In traditions around the world, ginger is used therapeutically. Most health professionals recognize the amazing healing qualities found in ginger. According to Ayurveda, ginger pacifies both kapha and vata, and it increases pitta. Ginger’s most impressive quality is how it helps digestion. It is an excellent spice for digestion and cleansing the body of ama (undigested food in the body). Ginger is excellent for constipation, the heart, cholesterol, coughs and colds, improves circulation, headaches, relieves distention, is a blood purifier and its great for respiratory conditions. Really, these are just some conditions in which ginger is good for. In reality, you can use ginger for just about any ailment.

The bigger question here is how do you use it. For coughs and colds, a remedy I use widely is green tea with fresh ginger and lemon. You will find some immediate relief and you will find that your recovery time has been reduced by at least half. Drink it about 3 to 4 times a day at minimum. If you find that you don’t like green tea, simply having hot water with ginger and lemon will also do the trick. Green tea is high and anti-oxidants and that is one reason why I like to add green tea to this home remedy.

To increase digestion, have a slice of fresh ginger before meals. Ginger will stimulate the digestion and is also good for those who have a loss of appetite. To prevent bloating, have a glass of hot water with ginger during meals. Another great way to ensure that you are able to digest your meal is to cook with ginger. Ginger adds spice and flavor to meals.

Ginger can also be used for chronic arthritis. Take about 10 grams of freshly grated ginger and boil it in about 1 liter of water. Sip this warm infusion only during the day. This same remedy can be used for vata type of pain.

Let me know if you have any questions, but ginger is excellent for just about everyone. However, never apply any sort of ginger pastes to skin lesions and rashes and do not use in cases of severe bleeding and high fevers.

Health and happiness,

Varsha

The winter season is the Vata time of the year. Remember that Vata is comprised of air and space and hence tends to be cool, windy, dry and rough. So, if you have a Vata imbalance, you are more likely to be affected by the Vata season. Dry skin is typically a result of a Vata imbalance.

So what is the best way to prevent and heal dry skin? By countering the dryness. First and foremost, avoid all cold foods and drinks, as well as all dry foods. By consuming anything cold, you will be increasing the dryness in your body and of course, eating dry foods will also take away any moisture that is there.

Next, rather than resorting to moisturizers and chemically filled lotions, doing a daily self-massage with natural oils is recommended. If you must use lotions, use natural, organic moisturizers. In Ayurveda, an oil massage is known as Abhyanga. In the mornings about 20 minutes before you shower, give yourself an oil massage. For Vata and Kapha body types, sesame oil is recommended. For Vata, another option is almond oil and for Pitta types, coconut oil is recommended. How do you know which oil to use? Well, if you tend to have a cool and irregular digestion and if you have a tendency to be sensitive to the cold and often feel cold, then its best to use sesame oil. If you tend to have a strong digestion and are feeling hot more often, then to provide some coolness to the body, it is best to use coconut oil. Olive oil can also be used for all body types. Feel free to contact me if you would like more specifics as to which oil to use.

It is ideal if you can leave the oil on for 20 minutes and either meditate or do some other light activity so that your body has the opportunity to absorb the oil and nourish your skin, joints, and tissues. Be sure to massage all areas of your body, and paying especially close attention to your scalp and soles of your feet. Abhyanga is contraindicated for those who are ill, especially with fevers, and during menstruation. You will begin to notice within the first week that your skin is softer, smooth, and nourished. Your skin will also look healthier and daily abhyanga is a great way to keep the skin looking young and vibrant. It’s also a great way to release stress and relax! Besides, who doesn’t enjoy a nice massage?

Health and happiness,

Varsha