YOGA

Yoga Therapy


The Yoga Therapy or ‘ yoga-chikitsa’ refers to the treatment of diseases by means of yogic


exercises which may be physical or mental or both. It is a specialised form of yogic culture. This


mode of treatment has been practised in India from very ancient times. Many references to yoga


have been made in the Upanishads. It was, however, Maharishi Patanjali who in about the first


century B.C. gave a systematic account of the traditional yogic teaching.


The term ‘ Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yug’ which means "to join" . It signifies union


between the individual soul (jivatma) and the universal soul (parmatma). It aims at obtaining


relief from pain and suffering. Basically, human evolution takes place on three different planes,


namely physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga is a means of attaining perfect health by maintaining


harmony and achieving optimum functioning on all three levels through complete self-control.

Lessons in Yoga Exercises

Lessons In Yoga Exercises
On asanas.
1. Salutation to Âdinatha (Siva) who expounded the knowledge of
Hatha Yoga, which like a staircase leads the aspirant to the high
pinnacled Raja Yoga.
2. Yogin Swatmarama, after saluting his Gurû Srinatha explains
Hatha Yoga for the attainment of Raja Yoga.
3. Owing to the darkness arising from the multiplicity of opinions
people are unable to know the Raja Yoga. Compassionate
Swatmarama composes the Hatha Yoga Pradipika like a torch to
dispel it.
4. Matsyendra, Goraksa, etc., knew Hatha Vidya, and by their favor
Yogi Swatmarama also learnt it from them.
5. The following Siddhas (masters) are said to have existed in
former times:- Sri Adinatha (Siva), Matsyendra, Natha, Sabar,
Anand, Bhairava, Chaurangi, Mina Natha, Goraksanatha, Virupaksa,
Bilesaya.
6. Manthana, Bhairava, Siddhi Buddha, Kanthadi, Karantaka,
Surananda, Siddhipada, Charapati.
7. Kaneri, Pujyapada, Nityanatha, Niranjana, Kapali, Vindunatha,
Kaka Chandiswara.
8. Allama, Prabhudeva, Ghoda, Choli, Tintini, Bhanuki, Nardeva,
Khanda Kapalika, etc.
9. These Mahasiddhas (great masters), breaking the sceptre of
death, are roaming in the universe.
10. Like a house protecting one from the heat of the sun, Hatha
Yoga protects its practisers from the burning heat of the three
Tapas; and, similarly, it is the supporting tortoise, as it were, for
those who are constantly devoted to the practice of Yoga.
11. A yogi desirous of success should keep the knowledge of Hatha
Yoga secret; for it becomes potent by concealing, and impotent by
exposing.
12. The Yogi should practice Hatha Yoga in a small room, situated in
a solitary place, being 4 cubits square, and free from stones, fire,
water, disturbances of all kinds, and in a country where justice is
properly administered, where good people live, and food can be
obtained easily and plentifully.
13. The room should have a small door, be free from holes,
hollows, neither too high nor too low, well plastered with cow-dung
and free from dirt, filth and insects. On its outside there should be
bowers, raised platform (chabootra), a well, and a compound.
These characteristics of a room for Hatha Yogis have been
described by adepts in the practice of Hatha.
14. Having seated in such a room and free from all anxieties, he
should practice Yoga, as instructed by his gurû .
15. Yoga is destroyed by the following six causes:-- Over-eating,
exertion, talkativeness, adhering to rules, i.e., cold bath in the
morning, eating at night, or eating fruits only, company of men, and
unsteadiness.
16. The following six bring speedy success:-- Courage, daring,
perseverance, discriminative knowledge, faith, aloofness from
company.
17. The ten rules of conduct are: ahimsâ (non-injuring), truth, nonstealing,
continence, forgiveness, endurance, compassion,
meekness, sparing diet, and cleanliness.
18. The ten niyamas mentioned by those proficient in the
knowledge of Yoga are: Tapa, patience, belief in God, charity,
adoration of God, hearing discourses on the principles of religion,
shame, intellect, Tapa and Yajna.
Asanas.
19. Being the first accessory of Hatha Yoga, asana is described first.
It should be practiced for gaining steady posture, health and
lightness of body.
20. I am going to describe certain âsanas which have been adopted
by Munis like Vasistha, etc., and Yogis like Matsyendra, etc.
Swastika-asana.
21.Having kept both the hands under both the thighs, with the body
straight, when one sits calmly in this posture, it is called
Swastika.
Gomukha-asana.
22. Placing the right ankle on the left side and the left ankle on the
right side, makes Gomukha-asana, having the appearance of a cow.
Virasana.
23. One foot is to be placed on the thigh of the opposite side; and
so also the other foot on the opposite thigh. This is called Virâsana.
Kurmasana.
24. Placing the right ankle on the left side of the anus, and the left
ankle on the right side of it, makes what the Yogis call Kurmaâsana.
Kukkuta asana.
25. Taking the posture of Padmâ-âsana and carrying the hands
under the thighs, when the Yogi raises himself above the ground,
with his palms resting on the ground, it becomes Kukkuta-âsana.
Utana Kurma-asana.
26. Having assumed the Kukkuta-asana, when one grasps his neck
by crossing his hands behind his head, and lies in this posture with
his back touching the ground, it becomes Uttana Kurma-asana,
from its appearance like that of a tortoise
Dhanura asana.
27. Having caught the toes of the foot with both hands and carried
them to the ears by drawing the body like a bow, it becomes
Dhanura âsana.
Matsya-asana.
28-29. Having placed with the right foot at the root of the left thigh,
let the toe be grasped with the right hand passing over the back,
and having placed the left foot on the right thigh at its root, let it be
grasped with the left hand passing behind the back. This is the
âsana, as explained by Sri Matsyânatha. It increases appetite and is
an instrument for destroying the group of the most deadly diseases.
Its practice awakens the Kundalini, stops the nectar shedding from
the moon in people.
Paschima Tana.
30. Having stretched the feet on the ground, like a stick, and having
grasped the toes of both feet with both hands, when one sits with
his forehead resting on the thighs, it is called Paschima Tâna.
31. This Paschima Tâna carries the air from the front to the back
part of the body (i.e., to the susumna). It kindles gastric fire,
reduces obesity and cures all diseases of men.
Mayura-asana.
32. Place the palms of both hands on the ground, and place the
navel on both the elbows and balancing thus, the body should be
stretched backwards like a stick. This is called Mayura-asana.
33. This âsana soon destroyed all diseases, and removes abdominal
disorders, and also those arising from irregularities of phlegm, bile and
wind, digests unwholesome food taken in excess, increases appetite
and destroys the most deadly poison.
Sava-âsana.
34. Laying down on the ground, like a corpse, is called Sava-âsana.
It removes fatigue and gives rest to the mind.
35. Siva taught 84 âsanas. Of these the first four being essential
ones, I am going to explain them here.
36. These four are:-- The Siddha, Padma, Sinha and Bhadra. Even
of these, the Siddha-âsana, being very comfortable, one should
always practice it.
The Siddhâsana.
37. Press firmly the heel of the left foot against the perineum, and
the right heel above the lingha. With the chin pressing on the chest,
one should sit calmly, having restrained the senses, and gaze
steadily at the space between the eyebrows. This is called the
Siddha âsana, the opener of the door of salvation.
38. This Siddhâsana is performed also by placing the left heel on
the Medhra (above the penis), and placing the right one next to it.
39. Some call this Siddhâsana, some Vajrâsana. Others call it Mukta
âsana or Gupta âsana.
40. Just as sparing food is among Yamas, and Ahimsâ among the
Niyamas, so is Siddhâsana called by adepts the chief of all the
âsanas.
41. Out of the 84 âsanas Siddhâsana should always be practiced,
because it cleanses the impurities of 72,000 nâdis.
42. By contemplating on oneself, by eating sparingly, and by
practicing Siddhâsana for 12 years, the Yogi obtains success.
43. Other postures are of no use, when success has been achieved
in Siddhâsana, and Prâna Vâyu becomes calm and restrained by
Kevala Kumbhaka.
44. Success in one Siddhâsana alone becoming firmly established,
one gets Unmani at once, and the three bonds (Bandhas) are
accomplished of themselves.
45. There is no âsana like the Siddhâsana and no Kumbhaka like
the Kevala. There is no mudrâ like the Khechari and no laya like the
Nada (Anahâta Nâda).
Padmâsana.
46. Place the right foot on the left thigh and the left foot on the
right thigh, and grasp the toes with the hands crossed over the
back. Press the chin against the chest and gaze on the tip of the
nose. This is called the Padmâsana, the destroyer of the diseases of
the Yamis.
47. Place the feet on the thighs, with the soles upward, and place
the hands on the thighs, with the palms upwards.
48. Gaze on the tip of the nose, keeping the tongue pressed against
the root of the teeth of the upper jaw, and the chin against the
chest, and raise the air up slowly, i.e., pull the apâna-vâyu gently
upwards.
49. This is called the Padmâsana, the destroyer of all diseases. It is
difficult of attainment by everybody, but can be learnt by intelligent
people in this world.
50. Having kept both hands together in the lap, performing the
Padmâsana firmly, keeping the chin fixed to the chest and
contemplating on Him in the mind, by drawing the apâna-vâyu up
(performing Mula Bandha) and pushing down the air after inhaling
it, joining thus the prana and apâna in the navel, one gets the
highest intelligence by awakening the sakti (kundalini) thus.
N.B.-- When Apâna Vâyu is drawn gently up and after filling the
lungs with the air from outside, the prana is forced down by and by
so as to join both of them in the navel, they both enter then the
Kundalini and, reaching the Brahma randra (the great hole), they
make the mind calm. Then the mind can contemplate on the nature
of the atmana and can enjoy the highest bliss.)
51. The Yogi who, sitting with Padmâsana, can control breathing,
there is no doubt, is free from bondage.
The Simhâsana.
52. Press the heels on both sides of the seam of the Perineum, in
such a way that the left heel touches the right side and the right
heel touches the left side of it.
53. Place the hands on the thighs, with stretched fingers, and
keeping the mouth open and the mind collected, gaze on the tip of
the nose.
54. This is Simhâsana, held sacred by the best Yogis. This excellent
âsana effects the completion of the three Bandhas (the
Mulabandha, Kantha or Jâlandhar Bandha and Uddiyâna Bandha).
The Bhandrâsana.
55 and 56. Place the heels on either side of the seam of the
Perineum, keeping the left heel on the left side and the right one on
the right side, holding the feet firmly joined to one another with
both the hands. This Bhadrâsana is the destroyer of all diseases.
57. The expert Yogis call this Goraksa âsana. By sitting with this
âsana, the Yogi gets rid of fatigue.
58. The Nadis should be cleansed of their impurities by performing
the mudrâs, etc., (which are the practices relating to the air)
âsanas, Kumbhakas and various curious mudrâs.
59. By regular and close attention to Nâda (anâhata nâda) in Hatha
Yoga, a Brahmachari, sparing in diet, unattached to objects of
enjoyment, and devoted to Yoga, gains success, no doubt, within a
year.
60. Abstemious feeding is that in which 3/4 of hunger is satisfied
with food, well cooked with ghee and sweets, and eaten with the
offering of it to Siva.
Foods injurious to a Yogi.
61. Bitter, sour, saltish, green vegetables, fermented, oily, mixed
with til seed, rape seed, intoxicating liquors, fish, meat, curds,
chhaasa pulses, plums, oil-cake, asafoetida (hinga), garlic, onion,
etc., should not be eaten.
62. Food heated again, dry, having too much salt, sour, minor
grains, and vegetables that cause burning sensation, should not be
eaten. Fire, women, travelling, etc., should be avoided.
63. As said by Goraksa, one should keep aloof from the society of
the evil-minded, fire, women, travelling, early morning bath,
fasting, and all kinds of bodily exertion.
64. Wheat, rice, barley, shâstik (a kind of rice), good corns, milk,
ghee, sugar, butter, sugarcandy, honey, dried ginger, Parwal (a
vegetable), the five vegetables, moong, pure water, these are very
beneficial to those who practice Yoga.
65. A yogi should eat tonics (things giving strength), well
sweetened, greasy (made with ghee), milk butter, etc., which may
increase humors of the body, according to his desire.
66. Whether young, old or too old, sick or lean, one who discards
laziness, gets success if he practices Yoga.
67. Success comes to him who is engaged in the practice. How can
one get success without practice; for by merely reading books on
Yoga, one can never get success.
68. Success cannot be attained by adopting a particular dress
(Vesa). It cannot be gained by telling tales. Practice alone is the
means to success. This is true, there is no doubt.
69. âsanas, various Kumbhakas, and other divine means, all should
be practiced in the practice of Hatha Yoga, till the fruitóRâja Yoga is
obtained.

Mudras in Yoga practise

MUDRAs
Mudra is the science of hand and finger postures. It can help to cure bodily
ailments in a wonderful manner. It affects the body's energetic system and the
flow of prana (life energy) within it. It actually helps in balancing the five
elements ( panch-tattvas ) in the human system to their optimal levels.
Abhaya Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Abhaya Mudra
"Abhaya" means "fearless". Abhaya Mudra represents protection, peace,
benevolence, and dispelling of fear.
Sequence:
1. Raise both your hands to the sides of your head.
2. Touch the forefinger to tip of thumb (just as in Gyan Mudra).
3. Hold the hand vertically straight by the sides.
Benefits:
• Mind becomes fearless.
• Gives a feeling of courage and strength.
Gyan Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Gyan Mudra
"Gyan" means "knowledge". It is the gesture of knowledge. This mudra is
considered to bestow intelligence and wisdom. Hence the name.
Sequence:
1. Bestows intelligence and wisdom.
2. Purifies the mind of the practitioner.
3. Cures many mental ailments.
4. Gives a feeling of joy.
5. Cures intoxication and addictive habits.
Linga Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Linga Mudra
"Linga" or "Angustha" means "phallus". Thumb is a symbol of masculinity.
Sequence:
1. Join both the palms.
2. Interlace fingers of both hands.
3. Extend one thumb upwards.
4. Encircle extended thumb with the index finger and thumb of the other
hand.
Benefits:
• This mudra generates heat in the body and thus, while it "burns" away
accumulated phlegm in the chest, it also makes the body more resilient to the
cold.
• It helps in increasing dynamism in a person.
• Persons with bilious temperament should practice this mudra under the
guidance of able and experienced person.
• Chronic cold is easily cured.
• It burns unwanted calories in the body, thus reducing obesity.
Mritasanjeevani Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Mritasanjeevani Mudra
"Mritasanjeevani" means "Air". This mudra helps balance the air element in the
body.
Sequence:
1. Fold the index finger (fore finger) on the pad of thumb.
2. Press the forefinger gently on the pad.
3. Touch the fore part of third (longest) finger and fore part of fourth (ring)
finger with the fore part of thumb.
Benefits:
• This mudra strengthens the heart.
• It is very useful in all heart ailments.
• It helps normalize blood pressure.
• This mudra has also been found to increase self-confidence.
Prithvi Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Prithvi Mudra
"Prithvi" means "Earth". This mudra helps balance the earth element in the body.
Sequence:
1. Place the tip of the ring finger (third finger) on top of the tip of the thumb.
2. Extend all the other fingers.
3. Keep them comfortably straight as possible.
Benefits:
• Normalizes body equilibrium.
• Helps remove physical weakness.
• Increases tolerance and patience.
• Helps all who practice spiritual meditation.
Shunya Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Shunya Mudra
"Shunya" means "zero" or "sky". Sky is connected with the highest forces - with
the "upper person" - with head.
Sequence:
1. Lower the middle finger and place finger pad on the fleshy mound area of
your thumb.
2. Cover it with your thumb.
3. Extend index, ring and little fingers.
This should be practiced for atleast for 45 minutes at a stretch for optimum
results.
Benefits:
• This mudra improves impaired hearing.
• It cures earaches in minutes.
• It also helps in nausea, vertigo, and travel sickness.
Surya Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Surya Mudra
"Surya" means "sun". Sun is the source of energy. Virtue of its energy is present
in all living beings. Surya mudra attracts energy of the Sun.
Sequence:
1. Touch the third (ring) finger to the pad of thumb.
2. Press the thumb gently over this third (ring) finger.
3. Keep the other fingers aloof.
Benefits:
• This mudra decreases Earth element in body.
• It cures mental heaviness.
• It also reduces body fat.
• The mudra is good for weight loss.
Varuna Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Varuna Mudra
"Varuna" means "Water". It balances the water element in the body.
Sequence:
1. Touch the fore part of the smallest finger to the fore part of thumb.
Benefits:
• Regular practice of this mudra balances water element in body.
• This mudra enhances physical beauty.
• It decreases dryness in skin and body.
• It is beneficial in controlling coughs, colds, asthma, paralysis, vibration,
sinuses, and low blood pressure.
Vaayu Mudra
Yoga Exercises > Yoga Mudras > Vaayu Mudra
"Vaayu" means "Air". This mudra helps balance the air element in the body.
Sequence:
1. Fold the index finger (fore finger) on the pad of thumb.
2. Press the forefinger gently on the pad.
3. Keep the other fingers aloof.
Benefits:
• Helps in all nervous ailments.
• Helpful in pains and aches.
• Specific mudra for patients of Cerebral Palsy and Parkinson's ailment.

Colitis

Colitis
Colitis is an inflammation of the colon or large intestine. There are two types of colitis : mucus
and ulceratie. Mucus colitis is a common disorder of the large bowel, producing discomfort and
irregular bowel habits. Chronic ulcerative colitis is a severe prolonged inflammation of the colon
or large bowel in which ulcers form on the walls of the colon, resulting in the passing of blood
stools with pus and mucus. Both forms of colitis are the results of prolonged irritation of the
delicate membrane which lines the walls of the colon.
Normally, it is the function of the colon to store waste material until most of the fluids have been
removed to enable well-formed soft stools, consisting of non-absorbable food materials to be
passed. Persons who suffer from an irritable colon have irregular and erratic contractions which
are specially noticeable on the left side.
Symptoms
Chronic ulcerative colitis usually begins in the lower part of the bowels 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 bloody mucus in the stools. As the disease spreads
upwards, the stools become watery and more frequent and are characterised by rectal straining.
All this loss of blood and fluid from the bowels results in weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss
of appetite and anaemia.
The patient may develop a bloated feeling because the gas is not absorbed or expelled
normally. Some patients suffer from constipation alternating with period of loose bowel
movements. Still others may suffer from a persistent diarrhoea for years together. The patient is
usually malnourished and may be severely underweight. He may suffer from frequent insomnia.
Ulcerative colitis in its severe form may also lead to nutritional problems. The improper
assimilation of the ingested foods due to inflammatory conditions may cause deficiency
diseases. This may gradually result in nervous irritability, exhaustion and depression. In very
severe cases, the patient may even develop suicidal tendencies.
Causes
The main cause 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 is caused by a poorly digested roughage,
especially of cereals and carbohydrates, which causes bowel irritation. The disease may also
result from an allergic sensitivity to certain foods especially milk, wheat and eggs. Often, the
intake of antibiotics may upset the bacterial flora in the intestines and interfere with proper
digestion.
Severe stress may also produce ulcerative colitis. During any form of severe stress, outpouring
of adrenal hormones causes such destruction of body protein that at times parts of the walls
lining the intestines are literally eaten away. Such stress also depletes the body of pantothenic
acid. Experiments on animals have shown that they can develop ulcerative colitis when they are
kept on diets deficient in pantothenic acid.
Treatment
The usual treatment of colitis with suppressive drugs is based on the assumption that colitis is
due to germ infection, which it is not. The suppressive drugs drive back into the system the toxic
matter in the colon which nature is endeavouring to eliminate in the form of mucus. They
suppress the symptoms temporarily, without removing the cause. In such cases, the symptoms
recur and colitis becomes chronic. Plain warm water or warm water with a little olive oil used as
a wash-out is the only method of softening and removing the accumulations of hardened matter
sticking to the walls of the colon.

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. The juices may be diluted with a little boiled
water. Papaya juice, raw cabbage and carrot juices will be especially beneficial. Citrus juices
should be avoided. The bowel should be cleansed daily with a warm water enema.
After the juice fast, the patient should gradually adopt a diet of small, frequent meals of soft
cooked or steamed vegetables, rice, dalia (coarsely broken wheat), well ripened fruits like
banana and papaya, yogurt and home-made cottage cheese. Sprouted seeds and grains, whole
meal bread and raw vegetables may be added gradually to this diet after about 10 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 aluminium pans.
Ripe bananas are highly beneficial in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, being bland, smooth,
easily digested and slightly laxative. They relieve acute symptoms and promote the healing
process.
An effective remedy for ulcerative colitis is the use of butter- milk. It is the residual milk left after
the fat has been removed from yogurt by churning. Buttermilk enema twice a week is also
soothing and helps in re-installing a healthy flora in the colon.
Another valuable remedy for colitis is tender coconut water, it is soothing to the soft mucosa of
the colon. Cooked apple also aids the healing of ulcerative conditions because of its ample
concentration of iron and phosphorous.
The patient should have a bowel movement at the same time each day and spend 10 to 15
minutes in the endeavour. Straining at stools should be avoided. Drinking two glasses of water
the first thing in the morning will stimulate a normal bowel movement. An enema may be used if
no bowel movement occurs.
Complete bed rest and plenty of liquids are very important. The patient should eliminate all
causes of tension, adjust to his disability and face his discomfort with patience

Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cirrhosis of the liver refers to all forms of liver disease characterised by a significant loss of cells.
It is one of the most serious hepatic diseases. The liver gradually contracts in size and becomes
hard and leathery.
The liver is one of the most important glandular organs in the body. It is located high up on the
right side of the abdomen just under the diaphragm. It is a vast chemical laboratory which
performs many important functions. It produces bile, cholesterol, lecithin, blood albumin vital to
the removal of tissue wastes prothrombin essential to the clotting of blood and numerous
enzymes. It inactivates hormones no longer needed, synthesises many amino acids used in
building tissues and breaks proteins into sugar and fat when required for energy. It stores
vitamins and minerals. It also destroys harmful substances and detoxifies drugs, poisons,
chemicals and toxins from bacterial infections. Liver damage interferes with all of these
functions.
In cirrhosis of the liver, although regenerative activity continues, the progressive loss of liver
cells exceeds cell replace- ment. There is also progressive distortion of the vascular system
which interferes with the portal blood flow through the liver. The progressive degeneration of
liver structure and function may ultimately lead to hepatic failure and death.
Symptoms
In the early stages of the diseases, there may be nothing more than frequent attacks of gas and
indigestion, with occasional nausea and vomiting. There may be some abdominal pain and loss
of weight. In the advanced stage, the patient develops a low grade fever. He has a foul breath,
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.
Causes
Excessive use of alcohol over a long period is the most potent cause of cirrhosis of the liver. It
has been estimated that one out of 12 chronic alcoholics in the United States develops cirrhosis.
The disease can progress to end-stage of hepatic failure if the person does not abstain from
alcohol. Cirrhosis appears to be related to the duration of alcohol intake and the quantity
consumed daily. Recent researches indicate that the average duration of alcohol intake to
produce cirrhosis is 10 years and the dose is estimated to be in excess of 500 ml of alcohol
daily.
Poor nutrition can be another causative factor in the development of cirrhosis and a chronic
alcoholic usually suffers from severe malnutrition as he seldom eats. Other causes of cirrhosis
are excessive intake of highly seasoned food, habitual taking of quinine for a prolonged period in
tropical climate, and drug treatments for syphillis, fever and other diseases. It may also result
from a highly toxic condition of the system in general. In fact, anything which continually
overburdens the liver cells and leads to their final breakdown can be a contributing cause of
cirrhosis.
Treatment
The patient should be kept in bed. He must abstain completely from alcohol in any form. He
should undergo an initial liver cleaning programme with 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 the fruit and milk diet for two to three weeks.
In this regimen, the patient should have three meals a day, each of fresh juicy fruits and milk.
The fruits may include apples, pears, grapes, grape fruit, oranges, pineapples and peaches. One
litre of milk may be taken on the first day. It should be increased by 250 ml. daily upto two to two

and a half litres a day. The milk should be fresh and unboiled, but may be slightly warmed if
desired. It should be sipped very slowly.
After the fruit and milk diet, the patient may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet of three
basic food groups, namely (i) seeds, nuts and grains, (ii) vegetables and (iii) fruits, with
emphasis on raw organically grown foods. An adequate high quality protein diet is necessary in
cirrhosis. The best complete proteins for liver patients are obtained from raw goat ‘s milk,
home-made raw cottage cheese, sprouted seeds and grains and raw nuts, especially almonds.
Vegetables such as beets, squashes, bitter gourd, egg-plant, tomato, carrot, radishes and
papaya are 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,sugar in any form, spices and
condiments, strong tea and coffee, fried foods,all preparations cooked in ghee, oil or butter and
all meats rich in fat. The use of salt should be restricted. The patient should also avoid all
chemical additives in food and poisons in air, water and environment.
Warm water enema should be used during the treatment to cleanse the bowels. If constipation is
habitual, all steps should be taken for its eradication. Application of alternate compress to liver
area followed by general wet sheet rub will be beneficial. The morning dry friction and breathing
and other exercises should form a regular daily feature of the treatment

Cataract

Cataract
Cataract is among the most common eye diseases. The term actually means a waterfall, and
refers to the opacity of the crystalline lens of the eye on the assumption that the condition is
caused by the humour of the brain falling over the pupil.
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 premeate
the opacity of the lens. According to the modern medical system, a surgical operation to remove
the lens or a major portion of it is the only way to get rid of the disease. The patient is provided
with suitable glasses after the operation to enable him to see well enough to carry on his normal
duties.
Symptoms
The first sign of cataract is blurred vision. The patient finds it difficult to see things in focus. As
the cataract progresses, the patient may get double vision or spots or both. There is a gradual
increase in blindness. 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 advance stage, objects and
persons may appear merely blobs of light. In the final stage, there is a grayish -white
discolouration in the pupil.
Causes
Cataract is often found in association with other defects of the eye. There are four factors which
contribute to the loss of transparency of the lens. These are stagnation of the fluid current in the
lens resulting from blood condition ; deterioration in the nutrition of the lens which diminishes the
vitality and resistence of the delicate lens fibres ; deposits between the lens fibres of acids and
salts which have an irritating effect on the lens tissues and exert an increasing pressure on its
delicate fibres, clouding whole 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 is 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 that part 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,salt, smoking, certain
physical ailments such as gastro-intestinal or gall- bladder disturbance, diabetes, vitamin
deficiencies, especially of vitamin C , fatty acid intolerance, ageing, radiation and side- effects of
drugs prescribed for other diseases.
Some specialists believe that the most important cause of many cataract is poor nutrition. This
may be true even in case of the type of cataract commonly called senile or ageing cataract. The
cause may be a lifetime of malnutrition. Dr. Morgan Raiford, an opthalmologist who has studied
cataracts for many years, considers faulty nutrition to be a basic factor in cataract. He has found
from experience that prevention of cataract is initiated by improving nutrition.
Treatment
Cataract is one of the most stubborn conditions to deal with, if it has become deep-seated,
nothing short of a surgical operation will help in overcoming the trouble. If, however, the cataract
is in the early stages, there are good chances of getting over the ailment by natural means. Even
advanced cases can be prevented from becoming worse.
A thorough course of cleansing the system of the toxic matter is essential. To start with, it will be
beneficial to undergo a fast for three to four days on orange juice and water. A warm water
enema may be taken during this period. After this initial fast, a diet of very restricted nature

should be followed for two weeks. In this regimen, breakfast may consist of oranges or grapes or
any other juicy fruit in season. Raw vegetable salads in season, with olive oil and lemon juice
dressing, and soaked raisins, figs or dates should be taken during lunch. Evening meals may
consist of vegetable such as spinach, fenugreek, drum sticks, cabbage, cauliflower , carrot,
turnips, steamed in their own juices, and a few nuts or some fruits, such as apples, pears and
grapes. Potatoes should not be taken. No bread or any other food should be added to this diet.
After two weeks on this diet, the cataract patient may start on a fuller diet on the following lines :
Breakfast : Any fresh fruits in season, except bananas.
Lunch : A large mixed raw vegetable salad with wholemeal bread or chapatis and butter.
Dinner : Two or three steamed vegetables, other than potatoes, with nuts and fresh fruit.
The short fast followed by a restricted diet should be repeated after three months of the
commencement of the treatment and again three months later, if necessary. The bowels should
be cleansed daily with a warm water enema during the fast, and afterwards as necessary.
The patient should avoid white bread, sugar, cream, refined cereals, rice, boiled potatoes,
puddings and pies, strong tea or coffee, alcoholic beverages, condiments, pickles, sauces or
other so-called aids to digestion.
There is increasing evidence to show that in several cases cataracts have actually been
reversed by proper nutritional treatment. However, the time needed for such treatment may
extend from six months to three years. Adelle Davis, one of America’s best-known nutritionists,
has pointed out that animals develop cataracts if deprived of pantotehnic acid and amino acid,
tryptophane and vitamin B6 needed for tryptophane assimilation. She states that the diet of the
cataract patient should be high in B2, B6, as well as whole B-complex, panto thenic acid, vitamin
C, D, E and other nutrients.
The aniseed is considered a useful remedy for cataract. The patient should take about six grams
of aniseed daily in the morning and evening. Equal weights of aniseed and coriander powder
and mixed with brown sugar is also beneficial in the treatment of this disease and the mixture
should be taken in doses of 12 grams in the morning and evening. Another valuable remedy for
cataract is to grind seven kernels of almonds and half a gram of pepper together in water, and
then drink the mixture after sifting and sweetening the mixture with sugar candy. It helps the
eyes to regain their vigour.
Simultaneous with the dietary treatment, the patient should 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, clock-wise and anti-clockwise; rotating the neck in circles and semi-circles
and briskly moving the shoulders clock-wise and anti-clockwise. The patient should also resort to
palming which is highly beneficial in removing strain and relaxing the eyes and its surrounding
tissues. The procedure has been outlined in chapter 40 on defective vision.
The epsom salt bath is highly beneficial and should be taken twice a week. The patient should
remain in the bath from 25 to 35 minutes till he perspires freely. After the bath the patient should
cool off gradually. Closed eyes should also be bathed at least twice daily with hot water
containing epsom salt - a tablespoonful of salt to a large cupful of hot water.
In cases where the cataract has been caused by stress, an antistress diet rich in protein, vitamin
B,C, E, pantothenic acid and nutrients is essential to overcome the trouble. If a cataract has
already developed, the diet will help prevent its occurrence in the other type.
Fresh air and gentle outdoor exercises, such as walking, are other essentials to the treatment.
Exposure to heat and bright light should be avoided as far as possible.

Cancer

CANCER
The word ‘cancer ‘ comes from the latin "carcinoma" meaning crab. It is the most dreaded
disease and refers to all malignant tumours caused by the abnormal growth of a body cell or a
group of cells . It is today the second largest killer in the world, next only to heart ailments. The
term covers more than 200 diseases.
The majority of cancers occur in the age group 50-60. Sex does not affect the incidence of the
disease. It, however, affects the site of growth. In men, cancer is usually found in the intestines,
the prostate and the lungs. In women, it occurs mostly in the breast tissues, uterus, gall-bladder
and thyroid.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cancer vary according to the site of the growth. The American Cancer Society
has prescribed seven signs or danger signals in general which may indicate the presence of
cancer. These are : a sore that does not heal ; change in bowel or bladder habits ; unusual
bleeding or discharge ; thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere ; indigestion or difficulty in
swallowing ; obvious change in a wart or a mole, and a persistent and nagging cough or
hoarseness. Other symptoms may include unexplained loss of weight , particularly in older
people, a change in skin colour and changes in the menstrual periods, especially bleeding
between periods.
Causes
The prime cause of cancer is not known. Certain cancer- causing substances, known as
carcinogens, however, increase the chances of getting the disease. About 80 per cent of
cancers are caused by environmental factors . Forty per cent of male cancers in India are linked
with tobacco, a known cancer- causing agent. The consumption of pan, bettlenut, tobacco and
slaked lime has been linked with lung and throat cancers. Heavy consumption of alcoholic drinks
can cause oesophagal, stomach and liver cancers. Occupational exposure to industrial
pollutants such as asbestos, nickel, tar, soot and high doses of X-rays can lead to skin and lung
cancers and leukemia. Other factors contributing to cancer are vital infections, trauma, hormone
imbalance and malnutrition. Many well-known biologists and naturopaths, however, believe that
a faulty diet is the root cause of cancer. Investigations indicate that the cancer incidence is in
direct proportion to the amount of animal protein, particularly meat, in the diet. Dr. Willard J.
Visek, a renowned research scientist explained recently a link between excessive meat-eating
and cancer. According to him, the villain is ammonia, the carcinogenic by-product of meat
digestion.
Treatment
The effective treatment of cancer consists of a complete change in diet, besides total elimination
of all environmental sources of carcinogens, such as smoking and carcinogenic chemicals in air
, water and food. There has recently been a surge of popular interest in the concept that diet is
not just a minor, but rather a major factor in both the development and the prevention of cancer.
The disease can be prevented and even treated by dietary programmes that include ‘natural
foods ‘ and the use of megavitamin supplements.
As a first step, the patient should cleanse the system by thoroughly relieving constipation and
making all the organs of elimination - the skin, lungs, liver, kidneys and bowels - active. Enemas
should be used to cleanse the colon. For the first four or five days, the patient should take only
juicy fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, apples, peaches, pears, pineapples and tomatoes.
Vegetable juices are also useful, especially carrot juice.
After a few days of an exclusive fruit diet, the patient may be given a nourishing alkaline-based
diet. It should consist of 100 per cent natural foods, with emphasis on raw fruits and vegetables,

particularly carrots , green leafy vegetables, cabbage, onion, garlic , cucumber, asparagus,
beets and tomatoes. A minimum requirement of high quality protein, mostly from vegetable
sources such as almonds, millet, sesame seeds, sprouted seeds and grains, may be added to
the diet.
Dr. Ann Wigmore of Boston, U.S.A., the well-known naturopath and a pioneer in the field of living
food nutrition, has been testing the effect of a drink made of fresh wheatgrass in the treatment of
leukemia. She claims to have cured several cases of this disease by this method. Dr. Wigmore
points out that by furnishing the body with live minerals, vitamins, trace elements and chlorophyll
through wheatgrass juice, it may be able to repair itself.
Johanna Brandt, the author of the book ‘ The Grape Cure ‘ has advocated an exclusive grape
diet for the treatment of cancer. She discovered this mode of cure in 1925, while experimenting
on herself by fasting and dieting alternately in the course of her nine-year battle with cancer. She
claimed to have cured herself by this mode of treatment. She recommends a fast for two or three
days so as to prepare the system for the change of diet.
After the short fast, the patient should have a grape meat every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This should be followed for a week or two even a month or two, in chronic cases of long
standing. The patient should begin the grape cure with a small quantity of 30, 60, to 90 grams
per meal, gradually increasing this to double the quantity. In course of time, about 250 grams
may safely be taken as a meal.
Recent researches have shown that certain vitamins can be successfully employed in the fight
against cancer and that they can increase the life expectancy of some terminal cancer patients.
According to recent Swedish studies vitamin C in large doses can be an effective prophylactic
agent against cancer. Noted Japanese scientist, Dr. Fukunir Morishige, and his colleagues who
have been examining the healing potential of vitamin C for the last 30 years, have recently found
that a mixture of vitamin C and copper compound has lethal effects on cancer.
According to several studies, vitamin A exerts an inhibiting effect on carcinogenesis. It is one of
the most important aids to the body’s defence system to fight and prevent cancer. Dr. Leonida
Santamaria and his colleagues at the University of Pavia in Italy have uncovered preliminary
evidence suggesting that beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A may actually inhibit skin cancer
by helping the body thwart the cancer-causing process known as oxidation.
Recent studies from all over the world suggest that a liberal use of green and yellow vegetables
and fruits can prevent cancer. The 20-years old, ongoing Japanese study found that people who
ate green and yellow vegetables every day had a decreased risk of developing lung, stomach
and other cancers. A Harvard University study of more than 1,200 elderly Massachusetts
residents found that those who reported the highest consumption of carrots, squash, tomatoes,
salads or leafy green vegetables, dried fruits, fresh strawberries or melon had a decreased risk
of cancer.
The other useful measures are plenty of rest, complete freedom from worries and mental stress
and plenty of fresh, pure air.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis
Bronchitis refers to an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the bronchi and bronchial
tube within the chest. It is a breathing disorder affecting the expiratory function. In most cases,
some infection also occurs in the nose and throat. It is a disease endemic to cold, damp
climates, but may occur anywhere.
Bronchitis may be acute or chronic. In chronic cases, the disease is of long duration. It is more
serious than the acute type as permanent changes may have occurred in the lungs, thereby
interfering with their normal movements. Chronic bronchitis is more frequent in males than in
females and mortality rate is also higher in males.
Symptoms
In most cases of bronchitis, the larynx, trachea and bronchial tubes are acutely inflamed. The
tissues are swollen due to irritation. Large quantities of mucus are secreted and poured into the
windpipe to protect the inflamed mucous membrane. The phelgm, when expelled is found to be
viscid and purulent. There is usually a higher fever, some difficulty in breathing and a deep chest
cough. Other symptoms are hoarseness and pain in the chest and loss of appetite. Breathing
trouble continues till the inflammation subsides and mucous is removed.
Causes
The chief cause of bronchitis is wrong feeding habits. The habitual use of refined foods such as
white sugar, refined cereals and white-flour products results in the accumulation of morbid
matter in the system and collection of toxic waste in the bronchial tube. Another important cause
of this disease is smoking. Excessive smoking irritates the bronchial tubes and lowers their
resistance so that they become vulnerable to germs breathed in from the atmosphere. Other
causes of bronchitis are living or working in stuffy atmosphere, use of drugs to suppress earlier
diseases and hereditary factors. Changes in weather and environment are common factors for
the onset of the disease.
Treatment
In acute cases of bronchitis , the patient should fast on orange juice and water till the acute
symptoms subside. The procedure is to take the juice of an orange in a glass of warm water
every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thereafter, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for two
or three days. In case of chronic bronchitis, the patient can begin with an all- fruit diet for five to
seven days, taking each day three meals of fresh juicy fruits. After the all-fruit diet, the patient
should follow a well-balanced diet of seeds, nuts and grains, vegetables and fruits. For drinks,
unsweetened lemon water or cold or hot plain water may betaken. The patient should avoid
meats, sugar, tea, coffee, condiments, pickles, refined and processed foods, soft-drinks,
candies, ice-cream and products made from sugar and white flour.
One of the most effective remedy for bronchitis is the use of turmeric powder. A teaspoonful of
this powder should be administered with a glass of milk two or three times daily. It acts best
when taken on an empty stomach.
Another effective remedy for bronchitis is a mixture of dried ginger powder, pepper and long
pepper taken in equal quantities three times a day. It may be licked with honey or infused with
one’s daily tea. The powder of these three ingredients have antipyretic qualities and are effective
in dealing with fever accompanied by bronchitis. They also tone up the metabolism of the
patient.
The onion has been used as a food remedy for centuries in bronchitis. It is said to possess
expectorant properties . It liquefies phelgm and prevents its further formation. One teaspoon of
raw onion juice, the first thing in the morning will be highly beneficial in such cases.
A simple hot poultice of linseed should be applied over the front and back of the chest. It will

greatly relieve pain. Poultices act by diluting the vessels of the surface and thereby reducing the
blood pressure. The heat of the poultics acts as a cardiac stimulant. A poultics should be applied
neatly and carefully and should be often renewed, so that it does not hamper respiration.
Turpentine may be rubbed over the chest with fomentation for the same object.
A hot Epsom-salts bath every night or every other night will be highly beneficial during the acute
stages of the attack. This bath is prepared by dissolving three lbs. of Epsom-salts to 60 litres of
water having a temperature of 100 o F. The patient should remain immersed in the bath for
about 20 minutes. In case of chronic bronchitis, this bath may be taken twice a week. Hot towels
wrung out and applied over the upper chest are also helpful. After applying three hot towels in
turn for two or three minutes each , one should always finish off with a cold towel. A cold pack
should also be applied to the upper chest several times daily in acute conditions. The procedure
is to wring out some linen material in cold water, wrap two or three times round the affected part
and cover it with some flannel. The pack can remain for about an hour at a time.
Fresh air and outdoor exercises are also essential to the treatment of bronchitis and the patient
should take a good walk everyday. He should also perform yogic kriyas such as jalneti and
vamandhouti and yogic asanas such as ekpaduttansana, yogamudra, bhujangasana,
shalabhasana, padmasana and shavasana. Simple pranayamas like kapalbhatti,
anuloma-viloma, ujjai and bhramari are also highly beneficial.

Backache

Backache
Backache, one of the most common ailments, is widely prevalent these days due to sedentary
living habits and hazardous work patterns. The psychological conditions associated with
emotional stress, which bring about spasm of the muscles, may also cause backache. As the
back bears the weight of the entire body it gives way when it has to carry an extra load in the
case of persons who are overweight.
The back, a complex structure of muscles, bone and elastic tissue, is known as the life-bone of
the body. The spine is made of 24 blocks of bone piled one on top of the other. Sandwiched
between these bony blocks are cushions of cartilage and elastic tissues called intervertebral
discs. The vertebral discs act as shock absorbers for the back. Mobility would be impossible
without discs.
Sometimes these cushions rupture and the pulp protrudes a little. The process is erroneously
called a ‘slipped’ disc. If the cushion disappears entirely, the result is known as a degenerated
disc. In slipped-disc trouble, the nerve is affected in such a way that the pain radiates down the
thigh and leg. If the disc ‘slips’ in the neck area, it causes numbness and pain radiates to the
arms.
Disc trouble does not occur suddenly but builds up over a long time. The backbone forms a
protective arch over the vertebrae and spinal cord and protects the spinal nerves that are
interwoven through the spinal column. There is a close relationship between the bones, discs,
joint muscles and nerves in the back and the slightest problem or injury to the back or neck area
can have disastrous effects.
Symptoms
In most cases of backache, the pain is usually felt either in the middle of the back or lower down.
It may spread to both sides of the waist and the hips. With acute pain, the patient is unable to
move and is bedridden.
About 90 per cent of backache patients suffer from what is called cervical or lumber spondylosis.
It is a degenerative disorder in which the vertebralbone or the intervertebral disc becomes soft
and loses shape. As a result of this, the spine loses its flexibility.
Causes
The main causes of backache and spondylosis are muscular tension, joint strain, poor posture
and incorrect nutrition resulting from dietetic errors and lack of exercise. Acute or chronic
illnesses like kidney or prostate problems, female disorders, influenza and arthritis, may also
lead to backache. Other causes include stress and strain resulting from sitting for a long time,
improper lifting of weight, high heels and emotional problems which may cause painful muscle
cramping.
Poor posture results from soft chairs and coaches, which facilitates slouching and sitting
incorrectly. Shoes with high heels place a tremendous strain on the back and other muscles of
the body. Sleeping on too soft a mattress which results in an improper back and neck posture,
can cause tension, headaches and pain in the upper and lower back.
Another major cause of back problems and tense muscles is lack of exercise. Modern
conveniences have made officework easier. The easy life can lead to obesity which puts a great
strain on the back. When muscles are not exercised and remain weak, the chances of injury to
them is increased manifold.
Treatment
Drugs prescribed to relieve pain or relax muscles in backache disorders do not cure common
back problems. These can become habit forming and may actually perpetuate the disease in
case of excessive intake.

Certain safety measures , especially, for people in sedentary occupation, are necessary to
relieve and prevent backache. The most important of these is exercise which improves the
supply of nutrients to spinal discs, thereby delaying the process of deterioration that comes with
age and eventually affects everybody. Safe exercises include walking, swimming and bicycling.
The latter should be done keeping the back upright. Controlling one’s weight is another
important step towards relieving backache as excess weight greatly increases the stress on soft
back tissues.
Those with sedentary occupations should take a break to stand up every hour. Soft cushioned
seats should be avoided and position should be changed as often as possible. Persons with
back problems should sleep on a firm mattress on their sides with knees bent at right angles to
the torso. They should take care never to bend from the waist down to lift any object but instead
should swat close to the object, bending the knees but keeping the back straight, and then stand
up slowly.
Neck tension arising from long hours at the desk or behind the wheel of the car can be relieved
by certain neck exercises. These include rotating the head clockwise and anticlockwise, allowing
the head to drop forward and backward as far as possible and turning the head to the right and
left as far as possible several times. These exercises help to loosen up contracted neck muscles
which may restrict the blood supply to the head.
The diet of those suffering from backache should consist of a salad of raw vegetables such as
tomato, carrot, cabbage, cucumber, radish, lettuce and at least two steamed or lightly cooked
vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, carrot, spinach and plenty of fruits, all except bananas.
The patients should have four meals daily. They may take fruits and milk during breakfast,
steamed vegetables and whole wheat chapatis during lunch, fresh fruits or fruit juice in the
evening and a bowl of raw salad and sprouts during dinner.
The patients should avoid fatty, spicy, and fried foods, curd, sweetmeats, sugar, condiments as
well as tea and coffee. Those who smoke and take tobacco in any form should give them up
completely.
Proteins and vitamin C are necessary for the development of a healthy bone metrix. Vitamin D,
calcium, phosphorous and the essential trace minerals are essential for healthy bones. Foods
that have been processed for storage to avoid spoiling have few nutrients and should be
eliminated from the diet. Vitamin C has proved helpful in relieving low-back pain and averting
spinal disc operations.
Hot fomentations, alternate sponging or application of radiant heat to the back will also give
immediate relief. Yogic asanas which are beneficial in the treatment of backache are
bhujangasana, shalabhasana, halasana, uttanpadasana and shavasana.
The back can be strengthened through proper nutrition, exercise and relaxation and in the
process general health will also improve.

Asthma

Asthma
Asthma is an ancient Greek word meaning " panting or short- drawn breath." It is the most
troublesome of the respiratory diseases. The asthma patient gets frequent attacks of
breathlessness in between which he is completely normal.
Symptoms
Patients suffering from asthma appear to be gasping for breath. Actually, they have more trouble
exhaling than inhaling because the air passages of the small bronchi become clogged and
constricted with mucus, thus making it difficult for the patient to breathe out. All asthmatics have
more difficulty at night, especially during sleep.
The onset of asthma is either gradual or abrupt. Sudden onsets are often preceded by a spell of
coughing which may be associated with itching of the chin, the back of the neck or chest. When
the onset is gradual, the attack is usually brought on by respiratory infection. A severe attack
causes an increase in heartbeat and respiratory rates and the patient feels restless and fatigued.
There may be coughing, tightness inthe chest, profuse sweating and vomiting. There may also
be abdominal pain, especially if coughing is severe. Foggy weather aggravates the symptoms.
An asthmatic attack begins when the bronchial tubes in the lungs become constricted. The tubes
having become narrow, the inhaled air becomes trapped in the tiny air sacs at the end of the
tubes, making the release of breath difficult. The wheezing sound identified with asthma is
produced by the air being pushed through the narrowed bronchi.
Causes
Mainly bronchial in its symptoms, asthma is caused by a variety of factors. For many it is an
allergic condition resulting from the reaction of the system to the weather, food, drugs, perfumes
and other irritants which vary with different individuals. Allergies to dust are the most common.
Some persons are sensitive to the various forms of dust like cotton dust, wheat dust and paper
dust, some pollens, animal hair, fungi and insects, especially cockroaches. Foods which
generally cause allergic reactions are wheat, eggs, milk, chocolates, beans, potato, pork and
beef.
For others, asthma may result from the abnormal body chemistry involving the system’s
enzymes or a defect in muscular action within the lungs. Quite often, however, asthma is
precipitated by a combination of allergic and non- allergic factors including emotional tension, air
pollution, infections and hereditary factors. It has been estimated that when both parents have
asthma or hay fever, in 75 to 100 per cent cases, the offspring also has allergic reactions.
Treatment
Modern medical system has not been able to find a cure for this crippling disease. Drugs and
vaccines have only limited value in alleviating symptoms. Most of these are habit forming and
the dose has to be increased from time to time to give the same amount of relief. The frequent
introduction of drugs in the system, while giving only temporary relief, tends to make asthma
chronic and incurable. Allergy - which is the immediate cause of asthma - itself is an indication of
lowered resistance and internal disharmony caused by faulty eating and bad habits. This is the
root cause and the real cure lies in a return to nature.
The natural way to treat asthma consists of stimulating the functioning of slack excretory organs,
adopting appropriate diet patterns to eliminate morbid matter and reconstruct the body, and
practicing yogasanas, yogic kriyas and pranayamas to permit proper assimilation of food and to
strengthen the lungs, digestive system and circulatory organs.
The patient should be given an enema to clean the colon and prevent auto-intoxication.
Mud-packs applied to the abdomen will relieve the fermentation caused by undigested food and
will promote intestinal peristalsis. Wet packs should be applied to the chest to relieve the

congestion of the lungs and strengthen them. The patient should be made to perspire through
steam bath, hot foot bath, hot hip bath and sun bath.
This will stimulate the skin and relieve congested lungs.
The patient should fast for a few days on lemon juice with honey and thereafter resort to a fruit
juice diet to nourish the system and eliminate the toxins. Gradually, solid foods can be included.
The patient should, however, avoid the common dietic errors. Ideally, his diet should contain a
limited quantity of carbohydrates, fats and proteins which are acid-forming foods, and a liberal
quantity of alkaline foods consisting of fresh fruits, green vegetables and germinated gram.
Foods which tend to produce phelgm such as rice, sugar, lentils and curds as also fried and
other difficult- to- digest foods should be avoided. Breakfast may consist of prunes, orange or
berries or a few black raisins with honey. Lunch and dinner should consist of a salad of raw
vegetables such as cucumber, lettuce, tomato, carrot and beets, one or two lightly cooked green
vegetables and wheat bread. The last meal should preferably be taken before sunset or at least
two hours before going to bed.
Asthamtics should always eat less than their capacity. They should eat slowly, chewing their
food properly. They should drink eight to 10 glasses of water a day, but should avoid taking
water or any liquid with meals. Spices, chillies and pickles, too much tea and coffee should also
be avoided.
Asthma, particularly when the attack is severe, tends to destroy the appetite. IN such cases, do
not force the patient to eat. He should be kept on fast till the attack is over. He should, however,
take a cup of warm water every two hours. An enema taken at that time will be very beneficial.
Honey is considered highly beneficial in the treatment of asthma. It is said that if a jug of honey
is held under the nose of an asthma patient and he inhales the air that comes into contact with
the honey, he starts breathing easier and deeper. The effect lasts for about an hour or so. This is
because honey contains a mixture of ‘higher’ alcohols and ethereal oils and the vapors given off
by them are soothing and beneficial to the asthma patient. Honey usually brings relief whether
the air flowing over it is inhaled or whether it is eaten or taken either in milk or water. It thins out
accumulated mucous and helps its elimination from the respiratory passages. It also tones up
the pulmonary parenchyma and thereby prevents the production of mucous in future. Some
authorities recommend one year old honey for respiratory disease.
Another effective remedy for asthma is garlic. The patient should be given daily garlic cloves
boiled in thirty gms of milk as a cure for early stage of asthma. Steaming ginger tea with minced
garlic cloves in it, can also help to keep the problem under control and should be taken both in
the morning and evening. Turmeric is also regarded as an effective remedy for bronchial
asthma. The patient should be given a teaspoonful of turmeric powder with a glass of milk two or
three times daily. It acts best when taken on an empty stomach.
During the attack, mustard oil mixed with little camphor should be massaged over the back of
the chest. This will loosen up phelgm and ease breathing. The patient should also inhale steam
from the boiling water with caraway seeds, known as ajwain in the vernacular. It will dilate the
bronchial passage.
The patient should also follow the other laws of nature. Air sun and water are great healing
agents. Regular fasting once a week, an occasional enema, breathing exercises, fresh air, dry
climate, light exercises and a correct posture go a long way in treating the disease.
The patient should perform yogic kriyas such as jalneti, vamandhouti and yogic asanas such as
ekpaduttanasana, yogamudra, sarvangasana, padmasana, bhujangasana, dhanurasana,
vakrasana, ardh-matsyendrasan, shalabhasan, paschimottanasana and shavasana.
Pranayamas like kapalbhati, anuloma-viloma, ujjayi, surbyabhedana and bhramari are also
highly beneficial.
The patient should avoid dusty places, exposure to cold, foods to which he is sensitive, mental
worries and tensions. Asthmatic should be made to feel that they are not sick, and with slight
adjustments, can live a full life.