining looks to the body. The root of the powder in water when applied promotes skin texture.

2. AYUSH-56

It is an amalgam of Nardostachys jatamansi and Marsilea minuta with the ratio of 1:2. It is used as anti-epileptic.

3. Cardiac health

It ensures good cardiac condition as observed in mice.

4. Memory and learning

The medicinal plant is helpful in enhancing the faculties of the brain and combats the mental problems thus impart calm and peace to mind. It is one of the effective medicinal roots to subsidies the three humors-Vatta, Pitta and Kapha and provides delightful state to the doshas of the body.

5. Strengthens the nervous system

It helps to provide vitality, vigor and strength to the body thus good for the nervous system.

6. Stress buster

The plant has the power to reduce stress, anxiety and tension by balancing biochemical reactions in the body. It is good to have the mind cool and healthy and acts as one of the finest mind rejuvenator tonic. It facilitates sound sleeping thus good for those who have stressful life.

7. Skin infection

The burning sensation of skin and inflammation get subsidized when the decoction of Jatamansi powder prepared in cold water is applied.

8. Liver problems

It shows hepatoprotective effects along with momordica charantia and ferula asafetida.

9. Antidepressant

The extract of N. jatamansi show anti-depressant features

10. Antifungal

The essential oil of it acts against fungus like Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger.

Best uses of Jatamansi

1. It is used to impart black colour to hair and prevents greying of hair. Its medicated oil with almond is highly useful for Smooth and silky hair.

2. It is beneficial for hyperactive children and helpful to reduce hyperactivity, restlessness and aggressiveness.

3. It is therapeutically very important, alleviates pain and swelling and shows the properties like carminative and aromatic.

4. It has hepatoprotective characteristics thus useful in hepatitis, prevent enlargement of liver and jaundice.

5. The oil helps to relax and calm the body and mind thereby ensures to relieve from headache and migraine.

6. Its underground stem is used in preparation of powerful aromatic essential oil.

7. The root of the plant is used in making of oil to treat insomnia and birth related problems.

8. It is used as analgesic and diuretic in Unani.

9. Used as making of perfumes and dies.

10. The root of the powder is used to treat intestinal worms.

Side effects of Jatamansi

1. People suffering from hypersensitivity should avoid the using of it.

2. Consuming excess of jatamansi leads to vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

3. It may also cause urinary problems if it is taken in excess.

4. Nausea and colic is also common if heavy doses are given.

5. Pregnant as well as lactating mother should avoid it.

Chemical composition of Jatamansi

The different bio-chemical substances that are found in this medicinal plant are ursolie acid, acacin, kanshone A, octacosanol, nardosinone, nardosinonediol, aristolen-9beta-ol, oleanolic acid, beta-sitosterol. It also contains nardal, jatamansic acid, jatamol A &B, spirojatamol, terpenoid, neolignans, taraxerone, valeranone, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, syringic acid and photocatechuic acid.

Ayurvedic features

The different ayurvedic characteristics of the plant are given as below:

Taste (Rasa): bitter, astringent and sweet

Charateristics (Guna):light

Potency (Virya): Cool & calm .

Digestive effect (Vipaka): pungent

Humor (Effects on Tridoshas): cool all the three doshas: Vatta, Pitta and Kapha

Benefits of eclipta alba. (bhringraj)

Hair related problems like hair loss, premature greying and baldness have become rampant among people of all age groups caused due to various factors like dietary changes and environmental pollutants that cause baldness in young men as young as twenty-five.

However, these problems are not irreversible as there are ways and means of rejuvenating hair follicles and stimulating growth. Despite a number of remedies available in the markets, these do not produce the desired long-term effects.

Furthermore, containing harsh chemicals with side effects, these cause permanent damage. However, safe and effective, simple natural cures producing long standing permanent results help regain the splendour and beauty of the locks promoting rich growth and keeping them naturally healthy. The principles of Ayurveda, have given us simple remedies for numerous physical conditions, making maximum use of nature’s wonderful gifts of herbs. One such valuable herb is the Eclipta Alba or Bhringraj offering a multitude of benefits for health and beauty.

Hair Growth Cycle

The hair growth cycle comprises of three stages, with the average pattern of hair on the scalp ranging to about a lakh, growing at a rate of half an inch each month. This is the anagen phase with the hair follicles on the scalp lasting somewhere between three to five years. However, after a resting period of few years, known as the catagen phase, the hair starts dropping once again. This followed by the tenogen phase, results in growth by 85% while the remaining hair continues to rest. Nonetheless during the resting period there is a substantial amount of hair loss ranging from somewhere between fifty to hundred strands per day. After the resting period, the hair sheds and there is new growth of hair commencing a new hair cycle.

Effects of Eclipta Alba on Hair Growth Cycle

Studies indicate that Eclipta Alba stimulates and rapidly increases growth of hair follicles, much more than normal, when hair reaches the telogen phase. The extracts of the Eclipta Alba leaf consists of powerful antihepatotoxin substances namely, desmethylwedelolactone and wedelolactone including ecliptines ursolic acid and stigmasterol.These substances constitute the revitalizing properties that cause rapid hair growth with similar effects as minoxidil for addresSing several hair related problems, without the side effects of minoxidil though.

Prevents and Helps Reverse Premature Grey Hair

The herb is valuable in treating premature greying of hair and helps regain lost colour and arrest the greying process. Regular use of this herb prevents greying for prolonged periods.

Prevents Dry Hair and ImprovesTexture

Apart from these factors, Eclipta Alba augments hair texture and makes the strands smooth soft and manageable preventing dry, damaged and frizzy hair.

Stimulates and Rejuvenates Hair Growth

The herb penetrates into the scalp effectively, unclog blocked pores breathing new life into dull damaged lifeless hair by stimulating hair follicles.

Prevents Premature Baldness

Alopecia areata, a dermatological disorder with various psychological impact leads to irregular balding that occurs in patches. Owing to its unique properties, Eclipta Alba prevents such conditions and helps rejuvenate hair growth by stimulating the follicles and helps hair grow in bald patches.

Acacia concinna ( Shikakai)
What is Shikakai?

Shikakai (literally translates to "hair-fruit" or "fruit for hair") is a shrub-like tree that grows in central India. It has been used for centuries as a cleanser for hair, body, and pretty much anywhere else a cleanser might come in handy. What sets this plant apart from the rest is that Shikakai actually lathers moderately because its bark has saponins, which foam up when shaken in water, similar to soap.

Shikakai is very high in vitamin C as well as Vitamins A, D, E, and K, antioxidants which are essential for healthy and rapid hair growth. These vitamins provide the hair follicles with the necessary micronutrients to help hair grow fast and healthy.

Shikakai looks very similar to tamarind. Its seed comes inside a pod. The seed, or fruit, is then dried, mixed with the leaves and bark, and ground into a very fine powder. That's the reason the shampoo also lathers. This powder is then made into a paste and applied to hair.

The good news is that we no longer have to make our own powder. We can just buy it and follow these instructions. But before you go and buy your own bottle, let’s examine the benefits of shikakai.

Shikakai Benefits: A Quick Look

1. Shikakai has been used for hundreds of years in India as a shampoo and body wash.

2. Shikakai bark has saponines, which make the powder foam up much like soap.

3. Shikakai is known to promote hair growth, beauty, and strength.

4. Shikakai has low pH levels, which means it won't strip hair of its natural oils.

The Benefits of Shikakai

One of the greatest benefits of using Shikakai as a regular cleanser is that it is all natural, so you won’t have to worry about any harsh chemicals seeping into your body. But there are many other benefits, such as:

1. Shikakai has very low pH levels, which means your hair won’t be stripped of its natural oils.

2. Works as a shampoo and detangler at the same time. Since shikakai does not strip your hair of its natural oils, there's less chances of your hair getting all tangled up.

3. Prevents and eliminates dandruff.

4. Nourishes hair, making it grow faster and stronger.

5. Can be used as shampoo, face cleanser, and body soap. This means there will be less bottles taking up precious shower space.

6. Strengthens and conditions hair.

7. Keeps hair moisturized and shiny.

8. Protects the scalp from fungal infections and even hair lice.

9. Helps delay the appearance of gray hairs.

10. Strengthens hair roots..

Trigonella foenum-graecum (methi)

Fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an annual plant in the family Fabaceae, with leaves consisting of three small obovate to oblong leaflets. It is cultivated worldwide as a semiarid crop, and its seeds are a common ingredient in dishes from the Indian subcontinent.

Uses of Fenugreek seeds for Hair fall and Hair loss and Hair regrowth

Methi seeds also called as methi dana or fenugreek seeds are extremely beneficial in hair fall, hair loss etc. These fenugreek seeds have great capabilities of hair regrowth. Methi seeds can be used and applied as hair mask/pack, with hair oil or as a paste. Whichever way you use fenureek, it gives benefits in controlling hair fall, preventing premature white/ greys, making hair roots stronger and enhancing the hair texture in general. Let’s read some uses of fenugreek seeds to fight various hair problems.

Benefits of applying (methi dana) fenugreek seeds paste

1. It controls the hair fall.

2. This treatment shows some good results in hair regrowth.

3. It makes hair shinier and thicker than before.

4. It cures scalp infections.

Benefits of using fenugreek seeds infused with oil

1. This oil helps cure hair loss and hair fall

2. It makes hair roots stronger.

3. It shows good results in premature hair greying.

4. Hair becomes smoother and manageable

5. It cures dry itchy scalp and dandruff

Benefits of this use of fenugreek seeds with egg yolk tratment

1. It Makes hair dtronger

2. Hair becomes silkier and shinier

3. Helps in hair loss

4. Promotes hair growth

5. Treats dandruff and dry itchy scalp

Hedychium spicatum ( Kapur Kachri)

1. Has antioxidant and restorative properties

2. Contains a high level of phenolics (antioxidants) and alpha tocopherol (a form of vitamin E)

3. Is a herbal remedy that promotes hair growth by stimulating the roots

4. Makes hair grow thicker

5. Has conditioning properties when used with Ghassoul, Shikakai and Reetha (Aritha) powder.

6. Has antiseptic properties benefitting to the scalp.

7. Helps to detangle the hair

8. Adds shine and gives a pleasant fragrance to hair.

Emblica officinalis (amla)
Amazing Benefits of Amla For Hair

Amla, an excellent hair tonic, has played a key role in long, thick, and beautiful hair of Indian women. This wonderful berry acts as a natural conditioner, minimizes hair loss and greying, and encourages strong and healthy hair growth.

Promotes Hair Growth

With its unique array of antioxidants, amla supplements can help get rid of cell damaging free radicals that can cause hair fall, greying, wrinkles, heart disease, and other age related changes. Antioxidants play an important role in neutralizing these free radicals and act as protective and preventive agents. A recent scientific study, which investigated free radical scavenging properties of amla, showed it to provide strong antioxidant protection against these damaging atoms.

Besides, the phytonutrients, minerals, and vitamins present in the amla help strengthen hair follicles, increase scalp circulation, and stimulate healthy new growth.

Reduces Hair greying

According to ayurveda premature greying usually occurs due to excess pitta in the body some of the signs of excess pitta include, skin rashes, burning sensations, peptic ulcers, excessive body heat, and heartburn. Amla, a natural coolant, is an excellent remedy to pacify pitta conditions, and thereby reduce greying.

Amla also helps to renew pigmentation in hair and makes it darker and thicker. It has been used as an effective ingredient in natural hair dyes and other hair nourishing products.

Helps with Dandruff and Scalp Conditions

With immense healing properties amla aid in healthy scalp maintenance. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and astringent properties that help prevent inflammatory scalp condition and keep dandruff away. In addition, the cooling effect of amla helps to relieve redness, irritation, and itchiness, and promote the healing of skin.

Excellent Hair Conditioner

Amla is one of the world’s oldest hair conditioners. When used as a hair rinse, it nourishes, conditions, and adds amazing shine and luster to your hair. In addition, due to chelating action of amla, this rinse works very well in hard water and help remove cal deposits or product build-up, leaving your hair incredibly clean and healthy looking.

Amla oil is another excellent way to deep condition your hair. Use it as a pre-wash conditioner, do it once and trust me you will want to do it again.

Sesamum indicum (til tel)
Black Sesame Seeds Reverse Greying & Promote Healthy Hair

In traditional Chinese Medicine black sesame seeds are considered as one of the best anti- aging foods. With a rich nutty flavor, sesame has one of the highest oil content of any seed. They come in different varieties and may be black, brown, red, and tan in colour. The nutritional composition of all sesame seeds is almost similar. Except that black variety has exceptionally high amount of antioxidants and anti-aging benefits.

Sesame seeds are a good source of hair nourishing vitamins and minerals such as copper, manganese, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin B1, amino acids, selenium, and dietary fiber. Plus, these tiny seeds also contain natural antioxidants – sesamin, sesamolin, and sesamol.

Research suggests that antioxidants present in the black sesame seeds can counteract or neutralize the effect of free radicals that damage cells and cause aging (including grey hair). Chinese medicine believe that black sesame seeds have great medicinal value and are good at nourishing the kidney and liver and promoting hair growth and hair colour. According to the Chinese science, the hair is nourished by the blood and the skin receives moisture from the body’s Yin. So when there is deficiency in the Yin and the blood, it will affect the hair and the skin, causing hair loss, greying, and dry or itchy skin. Black sesame seed provides nourishment to the Yin and the Blood, thereby resolving the root cause. Along with nourishing the scalp and stimulating hair growth, black sesame seeds can promote melanocyte activity to produce melanin - the pigment responsible for hair and skin colour.

Lawsonia inermis (heena)

Commercially packaged henna, intended for use as a cosmetic hair dye, is available in many countries, and is now popular in India, as well as the Middle East, Europe, Australia, Canada. and the United States. The color that results from dying with henna depends on the original color of the hair, as well as the quality of the henna, and can range from orange to auburn to burgundy. Henna can be mixed with other natural hair dyes including Cassia Obovata for lighter shades of red or even blond, or with indigo to achieve brown andblack shades. Some products sold as "henna" include these other natural dyes. Others may include metal salts that can interact with other chemical treatments, or oils and waxes that may inhibit the dye, or even chemical dyes which are common allergens. Any product that comes in a cream, block, or paste form has some sort of additives.

Benefits of Henna for Hair:

Henna is a good source for people who wanted to get rid of their gray hair, and for people who are allergic to chemical cremes. Generally most of us use Henna for protecting our hair from sun and dust. Henna can make your hair strong and nourish it from roots for a silky and shiny hair.

1. Applying henna pack twice a month makes hair glossy, healthy and voluminous.

2. It repairs the damaged hair strands and restores the acid-alkaline balance of the scalp.

3. It is an amazing conditioner for hair that protects the hair strands by building a protective layer and locking the nutrients and moisture.

4. It is the best and safest way to color your hair that has no ammonia, chemicals, and toxins.

5. Henna can be used to treat dandruff and scalp infections effectively.

Azadirachta indica (neem)

From hair growth to dandruff, neem oil is the nature’s cure for your scalp and hair problems. Neem oil is extracted from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree, a large-sized evergreen tree, which is known in the Indian sub-continent since antiquities.

The name neem comes from the Sanskrit* word ‘nimba’, which means sprinkler of nectar. An important part of traditional Indian medicine, neem has been used to treat various skin and scalp conditions, reduce swelling and inflammation, get rid of parasites, and help with many other illness. Neem contains more than 35 biologically active ingredients and has many medicinal properties. Here’s how neem can help you get a healthy scalp and hair.

6 Wonderful Benefits of Neem Oil for Hair and Scalp
l. Promotes Hair Growth

With extraordinarily high levels of antioxidants - a lot more than those found in blueberries or spinach - neem oil protects the scalp skin from ongoing damage that is caused by the free radicals. Neem also has regenerative properties that support healthy cell division and stimulate hair follicle growth and function.

Regular application of the neem oil will promote thicker, stronger, and more luxurious hair growth.

2. Conditions dry, under-nourished hair

Neem oil contains several fatty acids - such as linoleic, oleic, stearic acids - that nourish and condition the scalp and hair. It’s moisturizing effects revitalizes and restores dry, under- nourished or rough hair to a smooth, silky texture.

For deep conditioning, massage through the scalp and hair with fingertips. Cover hair with hot towel (not too hot that it hurts, but tolerable) and allow to penetrate the hair for 20 minutes or so. Wash as usual. Your hair will become shiny, healthy and more manageable.

3. Helps with dandruff and itching

Neem oil is effective against several human fungi including candida, which is one of the major cause of dandruff. Also when you have dandruff there is some underlying inflammation going on that makes the scalp red and irritated. Inevitably, neem oil will take care of everything as along with anti-fungal properties, it also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects that help with redness and scalp irritation.

Use this potent oil to get rid of dandruff or even as preventive measure, in case you are prone to getting it.

4. Relieves Eczema symptoms

Eczema or dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, dry, red; flaking and crusting skin. Nimbidin, an anti-inflammatory substances in the neem acts similar to non-steroidal drug (phenylbutazone) and helps reduce the redness and irritation. In addition, neem oil is rich in fatty acids and glycerides that easily penetrates the outer layers of the skin, and restores the protective barrier, thus preventing the moisture loss.

Neem is also a strong analgesic (pain-killer). So, it will bring relief from the excruciating discomfort caused by dry itchy eczema skin. And its strong antiseptic and antibacterial will help to keep bacteria and secondary skin infections at bay.

5. Keeps your scalp healthy

Also touted as scalp savior, its immense healing properties - anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral - help to keep the scalp skin in good health. Plus, neem oil is also considered as cooling, soothing and astringent in nature. Using neem oil on a regular basis on your scalp will regulate the secretion of sebum (scalp’s natural oil) and also work to normalize oily or dry scalp conditions. Due to its high medicinal value and emollient qualities, neem oil is often used in skin and scalp care products.

6. Get Rids of Head Lice

Neem oil is one of the best home remedy to treat head lice and nits. Neem contains azadirachtin, an insecticidal ingredient, which disrupts the growth and reproduction of lice, and so it will eventually kill them. Plus, the other ingredients in neem inhibit the swallowing system of lice, thus reducing their appetite to the point of starvation. In addition, the pungent odor of neem oil is strongly disliked by lice, thus keep them away from crawling into your head. Thus, you can also use this oil as a preventive treatment.

Tregnella foenum graecum (common name: Fenugreek)

Fenugreek is popularly known as methi in India is an excellent organic curative that helps to lose weight and maintain a slim and trim physique. Exemplifying the fenugreek benefits for weight loss, there are several ways to use seeds of the herb for burning excessive flab.

Fenugreek is rich in soluble fiber, which is known for promoting weight loss, by causing your digestive tract to expand. This effect can make you feel full and goes a long way to controlling your appetite better. Fenugreek seeds therefore aids in controlling and quelling hunger cravings by offering you the feeling of fullness after you’ve partaken of a balanced meal. Methi seeds are rich in fibers 75% of which are water soluble that allay constipation by boosting up metabolic rate thereby speeding up fat burning leading to overall weight reduction. Furthermore, the thermogenic herb complements exercise and weight loss efforts by increasing energy in the short term and potentially modulating carbohydrate metabolism. As noted earlier, it also reduces blood sugar levels after eating.

Fenugreek is richly imbued with a compound known as ‘galactomannan’, a good polysaccharide that boosts metabolism of sugar and fat breakdown thereby helping in meltdown of excess fatty deposits.

Vitamin C in fenugreek acts a super antioxidant helping to flush out free radicals and toxins from the body which again triggers metabolism thus accelerating the mechanism of fat melting. Fenugreek assists in the breakdown of calories and contains a very small proportion of healthy carbohydrates that checks unmitigated weight gain.

Methi seeds contain a compound called diosgenin. A study headed by T. Uemura reported in the Sept. 1, 2010 issue of the "Alternative Medicine Review" found diosgenin in methi seeds improved glucose metabolism and reduced the number of fat cells in rats. According to a report published in the "Karnataka Journal of Agricultural Science," in August 2009, scientists from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, India, added ground methi seeds to chapati flour - chapati is flat bread popular in India. This increased the protein and fiber content, and decreased the sugar content and glycemic index of the bread. Foods with a low glycemic index are slowly assimilated, produce a steady flow of energy less likely to add to your fat stores.

An animal study published in "Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry" in 2005 found that fenugreek seed extract reduced weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. It also helped limit increases in triglycerides. More research is necessary to verify whether fenugreek can help limit weight gain in people as well as animals.

A small study published in the "European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" in May 2010 found that overweight people who took fenugreek seed extract for six weeks ate less fat than those who were given a placebo. In this preliminary study, however, this didn't lead to a significant difference in weight loss. Further larger and longer-term studies are needed to verify these effects and determine whether fenugreek can affect weight loss.

Commiphora mukul (guggul)

Guggul extract contains a plant sterol called guggulsterone, which appears to offer anti- tumor, anti-angiogenic and cholesterol-lowering actions. Guggulsterone also seems to influence estrogen, pregnane and progesterone receptors.

Guggul appears to promote weight loss by affecting thyroid to stimulate metabolism and other key bodily actions, says the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. In addition to improving weight loss, guggul may also improve mood.

The guggulsterone content of guggul may have lipid-lowering properties; it is believed that guggulsterones inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol in the body while also speeding up the degradation and excretion of cholesterol. More specifically, guggul reduces the production of cholesterol in the liver, and guggulsterone can block the oxidation of LDL. Instead, guggul enhances the activities of receptors that bind LDL in the liver and, therefore, increases the rate at which LDL is broken down into simpler and safer compounds. Besides LDL, guggul also lowers serum triglycerides and VLDL (very low density lipoproteins) cholesterol while increasing the levels of HDL (high density lipoproteins) or “good” cholesterol.

By a different mechanism, guggul drives out more cholesterol with the faecal excretion of bile acids. In addition, it reduces the absorption of fats and cholesterol from the intestines. Furthermore, guggul possesses antioxidant properties useful for preventing the oxidation of lipids. Fat oxidation usually produces a number of reactive oxygen species that can cause cellular and tissue damage. To produce this antioxidant protection, guggul reduces the activities of enzymes such as lipid peroxidase and xanthine oxidase. These enzymes are key to lipid oxidation. On the other hand, guggul increases the activity of superoxide dismutase which is useful for mopping up reactive oxygen species.

The effect of guggul on thyroid hormones is another way in which it can help reduce body weight.Guggul increases the production of the 2 thyroid hormones: triiodothyronine or T3 and thyroxine or T4. These are thermogenic Compounds that increase metabolism and help the body burn some of its stored fats. Besides enhancing the breakdown of fats, these thyroid hormones also speed up carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis.

The sum effect of guggul is to increase metabolic rate by stimulating the production of thyroid hormones while stimulating the liver to increase the metabolism and excretion of LDL cholesterol.

Garcinia cambogia

Garcinia cambogia, a tropical fruit also known as the Malabar tamarind, is a popular weight- loss supplement. It blocks your body's ability to make fat and it puts the brakes on your appetite. It could help keep blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check, too.

How It Works

The active ingredient in the fruit's rind, hydroxycitric acid, or HCA, has boosted fat-buming and cut back appetite in studies. It appears to block an enzyme called citrate lyase, which your body uses to make fat. It also raises levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which may make you feel less hungry.

It has been shown to affect appetite and weight regulation in two ways:

1. Fat Production

It blocks the fat-producing enzyme Citrate lyase. This makes it harder for the body to produce fat.

2. Cravings

It increases levels of the hormone serotonin in the brain. This can theoretically lead to reduced appetite and fewer cravings.

Whatever the mechanism is, animal studies on garcinia cambogia repeatedly show that it causes major weight loss and reductions in belly fat. It also lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, reduces inflammation and improves antioxidant status.

Erase Food Cravings and Permanently Boost Your Metabolism

1. Permanently increase metabolism and overcome frustrating weight loss, “plateaus,” and avoid embarrassing rebound weight gain.

2. Drastically decrease food cravings and say good-bye to over-eating and uncontrollably eating unhealthy junk foods.

3. The “happy” chemical serotonin is naturally released when taking Garcinia Cambogia, making it easy to eat only when hungry instead of emotional binge eating when stressed or depressed.

Colchicum luteum

Colchicum Luteum is known by the name of colchicicum in English, Suranjan in Sanskrit and Hirantutiya in Hindi. It belongs to the family of Liliaceae.

The common names of the plant are autumn crocus and meadow saffron.

The corms of the plant are usually used to make natural medicines.

It is known to be Kapha and Vata suppressant. These are the principle stabilizing energies that govern the body as well as the mind. It is connected with the structure, lubrication, fluid balance and stability of the entire human body.

Colchicum Luteum is known for its pain relieving properties that also help in relieving wounds.

Colchicum helps in preventing indigestion and work as a laxative that relieves constipation. This medicinal herb is helpful for all kinds of liver and spleen related problems. It purifies the blood and acts as diuretic. This plant is also advised by naturalists for patients who suffer from any condition related to the urination.

Anethum Sowa

Anethum Sowa is called Sowa in India. It is also called Dill in a few regions of the world. The biennial herb has a smooth surface with fine dissected leaves.

THERAPEUTIC POWERS OF ANETHUM SOWA

The Anethum Sowa leaves are stimulant in nature. They are used to increase secretion and release of urine. It is also helpful in relieving spasmodic disorders. It is a comforting medicine that helps the stomach functions. The Anethum Sowa herb is known to be:

1. Carminative in nature

2. Contains deodorant like properties

3. Thermogenic

4. Digestive

5. Anti inflammatory properties

6. Expectorant

7. Cardiac tonic

8. Febrifuge

9. Anti dysenteric in nature

The oil in Dill seeds has mild antibacterial properties which can be helpful in destroying the intestinal micro-organisms that cause ulcers and intestinal problems, and German health authorities have approved Dill as a treatment for bacterial-related intestinal complaints. Some studies have found that Dill oil can relax the smooth muscles in the intestine, which can help relieve colicky abdominal pain. Eating the seeds after meals aids in digestion and sweetens the breath. Dipping your fingers in Dill tea can strengthen them.

Piper retrofractum

It is a creeper with bright red fruiting spikes. Known botanically Piper retrofracutum properties of Chavya are similar to that of pipali mool. Being even less effective than kali marich or black pepper , Chavya is an important herb as it checks diseases like gulma visceral diseases, pain abdomen and enlargement of spleen.Chavya improves appetite, pungent in taste and generates heat. It is digestive and is easy to digest. It is rough in nature but helps to break the hardened faeces and cures kapha and vata disease. Chavya helps to relieve abdominal distension.

Chavya helps in proper secretion of bile juices from liver and digestive juices from digestive lining. These functions benefit a lot in hemorrhoids and fistula. It corrects the metabolism at tissue level which makes it beneficial for weight loss and rheumatic conditions. It induces proper secretion of digestive juices so it is very useful in loss of taste and indigestion.

It improves the working of the liver. It also corrects the metabolism thus benefits in metabolic disorders like obesity, rheumatic conditions etc.

Zanthoxylum armatum

With the botanical name Zanthoxylum armatum, the Winged Prickly Ash tree is a member of the Citrus family Rutaceae. Tomar tree is indigenous to Eastern Asia. to China along the Himalayas and. few other parts of India. The essential oil is extracted from the seeds of this tree through steam distillation method. The naturally spicy, warm, woody, peppery, rich and floral aroma has made its use remarkable since the pre-historic period.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Tomar Seed Oil: Ayurveda strongly believes that human beings are a part of nature and the remedy for their illness should also be from nature. Ayurvedic principles state that the universe is made up of five elements like fire, water. Earth, air and ether. Human. body also has these five fundamental elements as a combination of doshas or the individual body types namely vata, pitta and kapha. A healthy lifestyle and harmony with nature’s law of living aids an individual to live a long, healthy and harmonious life according to Ayurveda.

Ayurveda states that the tree of Tomar known as Tumburu or Gandhalu in the Ayurvedic world is yet another significant gift of nature to mankind. The essential oil extracted from the seeds of this tree are said to have healing properties like antiseptic. Hepatoprotective, stomachic, disinfectant, deodorant, anthelmintic and carminative.

Effectiveness in treating hepatic diseases: Human liver is the major organ for governing the process of metabolism, excretion and certain other physiologic activities of the body. The most common disorder that affects the liver is hepatic diseases. Such hepatic damages are mainly due to toxins in the food, pharmaceuticals like CNS active agents and antibiotics, peroxides in edible oils, hepatotoxic chemicals like alcohol and certain other environmental pollutants. Ayurvedic medication has explored numerous natural remedies for treating liver diseases, which are still in use in many parts of India since centuries. When compared to modern medications like immunosuppressive agents and corticosteroids, these natural Ayurvedic remedies are claimed to grant better relief in a longer run.

Tomar seed oil is said to possess antioxidant properties and it also contains phenolic compounds. It is a proven fact that plants that contain antioxidant property is also said to exhibit hepatoprotective action. A renowned study on ‘Hepatoprotective Effect of Zanthoxylum armatum DC ’ proved that the presence of ethanolic extracts in Zanthoxylum armatum showed hepatoprotective effect against liver damage by regularizing the increased levels of the hepatic enzymes and showed shielding effect on the plasma membrane of hepatocytes. This proved the effectiveness of using this herb in Ayurvedic treatment for liver disorders.