Going by some stunning data, over 53 million Americans suffer from conditions related to poor bone density. When bone density is reduced, the bones start becoming weaker. The fall out is a higher risk of bone fractures. It becomes even more difficult to manage when the fractures are located in the hip, joints, spine or wrist. Here’s where natural healing systems of wellness like Ayurveda can offer help to strengthen the bones, increase bone mass, rejuvenate and lubricate the joints.
For any herb, food or medicine to be effective, according to Ayurveda, it must provide the qualities necessary to restore balance in the body. For example, if you are suffering from too much dryness, Ayurveda recommends a remedy that will deliver moist, lubricating qualities to offset the excess dryness. This is a simple explanation for the therapeutic action that sesame oil and sesame seeds are capable of providing. Sesame oil, specifically, is a tonic.
Abhyanga refers to the practice of massaging warm oil, often sesame oil, into the skin. The recommended duration for abhyanga is 15 minutes, after which the excess oil is rinsed off in a steamy shower. The intention is to absorb as much of the oil as possible. Sesame oil is the only oil that has the power to penetrate all seven layers of the skin, deep into the body’s organs and tissues, ultimately strengthening the bones.
Also Read: Everything You Need To Know About Abhyanga And Its Benefits
Researchers believe that veldt grape helps increase the uptake of calcium. Calcium is one of the key nutrients that increases bone strength. There has also been evidence to suggest that taking veldt grape everyday can reduce a person’s risk of fracturing a bone by up to 40 percent.
Cissus quadrangularis is very high in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant nutrient that has been shown to reduce inflammation. Inflammation can cause pain, swelling and numerous other health problems. Many health experts compare the pain-relieving effects of cissus quadrangularis to Aspirin or Ibuprofen.
Amla is extremely rich in vitamin C, having thirty percent more than oranges. It’s packed with many vitamins, minerals, tannins and other helpful nutrients. Amla is good for strong bones, teeth and nails, as it helps the body absorb calcium. Amla also works well for inflammation. It is a good anti-inflammatory for joints especially.
Njavarakizhi is also known as shashtikashali pinda swedam. Njavara stands for the rice(Shashtika Shali in Sanskrit) that grows in 60 days ; Kizhi (Pinda in Sanskrit) stands for bolus. Njavara is indigenous variety of rice grown in Kerala, having medicinal properties. It is a unique treatment procedure practiced by Kerala Ayurveda physicians (Vaidyas). It is a procedure by which the whole body or any specific part is made to perspire , by the application of certain medicinal drugs with Njavara rice puddings externally in the form of boluses tied up in a muslin bag.
Procedure:
A generous amount of medicated oil is applied over the head and body. Then the body is massaged with warm muslin bag bolus containing njavara rice puddings cooked in the herbal decoction. The boluses are dipped in the mixture of warm milk and herbal decoctions when they cool down thus inducing sudation. The procedure is done in seven different postures. At the end of the procedure , the rice paste sticking over the body is removed using coconut leaves. A gentle massage is given with warm medicated oil once again. The person is made to rest for 30 minutes.
Duration of the treatment: 90 minutes.
Benefits
Makes the body supple and removes stiffness
Calms the mind and reduces the stress
Promotes sound sleep
Boosts immune system and slows the aging process
Enhances body nourishment and rejuvenates
Improves lustre and texture of the skin
Sharpens the sense organs
Pacifies Vata Dosha
Strengthens and nourishes the nervous system
Stiff joints are bathed in warm medicated oil. This treatment also includes a massage to the affected area. Choose from the following:
*Katti Basti – Lower Back
*Greeva Basti – Neck and Shoulders
*Janu Basti – Knees
(Also Read; 6 benefits of janu basti for severe knee pain)
What is the best place to receive all these treatments?
For the most holistic and rejuvenating Panchakarma experience, head over to The Art of Living International Retreat Center, state-of-the-art wellness center nestled on the lap of Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina that promises an immersive spiritual and physically invigorating journey. For more information on the Panchakarma Retreat this January, go here!
