Kutki | PICRORHIZA KURROA ROYALE EX BENTH.
Family: Scophulariaceae
Locality: It is found in the Himalayan region
from Kashmir to Sikkim at an elevation of 2700-4500m and in Nepal, found abundantly between 3500 and 4800m.
Characteristics: 5–15 cm long leaves, almost all at the base, often withered. Rhizomes of the plant are 15– 25 cm long and woody. Flowers are small, pale or purplish blue, borne in cylindric spikes, spikes borne on almost leafless erect stems. Fruits are 1.3 cm long.
Parts Used: Root and rhizome
Medicinal Uses: Loss of appetite, indigestion, hepatitis, fevers and cirrhosis.

Kudzu | PUERARIA MONTANA (LOUR.) MERR.
Family: Fabaceae
Locality: A native of Asia, kudzu was introduced into the United States at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition in 1876. Kudzu grows well under a wide range of environmental conditions.
Characteristics: This aggressive vine can grow 60 feet per year forming a continuous blanket of foliage. This massive covering often chokes out competing native vegetation that provides food and habitat for native animals. Perennial vines reach 30 m (98 ft) in length. Kudzu roots typically reach a soil depth of 1-3 m (3-9 ft).
Parts Used: The leaves, vine tips, flowers, and roots are edible; the vines are not. The leaves can be used like spinach and eaten raw, chopped up and baked in quiches, cooked like collards, or deep fried.
Medicinal Uses: To treat alcoholism and to reduce symptoms of alcohol hangover, including headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and vomiting.

Valerian | VALERIANA OFFICINALIS L.
Family: Valerianaceae
Locality: A perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia.
Characteristics: Valerian is a perennial plant with an extremely varied morphology. It comprises a sturdy rhizome with many secondary roots and short runners. In spring the plant develops a basal rosette with pinnate leaves.
Parts Used: The roots and rhizome
Medicinal Uses: Restlessness, sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions. Valerian root is often referred to as "nature's Valium." May also be helpful for menopause, premenstrual syndrome, painful menses, restless legs syndrome and neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

Dandelion | TARAXACUM OFFICINALE COMPLEX
Family: Asteraceae
Locality: Native to temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere. Native to Eurasia, introduced to North America, South America, India (where it hadn't reached naturally), Australia, New Zealand.
Characteristics: Leaves form a whorl about the base of the dandelion where it emerges from the ground, growing to lengths between 2 and 16 inches, with most no longer than 8 inches. These basal leaves are bright green and feature the irregular teeth all along their edges that give the weed its name.
Parts Used: Leaves, roots and flowers
Medicinal Uses: Dandelion root has long been used to treat stomach and liver conditions. Can be used for anorexia (which hurts the spleen). Herbalists today believe that it can aid in the treatment of many ailments, including acne, eczema, high cholesterol, heartburn, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and even cancer.

Neem | AZADIRACHTA INDICA A. JUSS.
Family: Meliaceae
Locality: Native to the Indian subcontinent.
Characteristics: Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15–20 metres (49–66 ft), and rarely 35–40 metres (115–131 ft). The opposite, pinnate leaves are 20–40 centimetres (7.9–15.7 in) long, with 20 to 30 medium to dark green leaflets about 3–8 centimetres (1.2–3.1 in) long.
Parts Used: The bark, leaves, and seeds are used to make medicine. Less frequently, the root, flower, and fruit are also used.
Medicinal Uses: To improve liver function, detoxify the blood, and balance blood sugar levels. Neem leaves have also been used to treat skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, etc. Caution: In adults, short-term use of neem is safe, while long-term use may harm the kidneys or liver; in small children, neem oil is toxic and can lead to death. Neem twigs can also be used as a toothbrush.

Shilajit | ASPHALTUM BITU
Family: None
Locality: Shilajit is formed and found primarily in Asia in the Himalayan ranges in India, Nepal, Pakistan, China, Tibet, and part of Central Asia and Scandinavia.
Characteristics: Shilajit, also called mineral pitch, is the result of a long process of breaking down plant matter and minerals. It is a sticky, black, tar-like substance that comes from rocks in high mountain ranges.
Parts Used: Purified Exudate.
Medicinal Uses: Found to reduce alcohol withdrawal anxiety in a dose-dependent manner. Also can be used for asthma and allergic conditions, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, joint disorders, antioxidant, anemia, asthma, cystitis, diabetes, dysuria, edema, epilepsy, gall stones, hemorrhoids, insanity, jaundice, kidney, obesity, sexual debility, skin diseases, menstrual disorders, and parasites.

Bacopa | BACOPA MONNIERI (L.) WETTST.
Family: Plantaginaceae
Locality: Native to the wetlands of southern and Eastern India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America.
Characteristics: The leaves of this plant are succulent, oblong, and 4–6 mm (0.16–0.24 in) thick. Leaves are oblanceolate and are arranged oppositely on the stem. The flowers are small, actinomorphic and white, with four to five petals.
Parts Used: Whole plant
Medicinal Uses: Loss of memory, anxiety neurosis, depression, ADHD, epilepsy, insomnia, May improve cognition.

Skullcap | SCUTELLARIA LATERIFLORA L.
Family: Lamiaceae
Locality: Native to North America
Characteristics: It has an upright habit, growing 60 to 80 centimeters in maximum height. It is a wetland- loving species and grows near marshes, meadows, and other wet habitat. The blue flowers are just under a centimeter long. Most of the flowers do not appear at the top of the main stem, but are produced along the length of side branches that grow from the leaf axils.
Parts Used: Roots and leaves
Medicinal Uses: Used to treat trouble sleeping (insomnia), anxiety, stroke, and paralysis caused by stroke. It is also used for fever, high cholesterol, “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis), rabies, epilepsy, nervous tension, allergies, skin infections, inflammation, spasms. and kidney problems.

Ashwagandha | WITHANIA SOMNIFERA (L.) DUNAL
Family: Solanaceae
Locality: It is cultivated in many of the drier regions of India. It is also found in Nepal, China and Yemen. It prefers dry stony soil with sun to partial shade.
Characteristics: This species is a short, tender perennial shrub growing 35–75 cm (14–30 in) tall. Tomentose branches extend radially from a central stem. Leaves are dull green, elliptic, usually up to 10–12 cm (4 to 5 in) long. The flowers are small, green and bell-shaped. The ripe fruit is orange-red.
Parts Used: Roots, leaves and fruit
Medicinal Uses: Boosts brain function, lowers blood sugar and cortisol levels, and helps fight symptoms of anxiety and depression. Can boost testosterone and increase fertility in men.

Shankapushpi | CONVOLVULUS PROSTRATUS CHOISY
Family: Convolvulaceae
Locality: Found in India and Burma.
Characteristics: The plant is about 2 to 3 inches in height. Its leaves are small in size and are about 0.5 to 1.5 inches in length. Its leaves are alternate, elliptical. Flowers are about white or red in color, they are round or bell shaped.
Parts Used: Whole plant, roots and seeds
Medicinal Uses: Traditionally as a brain tonic and is believed to help a wide range of issues. It is believed to have demonstrated potential for anxiolytic, relaxant, and anti-obsessive effects, as well as nootropic effects. Has been found to help significantly with memory retention.

Milk Thistle | SILYBUM MARIANUM (L.) GAERTN.
Family: Asteraceae
Locality: Originally a native of Southern Europe through to Asia, it is now found throughout the world.
Characteristics: Can grow to be 30 to 200 cm (12 to 79 in) tall, and have an overall conical shape. The stem is grooved and more or less cottony. The leaves are oblong to lanceolate. They are either lobate or pinnate, with spiny edges. They are hairless, shiny green, with milk-white veins. The flower heads are 4 to 12 cm long and wide, of red-purple color.
Parts Used: Whole herb, root, leaves, seeds and hull
Medicinal Uses: Treatment of liver disease, prevention and treatment of cancer, and supportive treatment of poisoning from death cap mushrooms.

Burdock Root | ARCTIUM LAPPA L.
Family: Asteraceae
Locality: Native to northern Asia and Europe, though it now grows in the United States, too.
Characteristics: Burdock is a tall, unmistakable plant. It flowers from July until frost, and reproduces by seed. The barbed flowers and seeds will attach to almost anything. Flower heads are purple, stalked, 1⁄2 - 1 inch thick, numerous, and occur at the ends of branches and axils of upper leaves. The deep roots of the burdock plant are very long and either brown or nearly black on the outside.
Parts Used: Roots, leaves and fruits
Medicinal Uses: For the liver and kidneys to flush them out. People take burdock to increase urine flow, kill germs, reduce fever, and “purify” their blood. It is also used to treat colds, cancer, anorexia nervosa, gastrointestinal (GI) complaints, joint pain (rheumatism), gout, bladder infections, complications of syphilis, and skin conditions including acne and psoriasis.

*This information is for educational purposes only. Please consult with an Ayurvedic Doctor before taking any herbal remedies. 

The size and breadth of the prison population is substantial in the United States of America. Unfortunately, that is likely to continue for some time even with current political changes that may reduce some mass incarceration. As public policy continues to grapple with mental and physical health resources as well as rehabilitation programs, Ayurveda can provide a unique set of solutions to address those issues. This is based on the fundamentals and approach of Ayurveda which is grounded in self-reflection, tradition and diversity. While it does not conflict with science or modern medicine, it focuses on more cost effective and natural approaches which should enhance the ability of prisons to deal with improving the mental and physical health as well as rehabilitation of people whom are incarcerated.  

Lets start by defining what Ayurveda is. Ayurveda is a comprehensive natural healing system that includes mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. The term Ayurveda is made from two Sanskrit words, ‘ayur’ meaning life and longevity, and ‘veda’ meaning wisdom, science, and knowledge. Ayurveda translates to “the science of life” or the “knowledge of longevity”.

Ayurveda is an indigenous medicine rooting from India, with its origins stemming back over five thousand years. Often referred to as the “mother of all healing,” Ayurveda may be the oldest health care system in the world. It is not only a medical system, but also a framework for living a healthy life with a peaceful mind.

Ayurveda works wonders for both chronic and acute imbalances because it addresses the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. Ayurveda also gives us guidance on how to live day-to-day, in sound health, with a focus on prevention. Since Ayurveda is based in nature, its treatment methods aim to restore balance naturally through:

• Dietary Changes
• Lifestyle Modifications
• Herbal Medicines
• Yogic Practices, Including Asana (physical postures), Pranayama (Breath Techniques), and Meditation
• Seasonal Cleansing Practices

Working with the principles of Ayurveda is fairly simple, once you understand the basics. One lovely aspect about Ayurveda is that with a little knowledge you can accomplish a lot. However, one difference between Ayurveda and other systems of medicine is that YOU have to take an active role in your health.

With this as an overview the following represents the modalities in which Ayurveda provides a means of achieving the goals of cost effective and health effective support for the incarcerated population.

Ayurveda uses a variety of tools that may be of value to an individual who is incarcerated. A few of these may include:

• Daily rituals (‘dincharya’) for a purified body, mind and spirit.
• Yoga asana (postures) to help restore the body and energetic field.
• Ayurvedic diet to restore nutritional deficiencies.
• Meditation tools for coping with daily mental and emotional stressors and to cultivate a connection with a Higher Power.

Dincharya is the ideal daily Ayurvedic routine and rituals. By creating a new life routine, we set new intentions for ourselves in order to create the life we want, not the life incarceration has created for us. Finding ways to incorporate Ayurvedic rituals into daily life in a realistic way is key to having continued success in mental and physical health.

"We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts we make the world." ~ Buddha.

In sanskrit, prana translates as 'breath' or 'life force', and the term ayama means 'to restrain or control the prana, so pranayama refers to the practice of 'breath control'. Yogic Breathing techniques help us to develop an understanding or our diaphragmatic and thoracic breathing. The practice fills the lungs with fresh air, helps with temperature regulation, plays an important role in the absorption of oxygen and assists with the removal of toxins and impurities found within the blood stream and body.

A simple breathing technique that can be used to calm the nervous system is alternate nostril breathing. To practice this breath, create a peace symbol with your dominant hand, then lower the peace sign (index and middle finger) and raise the thumb, ring and pinky fingers. With your palm facing you, close off the right nostril with your thumb, exhaling through the left. Inhale through the left nostril, then close off the left nostril at the top of the breath with your ring finger, release your thumb from the right nostril to open for the exhale. Repeat back and forth, alternating nostrils. End the practice exhaling through the left nostril. This alternate nostril breathing balances both the right and left hemispheres of the brain and sends signals throughout the body to calm the nervous system.

Yoga is a sister science of Ayurveda and means "union". While controlling the breath is one step to maintaining control over one's being, yoga brings the breath, body and mind into alignment calming the nervous system in its entirety. It is a nonjudgmental practice that is done on a mat using principles that are carried off the mat into the rest of the world. 

One very simple yoga posture that can be done in a prison cell is legs-up-the-wall. This is a helpful posture for back pain and elicits a relaxation response for the rest of the body.

A different form of yoga, called Laughter Yoga is another simple practice that anyone can participate in. Laughter truly is the best medicine! Laughter Yoga is a simple yet profound way to promote mental and physical health. This practice involves prolonged voluntary laughter, in which it is thought to derive the same physiological and psychological health benefits than that of spontaneous laughter.

Benefits include:

• lowers the level of stress hormones (epinephrine, cortisol, etc.) in the blood

• oxygenates our body and brain, makes us feel more healthy and energetic

• it is believed that the body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter and gets the same physiological and psychological benefits

• ​helps to change your mood within minutes by releasing certain chemicals from your brain cells called endorphins

Diet is addressed in Ayurveda according to the season and individual bodily makeup. If you are feeling anxious, eating warm root vegetables will assist in grounding the energy. Oppositely, if you are feeling lethargy, eating pungent and light foods will assist systems of the body in movement. In Ayurveda it is always best to eat fresh foods that have the least amount of processing. The most important action one can take towards their food is blessing it with gratitude, no matter what the ingredients might be. If food choices are limited, you always have control of the intention you give your meal. Eat slowly, sitting down and chew food thoroughly and with mindfulness.
 
Meditation involves the gradual shutting down of all the body’s sensory channels, to learn to sit with oneself in stillness. It is meant as a means to turn inward and connect to a unified source, to find a way to bring a quiet moment of peace whenever it is needed. 

A simple sitting meditation called “so-hum” can teach an individual to bring their attention back to their breath, over and over again. Repeating in the mind “so” on the inhale, and “hum” on the exhale. “So-hum” in English translates to “I am”. Whenever there is conflict, return to the breath, and the mantra “so-hum”.

Ayurveda helps individuals to accept life as it is, and to flow with the rhythms of nature rather than reject or fight against them. Once acceptance has been achieved, moving through the nuances of daily life is less of a struggle. Mindful decisions can be made to persuade the energies around us, and to bring joy and positivity into the forefront of our daily activities. In Ayurveda we discuss the philosophy of karma, meaning action, work or deed; it also refers to the spiritual principle of cause and effect where intent and actions of an individual (cause) influence the future of that individual (effect). Developing good intent and good deeds contribute to good karma and future happiness, while developing bad intent and bad deeds contribute to bad karma and future suffering. ​

While being incarcerated is obviously extremely limiting in numerous ways, Ayurveda can assist individuals with tools to help them regain control of their body, mind and spirit.

Photo Credit: Robert Sturman

Highly cherished in ancient Ayurvedic texts, Guduchi is referred to in Sanskrit as ‘Amrita’, meaning "immortality”. ‘Amrita’ is considered one of several synonyms for ‘soma’, the drink of the devas (deities). This ‘Divine Nectar’ is a favorite among worshippers of higher knowledge and spiritual attainment.
 
In Hindi, Guduchi is known as ‘Giloy’. The plant boasts heart shaped leaves that mimic its affinity to working with the divine feminine. Guduchi is one of the best herbs in Ayurveda to pacify the Pitta dosha. Pitta (a combination of the fire and water elements) plays a huge role in the monthly menses cycle.
 
You may be feeling wiped out during your moon cycle, but Guduchi wants to help. Like Ashwagandha, Guduchi is an adaptogen which allows it to assist in reducing stress levels and fatigue. Also, as a direct acting antiviral and immunomodulator, Guduchi will bolster your immunity when you are feeling run down. If you are feeling anxious, Guduchi supports the proper function of the nervous system while promoting vitality. If you are experiencing pain during menstruation, Guduchi has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can work more effectively than aspirin. Guduchi pacifies the aggravation brought on by Pitta (the fire element) working to calm and alleviate acute inflammation.
 
Additionally, as well as relieving some of the inner ailments that our moon cycle may bring on, Guduchi also has anti-aging properties to keep skin blemishes, wrinkles and fine lines at bay; allowing your natural glow to shine through. Guduchi will help to keep you looking and feeling young by promoting longevity. For premature aging take ½ tsp of Guduchi with 1 cup of hot milk to slow down the biological clock. If you are craving sweets when aunt flow is visiting, make sure to take Guduchi for its ability to lower blood sugar levels. Guduchi has positive overall effects on both metabolism and digestion.
 
How Guduchi Can Help:

• Fights against stress, illness and fatigue
• Boosts overall immunity
• Operates as a direct acting antiviral
• Calms inflammation and protects the skin
• Contains anti-aging properties and promotes longevity
• Lowers blood sugar levels
• Protects the body against toxins and allergens

 
Guduchi works as an antioxidant to push waste materials out from the body, known in Ayurveda as ‘ama’, which is another reason it is a wonderful addition to a moon cycle self-care routine. Not only does it flush toxins out of the body, but it also acts as an overall rejuvenative, known in Ayurveda as ‘rasayana’. Combine Guduchi with Shatavari and Ashwagandha for the best results!
 
But Guduchi in not just for all of the Goddesses out there. Specifically, for men, Guduchi can boost sexual health and functioning, including sexual health problems like impotence or excessive, involuntary ejaculation. Taken regularly, Guduchi boosts blood circulation, while purifying and detoxing the system.
 
Moon Cycle Self-Care Rituals:

• Apply a warm castor oil compress to the abdomen to fight off cramping
• Drink Organic India’s Tulsi Sweet Rose tea to soothe and calm the senses
• Spritz yourself with rosewater when feeling over heated or aggravated
• Allow the body to rest as needed; legs up the wall is a wonderful resting pose
• Wear a pearl ring on the left-hand set in silver. Pearl strengthens the female reproductive system, improves fertility, and calms the emotions.
• Repeat the mantra “I am balanced in the flow of life”.
• Download this FREE guide for more inspiration!

 
Note: Guduchi is a plant in the same family as the plant from which latex comes from — please be mindful of taking Guduchi if you have a latex allergy.

NAMES

Scientific Name: Handroanthus impetiginosus (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos; Bigoneacea
Family: Bignoniaceae (1)
Genus: Tabebuia (1)
Species: impetiginosa
Synonyms: Tabebuia avellanedae, T. ipe, T. nicaraguensis, T. schunkeuigoi, T. serratifolia, T. altissima, T. palmeri, Gelseminum avellanedae, Handroanthus avellanedae, H. impetiginosus, Tecoma adenophylla, Tecoma avellanedae, Tecoma eximia, Tecoma impetiginosa, Tecoma integra, Tecoma ipe (1)
Common Names: Pau d'arco, ipê, ipê roxo, lapacho, tahuari, taheebo, pink trumpet tree, ipê-contra-sarna, tabebuia ipê, tajy, purple or red tabebuia (1)
Part Used: Bark, wood (1)

Main Preparation Method: tincture or decoction (1)
 
Botanical name (synonym): Tabebuia impetiginosa (1)

Tabebuia impetiginosa is a towering deciduous tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. Pau d’arco is used for its inner bark, referred to as “taheebo” or “lapacho”. This tree bark has been employed for thousands of years in the traditional healing practices of native tribes throughout these regions, including the Incas who also made bows out of the tree. (2)

Pau D’arco is made from the inner bark of several species
of Tabebuia trees that grow in Central and South America. (3)

CONSTITUENTS

Ascorbic acid, chromium, iodine, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, selenium, silicon, zinc, napthaquinones, flavonoids, carnosol, lapachenole, indoles, alkaloids, coenzyme Q10, steroidal saponins. (4)
Several compounds called naphthoquinones — mainly lapachol and beta-lapachone — have been isolated from this inner bark and are thought responsible for its purported benefits.

​
ORIGIN

Pau D’arco is native to South and Central America (specifically Brazil). It is not native to North America but grows in the warm parts of the country. Pau D’arco is derived from the inner bark of several species of Tabebuia trees. (5)

PARTS USED

The tree grows up to 125 feet high, has purple, pink, and yellow flowers, and pod-like fruits. The best quality Pau D'Arco is said to come from Argentina. The most potent part is the inner bark, which must be aged after harvesting to maximize its effectiveness. (5)

AYURVEDIC HERBAL ENERGETICS

Dosha effect: PK- V+ (6)
Rasa: tikta, kashaya, katu
Virya: shita
Vipaka: katu
Gunas: laghu, ruksha, sara

DHATUS AND SROTAS

Rasa, rakta
Rasavahasrotas, raktavahasrotas, pranavahasrotas, purishavahasrotas

KARMAS OF PAU D’ARCO

Alterative, antipyretic, antibiotic (6)

HISTORICAL USE

Pau D'Arco has been used by South and Central American indigenous peoples to treat skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, and cancer.
It was a primary medicine used by the Inca's and their descendants, the Callaway tribe. The name "Pau d' Arco" is Portuguese for "bow tree", an appropriate name after its use by the people of Brazil in make hunting bows.
In 1960, the use of Pau D'Arco was taken up in the Municipal Hospital of Santo Andre and used in the treatment of cancer patients. Today, the herb is sold in herb stores and regular pharmacies throughout Brazil. (1)

THERAPEUTIC USES

Enhances immune system function. Pau D’arco bark can be tinctured, incorporated into topical skin care regimes, or decocted as Pau D’arco tea.

Anti-inflammatory
Anti-tumor: inhibits the growth of tumors
Anti-cancer: inhibits the growth of cancer cells
Anti-coagulant: thins blood
Anti-viral: destroys and inhibits the spread of viruses.
Anti-bacterial: destroys and inhibits the growth of bacteria
Anti-fungal: destroys and inhibits the growth of fungus
Alterative: increase health and vitality by gradually restoring alignment to functions of the body.
Antibiotic: destroys and inhibits the growth of micro-organisms Anti-depressive: elevates mood
Antipsoratic: prevents and counters psoriasis
Astringent: tones and tightens the connective tissue of the skin Anti-diabetic: creates insulin to balance glucose levels Anti-parasitic: kills parasites
Anodyne: Painkiller
Analgesic: relieves pain
Digestive: aids in digestion
Diuretic: increases the production and secretion of urine Depurative: purifying and detoxifying, especially the blood Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure
Laxative: loosen stools and increase bowel movements

Other Uses

Immune system
Pau d'Arco boosts immune system response and function.
Used for infections, especially for candida and other yeast infections.
Staph infections
Urinary tract infections
Bacteria infections, such as brucellosis
Viral infections including influenza
Beneficial for dysentery, fevers, malaria, and ulcers.
Used for slowing and inhibiting the growth of cancer and tumors, especially leukemia.
Snakebite
Aids in the prevention and treatment of Liver disease, Hodgkin's disease, osteomyelitis, Parkinson's disease.
Used in the treatment of fungal infections, including: thrush, athlete's foot, nail fungus, ringworm.
Used in the treatment against chronic diseases, including: Diabetes, lupus, HIV, ulcers, herpes, hepatitis.
Allergies, recommended to combine Pau D'Arco with burdock to cleanse the blood during an allergic reaction or sudden skin flare up.
Sexually transmitted infections Allergies

Nervous system
Used in pain relief for Arthritis and chemotherapy

Circulatory system
Stimulates blood circulation Purifies the blood
Increases red blood cell count

Digestive system
Used in the treatment of colitis, gastritis, and stomach ulcers. Treats enlarged prostate.
Urinary tract infections
Gastrointestinal problems of all kinds
Constipation
Parasitic diseases such as schistosomiasis Stomach ulcers

Respiratory system
Asthma Bronchitis Cough

Reproductive system
Used in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections, including: HIV/AIDS, herpes, hepatitis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis.

Lymphatic system/detoxification
Has the ability to remove heavy metals from the body.
Aids well in the detoxification process carried out by the liver and lymphatic organs.

Musculoskeletal system
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder Osteoarthritis, cause by the wear and tear on joints

Skin care
Heals skin wounds and protects against infection. eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections.
Assists in external skin ailments such as warts, boils, ringworm, impetigo, cold sores, athlete's foot, and staph infections.
Effective in treating dermatitis and psoriasis when taken internally and topically.
Apply topically for the healing of sores, lesions, diaper rash, bruises.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

May have abortifacient properties, and cause toxicity to the reproductive organs in high doses.

Safety
​
Research on Pau D'arco's naphthoquinones constituents suggest that this herb may be contraindicated when using anticoagulants. Do not use Pau D'arco while taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, blood thinning drugs, such as Warfarin (Coumadin), Clopidogrel (Plavix), and Aspirin. Taking Pau D'arco with these may increase the risk of bleeding.

Consult a physician before using during pregnancy, because the herb may have abortifacient properties, it is likely unsafe to use internally when pregnant. But may be well tolerated when used topically for skin conditions in small doses. Pau D'arco should NOT be given to infants or children.

May slow blood clotting and could increase the chance of bleeding during or after surgery. Stop using at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.

Taking Pau D’Arco along with medications that slow blood clotting could increase the chances of bruising or bleeding.

Large amounts of lapachol (greater than 1.5g per day) may be toxic. side effects may include anemia, nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. If these symptoms occur, discontinue or lower dose. High doses can cause uncontrolled bleeding and vomiting.

REFERENCES

1. https://www.rain-tree.com/paudarco.htm 2. https://mountainroseherbs.com/pau-darco
3. Lapachol and lapachone analogs: a journey of two decades of patent research (1997-2016) <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28586252/>
4. North American Nighantu Manual by Nicole Herbert with Alakananda Ma
5.https://www.mercurialconsciousness.com/encyclopedia-of-herbs//pau-darco?rq=pau%20d%27arco
6. Lad., V. and Frawley., D., 2001. The Yoga Of Herbs. Lanham: Lotus Press, p.210

​There are so many options of sweeteners on the market today but none as pure and good for the planet as local organic honey. Honey contains Vitamins C, B3, B5, as well as folate, manganese, iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, and selenium. This is impressive compared to what else is offered on the shelves. Bees even have their own digestive enzymes that they transfer into the honey they make, bringing extra goodness to your gut!
 
Honey is not only delicious; it also provides longer lasting energy than sugar because it is lower in fructose and other trace minerals which gives off less of a blood spike than sugar does to the body. This means that it has a lower glycemic index than other sweeteners.
 
Honey is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-septic, anti-inflammatory… I think you get the picture! Some people believe that by ingesting honey with pollen it could also help with pollen allergies. Studies are inconclusive on that front, but I can see the correlation and it doesn’t hurt to try! 
 
The bottom line: There are many reasons to choose different types of sweeteners for different reasons, but to me honey is usually the clear winner.

NAMES

Scientific Name: Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. moscheutos


Common Names: hibiscus, ambary plant, burao, rosa sinensis, red sorrel, karkadi, kenaf, African mallow, Indian sorrel, Jamaica sorrel, Jamaica tea flower, roselle, Sudanese tea, red tea (1)

Sanskrit Name: Japā (2)

Family: Malvaceae (1)
Order: Malvales
Kingdom: Plantae
Rank: Genus
Higher Classification: Hibisceae

CONSTITUENTS

The tart taste of hibiscus is due to is content of 15 to 30% plant acids, including citric, malic, and tartaric acids. The wine-red color of the tea is the to anthocyans, including delphinidins and cyanidins. In tea, the herb yields mucilage and pectins. (3)

HABITAT

Hibiscus sabdariffa is a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae) and is native to parts of North Africa and Southeast Asia. 

PARTS USED

The flower, fresh, dried, cut, and powdered. (2)

The calyx (the structure around the petals) are the primary plant part used, specifically in teas for lowering blood pressure and for its cooling effect.
 

AYURVEDIC HERBAL ENERGETICS

Dosha effect:       PK- V0 (+ in excess)

Rasa:                   madhura (sweet) and kashayam (astringent) (2)
Virya:                  shita (2)
Vipaka:                madhura (sweet) (2)       
Gunas:                sattvic, light, dry

Hibiscus flowers taste madhura (sweet) and kashayam (astringent). (2)
They are cold in terms of potency and can reduce aggravated Pitta and balance Kapha. ... Ayurveda refers to this condition as Raktapradar. 
 

DHATU AND SROTAS

Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Majja, Shukra/Artava (3)
Circulatory, artavavahasrotas, majjavahasrotas (3)
 

KARMAS OF HIBISCUS

Rakta Shodhan (alterative), hemostatic, shitala (refrigerant), emmenagogue, demulcent, shulagna (antispasmodic), diuretic (4)
 

THERAPEUTIC USES

Cystitis, fever, inflammatory skin disorders, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, cough, fever, venereal diseases, circulatory disorders, constipation, hair loss, infections, heart burn, toxins in blood (4)

Hibiscus is a member of the Malvaceae family, or the mallow family of flowering plants. There are more than 200 species, all of which are known for their colorful, showy blooms. There are many folk remedies attributed to hibiscus flowers, including help with stomach or digestive problems, and to help soothe the nerves. Recently it has been added to many ready-made teas due to its high levels of anti-oxidants. The Journal of Human Hypertension published an article that showed that drinking hibiscus tea can reduce the blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes. (5)


CONTRAINDICATIONS

Severe chills, high Vata. Pregnancy. May be a contraceptive. (4)
​
Pregnancy was terminated in 92% of the animals and peripheral level of progesterone declined when benzene extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers was provided orally at 1 gm/kg/d from day 5-8 of gestation (6)
 

STUDIES
​
In a randomized clinical trial with 100 patients with mild hypertension and diabetes, drinking an infusion of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) three times daily for four weeks was shown to significantly decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. (6)

In a randomized trial, patients with metabolic syndrome treated with a Hibiscus sabdariffa extract powder had significantly reduced glucose and total cholesterol levels, increased HDL-c levels, and an improved TAG/HDL-c ratio (t-test p<0.05). A triglyceride-lowering effect was also observed. (6)

A one-year ethnobotanical study conducted by interviewing 48 people from Tamilnadu, India on their knowledge and uses of medicinal plants reported of the 139-plant species identified, Hibiscus rosa sinensis was ranked eighth in use value. (6)
 

CONCLUSION

African folk medicine uses hibiscus as a diuretic, to relieve pressure in the gallbladder, and to relax the uterus. The mucilage in the herb make it a mild laxative, but they are also helpful when the herb is used as a wash to treat weeping eczema. Regular consumption of hibiscus teas often lowers blood pressure, typically 8 to 12 mm/Hg. Hibiscus is also the source of the hydroxycitric acid (HCA, or hydroxycut) used in many diet formulas. This compound has been long used to fight obesity. Scientific studies with lab animals find that it stops the conversion of carbs in food
to body fat. It fights appetite and encourages weight loss not by increasing energy expenditure but by encouraging the "wasting" of carbohydrates. HCA does not enhance weight loss during low-carb or Atkins-style diets, but it does help weight loss when used with a program of general calorie restriction reducing consumption of carbs, protein, and fats equally. Hibiscus powder will have more of a laxative effect than other forms of the herb. It delivers more HCA. It is also more likely to help lower LDL cholesterol, although definitive research of the use of this herb for controlling high cholesterol has not been completed. Hibiscus is Good for Controlling Pitta Diseases. (3)
 

REFERENCES
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1. Cms.herbalgram.org. 2020. American Botanical Council: Herb Med Pro. [online] Available at: <http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbmedpro/index.html#param.wapp?sw_page=@@subcategory%3FherbID%3D272> [Accessed 3 June 2020].

2. Lad., V. and Frawley., D., 2001. The Yoga Of Herbs. Lanham: Lotus Press, p.124, 204.

3. O’Dunn, D., 2011. Florida Academy of Ayurveda, Herb Manual, Page 73

4. Alandi Ashram Herb Spreadsheet

5. Cms.herbalgram.org. 2020. American Botanical Council: Herb Med Pro. [online] Available at: <http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbmedpro/index.html#param.wapp?sw_page=@@subcategory%3FherbID%3D272> [Accessed 3 June 2020].

6. Cross J. MEDLINE, PubMed, PubMed Central, and the NLM. Editors' Bulletin. 2006;2(1):1-5. doi:10.1080/17521740701702115

​Feeling anxious? Anxiety is one of the most common sufferings among the current population. (Not to mention the fear of the unknown around the current situation regarding COVID-19!). While you should talk to you doctor to determine if medication is needed, there are practices you can implement into your daily lifestyle to combat this type of stress. Here are a few of my favorites.
 
Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breath):
Create a peace symbol with your dominant hand, then lower the peace sign (index and middle finger) and raise the thumb, ring and pinky fingers. With your palm facing you, close off the right nostril with your thumb, exhaling through the left. Inhale through the left nostril, then close off the left nostril at the top of the breath with your ring finger, release your thumb from the right nostril to open for the exhale. Repeat back and forth, alternating nostrils. This breath work technique regulates the right and left hemispheres of the brain and clams the nervous system.
 
Metta Meditation:
Repeat 4x, first directing the words to yourself, then to a loved one, to an acquaintance, and lastly to someone you are having difficulty with. If the last round provides to be too difficult, use the final round to direct the words to all sentient beings.
            “May I/you feel protected and safe,
             May I/you feel contented and pleased,
             May my/your body support you with strength,
             May my/your life unfold smoothly and with ease.”
 
Community:
Instead of using technology to scroll through fearful articles or social media arguments, call your friends and family using FaceTime (or a similar platform) so that you can see their faces while you connect. Make a commitment to limit and use social media for promoting good.
 
Aromatherapy:
The olfactory system is one of the fastest ways to connect to the central nervous system. Unpleasant or bad smells actually send pain signals to the brain to warn us of possible danger. Alternately, pleasant fragrances tell the body it can relax. Commonly used fragrances to mellow out to include lavender, rose, frankincense, ylang ylang and cinnamon.
 
Oil:
Oiling my feet before bed with organic sesame oil guides the energy downward and pacifies the vata dosha. Wipe off excess oil and wear socks if desired.

​We’ve been hearing it a lot lately; wash your hands. While extremely important, there is much more that you can do to help boost immunity during times when you need it (i.e. the coronavirus). Here are some simple ayurvedic tips to help boost your immunity during the winter season, or when dealing with a public health crisis.
 
1. Diet, diet, DIET. Start by making a change to a plant-based diet. This doesn’t mean eliminating meat or dairy, but rather focusing on having vegetables and fruits as the main portions of your meals. Bitter greens (think chard, spinach, kale, arugula), broccoli, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, okra, bitter gourd, berries, oranges, lemons, papaya; all of these vibrant foods carry a serious punch of vitamins and antioxidants. The brighter the better! This is your first line of defense against an illness. And don’t forget to spice it up with garlic, cayenne, ginger, turmeric, coriander, cumin and fennel!
 
2. Take your daily herbs. Tulsi (which can also be taken as a tea) supports the respiratory system, Ashwagandha works as an adaptogen for the whole body, and Guduchi assists with total body detoxification. These are just a few of the many ayurvedic herbs to help boost immunity.
 
3. Take your nightly triphala. Triphala is one of the best herbs to detoxify the body of waste material. Known by the proverb: “One who has no mother at home, his mother is triphala”. It helps to flush the liver, kidneys and GI tract.
 
4. Oil yourself daily. In ayurveda this is called abhyanga, which means ‘oil massage’. Using organic sesame or coconut oil cover the entire surface of your skin. Not only are these oils anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial, they are high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and will act as a barrier between your skin and potential infectants. Use a Q-tip to swap your nostrils to create a barrier for your nose.
 
5. Keep it moving. You may be avoiding large public places including the gym, but don’t let that stop you from feeling a light sweat. If you live near nature go outside for a few early morning sun rays, as long as the trails aren’t too crowded. If you are opting to stay indoors, try yoga (I know you keep saying you want to try it). If you are feeling more energized, simply turning up the tunes for an at home dancing session is not only good for the body, but also wonderful for the mind and spirit!
 
6. If feeling run down, sleep it out! Create yummy nightly routines and rituals to help you get into the mood to sleep. Having a cup of hot chamomile tea in the evening can help the body to relax before your nightly slumber. Add some honey – it’s an anti-viral! Oil your feet and slip socks on before going to bed to ground your energy. Getting enough rest is crucial to a healthy immune system.
 
Lastly, I’ll continue the broken record, keep washing your hands. This should be a no-brainer whether there is a global health pandemic or not. Germs like to hang around on clothes and metal objects, including door handles and faucets. Do what you can to avoid catching any illness but know that if you do you’ve taken all the right steps to fight it with a strong immune system.    
 
You can order a one-month supply of triphala or get a custom herbal formula made for your needs by contacting me at prema.shakti@hibiskissayurveda.com.

Ghee has been used since ancient times in traditional āyurvedic cooking. Simply put, ghee is clarified butter. It is composed almost entirely of fat.

Ghee in moderation does not increase total cholesterol and in turn, it actually can help build the good cholesterol your body needs. The recipe for ghee removes the residue from butter (including water and milk solids), and has a longer shelf-life with no refrigeration necessary. It is a pure golden oil that, although produced from milk, has different qualities than that of a diary product. Ghee is free from trans-fatty acids, lactose and casein.
​
Ghee is tri-doshic and provides benefits for all. Said to be a sattvic food, ghee has a nuttier taste than that of butter or margarine. It is great to use as a spread, in place of cooking oil, and for additional āyurvedic therapies.