DENGUE

FACT SHEET ON DENGUE FEVER AND DENGUE HAEMORRHAGIC FEVER

GENERAL

Dengue is an acute fever caused by a virus. It occurs in two forms:

(a) Dengue Fever

(b) Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever

Dengue fever is marked by the onset of sudden high fever, severe

headache and pain behind the eyes, muscles and joints.

Dengue Haemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a more severe form, in which

bleeding and sometimes shock occurs  – leading to death. It is most serious in

children. Symptoms of bleeding usually occur after 3-5 days of fever.

The high fever continues for five to six days (103 – 105 ^oF or 39- 40 ^oC). It

comes down on the third or the fourth day but rises again. The patient feels much

discomfort and is very weak after the illness.

Dengue spreads rapidly and may affect large number of people during an

epidemic resulting in reduced work productivity, sometimes death also.

RECOGNITION OF DENGUE FEVER

· Sudden onset of high fever

· Severe headache (mostly in the forehead)

· Pain behind the eyes which worsens with eye movement

· Body aches and joint pains

· Nausea or vomiting

RECOGNITION OF DENGUE HAEMORRHAGIC FEVER AND SHOCK

Symptoms similar to dengue fever plus, any one of the following:

(1) Severe and continuous pain in abdomen;

(2) Bleeding from the nose, mouth and gums or skin bruising

(3) Frequent vomiting with or without blood

(4) Black stools, like coal tar

(5) Excessive thirst (dry mouth)

(6) Pale, cold skin

(7) Restlessness, or sleeplessness

TREATMENT

There is no specific medicine for the treatment of the disease. However

proper and early treatment can relieve the symptoms and prevent complications

and death. 

Aspirin and Brufen should be avoided in dengue fever, as it is known to increase the bleeding tendency and also it increases the stomach pain.

Paracetamol can be given on medical advice.  If one or more signs of

Dengue Haemorrhagic fever are seen, take the patient to the hospital

immediately. Give fluids to drink while transferring the patient to the

hospital.

BASIC FACTS ON DENGUE

(a) How dengue spreads?

Dengue is spread by  the bite of an infected mosquito Aedes aegypti. The mosquito gets the virus by biting the infected persons. The first symptoms of the

disease occur about 5-7 days after an infected bite.

There is no way to tell if a mosquito is carrying the dengue virus.

Therefore, people must protect themselves from all mosquito bites.

(b) Where does the mosquito live?

The mosquito rests indoors, in closets and other dark places. Outside, they rest where it is cool and shaded. The female mosquito lays eggs in water containers in and around homes, schools and other areas in towns or

villages. These eggs become adult in about 10 days.

(c) Where does the mosquito breed?

Dengue mosquitoes breed in stored exposed water collections.


FAVOURED BREEDING PLACES ARE:

Barrels, drums, jars, pots, buckets, flower vases, plant saucers, tanks,

discarded bottles, tins, tyres, water cooler, etc. and a lot more places where rainwater collects or is stored.

PREVENTION OF DENGUE

All efforts of control should be directed against the mosquitoes. It is important to take control measures to eliminate the mosquitoes and their breeding places. However, the efforts should be intensified before the transmission season (during and after the rainy season) and at the time of the epidemic.

PREVENT MOSQUITO BITES:

Dengue mosquitoes bite during the daytime. Protect yourself from the bite.

(1) Wear full sleeve clothes and long dresses to cover the limbs;

(2) Repellent  – mosquito repellents can be used to escape from its bite. But care should be taken in using repellents on small children and old age people.

(3) Use mosquito coils and electric vapour mats during the daytime.

(4) Use mosquito nets – to protect babies, old people and others.

(5) Protection and isolate the people sick with dengue to prevent its spread to others.

PREVENTION OF MULTIPLICATION OF MOSQUITOES:

Drain water from coolers, tanks, barrels, drums and buckets, etc.

Remove water from refrigerator drip pans.

All stored water containers should be kept covered.

Discard solid waste and objects where water collects (Eg: bottles,tins,tyres,etc.)

ALWAYS REMEMBER

Dengue fever is a severe flu like illness rarely causes death but Dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a more severe form, in which bleeding and occasionally shock occur, leading to death.

Persons suspected of having dengue fever or DHF must see a doctor. Dengue haemorrhagic fever is a deadly disease and early recognition and treatment can save lives. Unless proper treatment is given

promptly, the patient may go into shock and die.

Dengue mosquitoes bite during the day.

Doctors and health workers treating cases of dengue fever should also

notify the health authorities.

Ref: Article by WHO.

AASYAPAAKAM and its Treatment

Stomatitis is an inflammation of the mucous lining of any of the parts of the mouth, including the cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, and roof or floor of the mouth. The word "stomatitis" literally means "inflammation of the mouth." This inflammation can be caused by conditions in the mouth itself, such as poor oral hygiene, poorly fitted dentures, mouth burns from hot food or drinks, or by conditions that affect the entire body, such as medications, allergic reactions, or infections.

Stomatitis is usually a painful condition, with redness, swelling, bleeding,or bad breath. Stomatitis affects all age groups, from the infant to the elderly.

A number of factors can cause stomatitis. Poorly fitted oral appliances, cheek biting, or jagged teeth can irritate the mouth. Chronic breathing through the mouth becuase of clogged nasal passages can dry the mouth, which can leadto irritation. 

Diseases such as cold sores, gonorrhea, measles, AIDS, and lack of vitamin C can cause stomatitis.

Canker sores are a specific type of stomatitis that causes shallow, painful ulcers usually located on the lips, cheeks, gums, or roof or floor of the mouth. These ulcers can range from pinpoint size to up to an inch or more. Though the cause of canker sores is unknown, nutritional deficiencies (especially vitamin B₁₂, folate, or iron) is suspected.

Generalized stomatitis can be caused by too much alcohol, spices, hot food, or tobacco products. Sensitivity to mouthwashes, toothpastes, and lipstick canirritate the lining of the mouth. Exposure to heavy metals, such as mercury,lead, or bismuth can cause stomatitis. 

Thrush (a type of fungal infection) is also a type of stomatitis.

It can be hard to diagnose stomatitis. A doctor will conduct a physical examination to evaluate the oral lesions and other skin problems. Blood tests or scrapings of the lining of the mouth may be evaluated in a culture or under amicroscope to identify any infections.

Treatments of AASYAPAAKAM

1) Triphala Choorna- for Gargling (Act as disinfectant)

2) Arimedadi tailam- for mouth wash (Will regain the strength if the gum)

3) Anuthailam- for nasya

4) Laxation or Purgation-to remove the indigested bowel (AMAM)

5) Appetizers like Ashtachoornam, Vaiswanara choornam, etc
6) Kashaya like Gandharva Hasthadi, Punarnavadi, Manjishtadi, etc(Ama pachana +Vathanulomana)

running nose

running nose can be treated by applying
Rasnadi choorna over head
Vasarishta+Amruthaarishta


after that some lehya should be given

Rejuvenation in Ayurveda

Rasayana is the method of disease prevention and life extension in Ayurveda, to strengthen the body and mind after the doshas have been eliminated or balanced. Although it can be used during the treatment of a disease, the best results are obtained when the body has been purified of ama (wastes), and the patient has undergone either shamana chikitsa (balancing therapy) or pancha karma (purification).

Vata Rasayana
Ashwagandha root 3 parts 
Shatavari root 3 parts 
Brahmi herb 2 parts 
Gokshura root 2 parts 
Bala root 2 parts 
Jatamamsi root 2 parts 
Licorice root 1 part 

Rx: 3-5 g of the powdered herb, taken with honey and ghee, twice daily

Pitta Rasayana 
Amalaki fruit 3 parts 
Shatavari root 3 parts 
Gotu Kola herb 3 parts 
Bhringaraj herb 2 parts 
Guduchi vine 2 parts 
Sandalwood bark 1 part 
Licorice root 1 part 

Rx: 3-5 g of the powdered herb, taken with ghee, twice daily

Kapha Rasayana 
Bibhitaki fruit 3 parts 
Guduchi vine 3 parts 
Guggulu resin 2 parts 
Arjuna bark 2 parts 
Fenugreek seed 2 parts 
Cardamom seed 1 part 
Black Pepper fruit 1 part 

Rx: 3-5 g of the powdered herb, taken with honey, twice daily 

Pancha maha bhoota theory

These five elements are:

or Akasha 
Air or Vayu 
Fire or Tejas 
Water or Apa 
Earth or Prithvi

Likewise other elements too were intended by the ancient vaidyas (physicians) to communicate the essential universal principle inherent in a particular element. By fire we mean the universal force in nature that produces heat and radiates light; it is our passion to pursue despite obstacles and delays; it is what burns away the cloak of ignorance (avidya) and allows the Truth to shine with brilliance. Fire removes doubt from the mother-substance of human heart and replaces it with joy. Air is that transparent, rarefied, kinetic force which sets the universe in motion; it moves the blood through the vessels, wastes from the body, thoughts through the mind; it moves the birds to warmer climates in winter, it moves the planets around their suns. Space is the subtlest of all elements which is everywhere and touches everything; in the mind it is the vessel which receives all impressions, in the heart space accepts love; space is receptivity and non-resistance to what is true.

Within a single living cell the earth element predominates by giving structure to the cell. The water element is present in the cytoplasm or the liquid within the cell membrane. The fire element regulates the metabolic processes regulating the cell. While the air element predominates the gases therein. The space occupied by the cell denoting the last of the elements.

NAGARADI CHOORNAM

NAGARADI(MANIKKUNTHIRIKKADI )CHOORNAM

Manikkunthirikkam vacha chukku meera
arakkodu cheninayakam chenchalyamellam
karikkinte thondinte neerodu cherthi-
ttarachonnu thechal samikkunnu sopham

BHALLATHAKAM

Bhallataka is one of the best, versatile, most commonly used herbs as a household remedy. It has been freely used all over India since centuries. It was held in high esteem by the ancient sages of Ayurveda. Maharsi Caraka has categorized bhallataka as dipaniya an appetizer, bhedaniya – accumulation breaking herb, mutra sangrahaniya – antidiuretic and kusthaghna – anti dermatosis. It has been mentioned as vajikara – an aphrodisiac, especially beneficial in the failure of penile erection and sexual debility. (Sarngadhara Samhita) The great sage Susruta mentions it as stanyasodhana – lactodepurant. Bhallataka is acclaimed as a drug of choice in the treatment of piles of vata and kapha types. It is recommended as a rejuvenative (rasayana) to kapha dosa and asthivaha srotasa.




The word bhallataka describes the sharp attribute of the herb, in comparison to that of a javelin. It has various synonyms, ascribing the different properties, like anala – a fire, sopha krta one which causes oedema, krmighna vermicide, vatari enemy of vata etc.



Bhallataka grows throughout India in hot weather and in Himalaya’s upto 1000 metres height. The plant is found in abundance in Bihar, Bengal and Orissa. It is a medium sixed tree growing upto 10-15 metres in height. The bark is grey in colour and exudes an irritant secretion on incising. The leaves are 30-60 cm long and 12-30 cm broad. They are glabrous above and pubescent beneath. The flowers are greenishwhite, in panicles. Fruits are 2-3 cm broad. The flowering occurs in june and then onwards the plant bears fruits.



The botanical name of bhallataka is Semecarpus anacardium and it belongs to family Anacardiaceae. An alkaloid, Bhilawanol, has been isolated from oil and seeds. Bhilwanol from fruits was shown to be a mixture of cis and Trans isomers of ursuhenol (Naure 1960, 186, 389). Other components isolated are anacardic acid, cardol, catechol, fixed oil, anacardol and semecarpol. From the defatted nuts, three biflavonoids A, B and C have been isolated. A new biflabonoid jeediflavone and galluflavone isolated from nut shells



Properties



Bhallataka is sweet and astringent in taste, sweet in the post digestive effect and has hot potency. It alleviates kapha and vata dosas and possesses light, unctuous sharp (tiksna) and hot (usna) attributes. It is extremely heat generating, appetizer, digestant, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac herb and alleviates the skin and rheumatic disorders. (Bhavaprakasa Nighantu)



Uses



Bhallataka is used both, internally as well as externally. The fruits, their oil and the seeds have great medicinal value, and are used to treat the wide range of diseases. Externally, the oil, mixed with coconut or sesame oil, is applied on wounds and sores to prevent the pus formation. It soothens and heals the cracked feet, when

mixed with fala (Shorea robusta). For better healing of wounds, it works well, when medicated with garlic, onion and ajavayana in sesame oil. The topical application of its oil and swollen joints and traumatic wounds effectively controls the pain. In glandular swellings and filariasis, the application of its oil facilitates to drain out the discharges of pus and fluids and eases the conditions.




Since bhallataka is extremely hot and sharp in its attributes, it should be used with caution. Individuals showing allergic reactions to it, should stop and avoid the usage of bhallataka. It should not be used in small children, very old persons, pregnant women and individuals of predominant pitta constitution. The use of the same should be restricted in summer season. For its allergic reactions like rash, itching and swelling, the antidotes used externally are coconut oil, rala ointment, ghee, coriander leaves pulp or butter mixed with musta (Cyperus rotundus).



Internally, bhallataka is widely used in a vast range of diseases because of its multifarious properties. As it augments the agni, it is extremely beneficial in the diseases like piles, colitis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, ascites, tumours and worms which are caused mainly due to weakened agni. For this, one fruit of bhallataka is hold with tong over a flame and heated slightly. On gentle pressing, the oil starts dripping gradually. This oil is collected on the beatle leaf with small amount of sugar on its surface or in a cup of milk. Approximately 10 drops in children and 15-20 drops in adults are sufficient. It augements the appetite, cleanses the bowels, dispels the trapped gases and eliminates the worms. This is how the bhallataka is used as a household remedy.



Bhallataka is highly praised to treat the piles (haemorrhoids) of vata and kapha types, meaning in non – bleeding conditions. It is an effective adjuvant in the treatment of ascites and tumours. In bronchial asthma and cough, it is one of the best medicament for which, its preparation bhallatakasava is commonly used. It reduces the bronchospasms and their frequency too. Cardiac debility, associated with odema can be treated with great benefit. The milk medicated with bhallataka or bhallataka modaka mitigates the skin diseases like scabies, eczema, ringworm infestations. As a nervine tonic, it is beneficial in the diseases due to vata, like sciatica, paralysis, facial palsy, epilepsy, rheumatic conditions and also asa brain tonic. The combination, bhallataka, haritaki, tila (sesame seeds) powders with jaggery, awards excellent results in chronic rheumatic disorders. Bhallataka is said to augment the memory, as it boosts the sadhaka pitta and nourishes the nervine tissue. It also works well as aphrodisiac by its stimulant action and enhances the seminal fluids. In dysmenorrheal (painful menstruation) and oligomenorrhea (scanty menstruation), the medicated milk or its oil is salubrious. It reduces the urinary output, hence beneficial in diabetes of kapha type,

ASHOKA

SARACA INDICA


Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae


Asoka is one of the cardinal herbs recommended in scriptures of Ayurveda for umpteen gynaecological problems in women. This plant is known to us since ages, as mention of this plant has been made in Ramayana, where Sita after abduction was confined in Asoka vatika. We also have references of Lord Buddha’s birth under Asoka tree. The herb is aptly said to be a companion of women as it rejuvenates the female reproductive system and is salutary in treating various gynaecological problems. (Nighantu Katnakara)



Asoka tree grows all over India; it is found growing suitably at an altitude of 750 metres in the Himalayas, Khasi, Garo and Lushai hills. It is an evergreen tree, reaching a maximum height of 9 metres. It is not found to be cultivated on commercial scale, but in gardens, because of its decorative flowers and beautiful foliage. The branches of the tree are glabrous and drooping. The leaves are 30-60 cm in length, in 2-3 pairs of lanceolate leaflets. The flowers are orang-yellow, fragrant, in dense corymbs. They are 8-10 cms across, calys yellow to orange and finally red. Its stamens are 7 to 8 and filaments are filiform. The bark is dark brown to grey in colour and it is collected from the plant by making longitudinal and transverse incisions. Asoka blooms in the summer and bears fruits in October.


The botanical name of Asoka is Saraka indica and it belongs to family Caesalpiniaceae. Asoka has been often confused with Polyalthis longifolia, which is called as false Asoka, Sitosterol, quercetin, kaempferol, glucoside isolated from flowers. Isolation of leucopelargonidin-3-o-d- glucoside, leucopelargonidun and leucocyanidin along with sitosterol from stem bark isolated.


Properties


Asoka is bitter and astringent in taste, pungent in post digestive effect and has a cold potency. It alleviates vata and kapha dosas. It possesses laghu (light) and ruksa (dry ) attributes. (Bhavaprakasa)


It is beneficial in the treatment of excessive uterine bleeding, dysmenorrheal – painful menstruation, bleeding piles, leucorrhea and many other diseases.


Uses


The skin of the bark, seeds, flowers and the fruits of Asoka are used for medicinal purpose. This herb is seldom used externally. When used externally, the paste of its bark – skin is beneficial in combating pain associated with oedema or swelling.


Internally, it is effectively used in women to treat various gynaecological disorders. The decoction of skin of the bark is given in dosage 10 – 15 ml, two or three times daily, to arrest excessive menstrual bleeding. It imparts excellent results in dysmenorrheal, where menstruation is associated with colicky abdominal pain. Asoka reinforces the uterine musculature, hence is benevolent in prolapse or inflammatory conditions of the uterus. It also has a remarkable healing effect of the endometrium or the mucous membrane of uterus and a stimulant action on the ovary. As a whole, it renders the puissant rejuvenative actions on the uterus, hence aptly called as garbhasaya rasayana, menaing – the uterine tonic. The decoction of skin of Asoka by itself, or mixed with equal quantity of milk, effectively mitigates menorrhagia, leucorrhea, the medicated wine of Asoka, Asokarista, is an excellent remedy for irregularities of menstrual cycle. Women who have tendency towards abortions and miscarriages should be treated, with great benefit, with Asokaghrta – the medicated ghee of Asoka from the fourth month of pregnancy onwards (second trimester).


Due to its astringent taste and cold potency, Asoka is salutary in arresting the bleeding or haemorrhages in dysentery, colitis, piles, and raktapitta. (Bhavaprakasa). It combines well with asvagandha as uterine tonic. Asoka seeds are diuretic – increase the quantity of urine, hence used in strangury and urinary stones. The flowers are considered to be a uterine tonic and are used in vitiated conditions of pitta, syphilis, cervical adenitis, and hyperdispepsia – excessive thirst, burning sensation, piles and dysentery.


Classical Ayurvedic Preparations


Asokarista
Asoka ghrta
Asoka vati
Asokadi kvatha etc.

How to improve your Brain

How to improve your Brain

Everyone can take steps to improve their memory, and with time and practice most people can gain the ability to memorize seemingly impossible amounts of information. Whether you want to win the World Memory Championships, ace your history test, or simply remember where you put your keys, this article can get you started. Scientists believe that exercising your brain can create a cognitive reserve' that will help you stay sharp as you age.







1. Convince yourself that you do have a good memory that will improve. Too many people get stuck here and convince themselves that their memory is bad, that they are just not good with names, that numbers just slip out of their minds for some reason. Erase those thoughts and vow to improve your memory. Commit yourself to the task and bask in your achievements — it's hard to keep motivated if you beat yourself down every time you make a little bit of progress.






2. Keep your brain active. The brain is not a muscle, but regularly exercising the brain actually does keep it growing and spurs the development of new nerve connections that can help improve memory. By developing new mental skills—especially complex ones such as learning a new language or learning to play a new musical instrument—and challenging your brain with puzzles and games you can keep your brain active and improve its physiological functioning.






3. Exercise daily. Regular aerobic exercise improves circulation and efficiency throughout the body, including in the brain, and can help ward off the memory loss that comes with aging. Exercise also makes you more alert and relaxed, and can thereby improve your memory uptake, allowing you to take better mental pictures.






4. Reduce stress. Chronic stress, although it does not physically damage the brain, can make remembering much more difficult. Even temporary stresses can make it more difficult to effectively focus on concepts and observe things. Try to relax, regularly practice yoga or other stretching exercises, and see a doctor if you have severe chronic stress.






5. Eat well and eat right. There are a lot of herbal supplements on the market that claim to improve memory, but none have yet been shown to be effective in clinical tests (although small studies have shown some promising results for ginkgo biloba and phosphatidylserine) . A healthy diet, however, contributes to a healthy brain, and foods containing antioxidants— broccoli, blueberries, spinach, and berries, for example—and Omega-3 fatty acids appear to promote healthy brain functioning. Feed your brain with such supplements as Thiamine, Vitamin E, Niacin and Vitamin B-6. Grazing, eating 5 or 6 small meals throughout the day instead of 3 large meals, also seems to improve mental functioning (including memory) by limiting dips in blood sugar, which may negatively affect the brain.






6. Take better pictures. Often we forget things not because our memory is bad, but rather because our observational skills need work. One common situation where this occurs (and which almost everyone can relate to) is meeting new people. Often we don't really learn people's names at first because we aren't really concentrating on remembering them. You'll find that if you make a conscious effort to remember such things, you'll do much better. One way to train yourself to be more observant is to look at an unfamiliar photograph for a few seconds and then turn the photograph over and describe or write down as many details as you can about the photograph. Try closing your eyes and picturing the photo in your mind. Use a new photograph each time you try this exercise, and with regular practice you will find you're able to remember more details with even shorter glimpses of the photos.






7. Give yourself time to form a memory. Memories are very fragile in the short-term, and distractions can make you quickly forget something as simple as a phone number. The key to avoid losing memories before you can even form them is to be able to focus on the thing to be remembered for a while without thinking about other things, so when you're trying to remember something, avoid distractions and complicated tasks for a few minutes.
 

 
8. Create vivid, memorable images. You remember information more easily if you can visualize it. If you want to associate a child with a book, try not to visualize the child reading the book that's too simple and forgettable. Instead, come up with something more jarring, something that sticks, like the book chasing the child, or the child eating the book. It's your mind make the images as shocking and emotional as possible to keep the associations strong.







9. Repeat things you need to learn. The more times you hear, see, or think about something, the more surely you'll remember it, right? It's a no-brainer. When you want to remember something, be it your new coworker's name or your best friend's birthday, repeat it, either out loud or silently. Try writing it down; think about it.






10. Group things you need to remember. Random lists of things (a shopping list, for example) can be especially difficult to remember. To make it easier, try categorizing the individual things from the list. If you can remember that, among other things, you wanted to buy four different kinds of vegetables, you'll find it easier to remember all four.
 
 

11. Organize your life. Keep items that you frequently need, such as keys and eyeglasses, in the same place every time. Use an electronic organizer or daily planner to keep track of appointments, due dates for bills, and other tasks. Keep phone numbers and addresses in an address book or enter them into your computer or cell phone. Improved organization can help free up your powers of concentration so that you can remember less routine things. Even if being organized doesn't improve your memory, you'll receive a lot of the same benefits (i.e. you won't have to search for your keys anymore).







12. Try meditation. Research now suggests that people who regularly practice “mindfulness� meditation are able to focus better and may have better memories. Mindfulness (also known as awareness or insight meditation) is the type commonly practiced in Western countries and is easy to learn. Studies at Massachusetts General Hospital show that regular meditation thickens the cerebral cortex in the brain by increasing the blood flow to that region. Some researchers believe this can enhance attention span, focus, and memory.






13. Sleep well. The amount of sleep we get affects the brain's ability to recall recently learned information. Getting a good night's sleep a minimum of seven hours a night may improve your short-term memory and long-term relational memory, according to recent studies conducted at the Harvard Medical School.






14. Build your memorization arsenal. Learn pegs, memory palaces, and the Dominic System. These techniques form the foundation for mnemonic techniques, and will visibly improve your memory.






15. Venture out and learn from your mistakes. Go ahead and take a stab at memorizing the first one hundred digits of pi, or, if you've done that already, the first one thousand. Memorize the monarchs of England through your memory palaces, or your grocery list through visualization. Through diligent effort you will eventually master the art of memorization.

stress

What is Stress?




Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain. In medical parlance, stress is defined as an organism's total response to environmental demands or pressures.






It results from interactions between persons and their environment that are perceived as straining or exceeding their adaptive capacities and threatening their well-being.






When faced with a demanding situation, the brain readies the body for defensive action – fight or flight response. Stress hormones, namely, cortisone and adrenaline are released that raise the blood pressure, elevate glucose levels in the blood and redistribute blood from the digestive tract to the muscles, thereby preparing the body to react to a situation

TREATMENTS OF BREAST CA

Prevention is better than cure, it holds true for breast cancer. However there are methods to cure breast cancer, though great deal of time and money is involved in these treatments. There are four basic types of treatments that are used to cure breast treatments.


Surgery

Most of the cancer patients go through the surgery to remove the cancer cells. Cancer is developed in the lymph nodes, to verify the presence of cancer these cells are taken out and viewed under microscope. Breast conserving surgery is done to remove only the tissues that contain the cancer. There are two basic types of breast conserving surgeries. Lumpectomy, involves removing tumor and small tissues attached with it , therefore conserving the rest of the breast. Partial mastectomy involves removing the part of the breast having the tumor. This depends on the growth of the tumor and it location in the breasts.


However there are surgeries where whole breast is removed to prevent its growth to the rest part of the body. This surgery is termed as whole mastectomy. Even after the surgery patients are often given radiation therapy, hormone therapy or chemotherapy to kill the remaining cancer cells.


Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy makes use of strong x-rays or other radiations to kill the cancer cells. Type of radiation therapy is selected depending on the type and stage of the breast cancer. Normally two kinds of therapies are used, internal therapy and external therapy. In internal therapy, a radioactive substance is brought near the cancer, with the help of wire, catchers and seeds. However in case of external therapy, a machine placed outside the body of the patient is used to direct the radiation towards her breasts.


Chemotherapy


Drugs are used in chemotherapy to stop the growth of the cancer and to kill the cancer cells. This drug is either taken in form of medicine or injected into the blood directly or the muscle. The drugs move in the bloodstream to reach the cancer cells. Types of chemotherapy depend on the stage and type of the cancer. Chemotherapy can be placed in the part of the body directly where the cancer is present.

BREAST CANCER

Breast cancer can occur at any age. However, it is more common in women between the ages of 40 and 50. It is suggested to start being tested in your mid 30's, but if you have a family history of cancer you should start in your early 30's.




Breast cancer doesn't occur in one single part of the breast, it can begin in different areas of the breast including:

• the ducts

• the lobules

• the tissue in between

There are many types of breast cancer, but two are more common in most women. They generally are named after the parts in the breast in which they start occurring. The first is ductal carcinoma and the second is lobular carcinoma. Those two are the most common types, and they appear in the breast’s milk ducts or the milk-producing glands.

In situ breast cancer or a noninvasive breast cancer is a type which the cells have remained within the place of the origin and have no spread around the breast tissue. Ductal carcinoma is a common type of noninvasive breast cancer as it keeps confined within the lining of the milk ducts


Invasive breast cancers are ones which spread outside the membranes which line the lobule, or the ducts, and start to invade the surrounding areas. They travel to other parts in the body which are more commonly known as lymph nodes. Invasive ductal carcinoma consists of nearly 70% of breast cancers. The lining of the milk ducts eventually get thin and break; the cancer spreads through the wall and starts to apply itself to the breast tissue.

The cells may keep near the site of origin, but they still spread through out the body by using a woman’s blood stream. Invasive lobular carcinoma is less common but it invades in a similar way as it starts in the milk producing lobules then starts to break into the surrounding tissue, but they can also have the same type of spreading on different parts of a woman’s body. This type of cancer does not necessarily provide lumps, but thickens an area in general. The most aggressive types of breast cancer is inflammatory as it starts form sheets and nests instead of lumps underneath the soft tissues of the breast. It can easily be treated with chemotherapy and with some surgery later on. If caught early it is manageable and the survival rates are increasing.

The least common type of cancer is the cancer of the nipple, which is called Paget’s disease. It starts to look like a skin rash or rough skin around the nipple, which some people may consider as eczema, but those are just the minor signs of cancer being under the surface of the skin. The best way to treat this type of cancer is mastectomy, since it is around the nipple and milk ducts.


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MUVILA

SI Name:Desmodium gangetcum 

Family – Papilionacea

Introduction



The drug which has been studied in this work is the classical drug called as Saliparni. Saliparni is common classical drug which has been mentioned in various ayurvedic classical texts. It is a commonly available plant with a wide range of uses.


Like with some ayurvedic drugs, there is confusion regarding the identification and nomenclature of the plant. While the vaidyas in the northern part of India consider it as the species Desmodium gangeticum, the vaidyas of the south identifies it as the species Pseudarthria viscida. Since the work has been done in south India the species Pseudarthria viscida has been studied and explained in this work.


 
Rasadi Gunas:
 
Rasa - Madhura, Tikta

Guna- Guru, Snigdha
Veerya - Usna
Vipaka – Madhura


Synonyms



The various synonyms according to various ayurvedic texts are,


1-vidarigandha – The arises as the kanda or the stem has the smell similar to that of vidari(Ipomea digitata)
2 -amsumati –It is named so due to the shape of it’s root which resembles the rays of sun
3-Salaparni – The name orginatd due to its similarity to the leaves to that of leaves of sala tree (shorea robusta)
4-Sthira – It is so called, as its root exists in the land for a long period of time.
5-Dirghapatra – As it has long and narrow leaves
6-Dirghamula – This name arised due to its long roots
7-Dhirghangi – This name originated due to its long limbed branches.
8-Ekamula – It is named so as it has a single root
9-Saliparni – The name originated due to its resemblance of its leaves to the leaves of that of Sali or Paddi
10-Vrihiparni – The name aroused due to the similarity of its leaves to that of Vrihi or a Bear


Distribution and habitat



Saliparni is a common plant found in almost all districts of southern parts of India. It is mainly seen in areas from southwards of the river Godavari. It is very common in Kerala, where it is found in areas of sea level to up to that of 3000feet in the hills. It grows well in the dry gravelling soil under cover and also as undergrowth in damp forest. It is mainly seen as a weed and grows wildly through out.


Habit


It is villous or viscid, pubescent, semi erect, or more often diffusely creeping “Desmodium like” perennial under shrub up to 2 feet high with several slender, mostly prostrate or tailing branches with long internodes often rooting at the nodes, bearing palmately trifoliate leaves almost invariably marked with pale green or greenish white irregular patches. They have elongate filiform racemes of small bright purplish or pink flowers and very sticky or adhering pods about three fourth of an inch long and quarter inch broad.


External morphology


Branches

Branches are many. They are 2-4 feet long or even longer. The branches are covered with soft fine grayish white pubescence.


Leaves


Leaves are pinnately trifoliate, alternate, and stipulate. Stipules are free and hairy. The leaves are lanceolate, subulate or cuspidate. They are 4.5-6mm long deciduous. They have leaflets with filiform stipules below. Lateral leaflets are rhombiform or ovate. They are present one or two inches either way. The terminal one, to be rhomboid ovate. Petioles are densely hairy and half to one inch long.


Inflorescence


They have a fairly long terminal erect hairy raceme often with one or more smaller branches arising from the axils of the uppermost leaves.


Flower


Flowers are many, small, deep purple, red or pink color. They are arranged in distantly placed fascicles of 2 to 4 or comparatively long spreading, filiform pedicels jointed or articulated close beneath the calyx. Bracts are narrow lanceolate subulate calyx about a tenth of an inch long, hairy canpanulate left to middle in 2 obscure lips, 5 toothed- the upper two subconnate forming an upper lip


Corolla is nearly twice as long as the calyx. They are papilionaceous, exerted and with petals nearly equal.


Stamens are diadelphous- nine and one. Anthers are uniform. Ovary is sub sessile and many ovules. Style short subulate or filiform


Fruit


A flat compressed or slightly inflated linear oblong indehiscent one celled legume half to three quarters of an inch long and about one fourth an inch broad. With its chamber continuous with in. the valves of the fruit are membranous transversely, veined and closely covered with many stiff hooked viscid hairs. The sutures are densely ciliate but not usually intended or only slightly indented.


Seed


Seeds are varying from four to six. They are brownish black in color, compressed and some what reniform in structure.


Histology


The transverse section is circular. It shows a central strand of wood, a narrow bark and a thin dark brown strip of cork.


The cork tissue is compressed of 10-15 rows of thick walled rectangular cells. Those towards the periphery often have dark brown contents. A distinct phellogen with a few rows of phelloderm within is made out


The cortex is comparatively narrow and composed of oblong cells. A noteworthy feature of this region is the presence of short tangential rows or series of very large thin walled cells filled with brownish contentswithin the broadened distal ends of the medullary rays. Small irregular groups of sclerenchyma also occur here. The medullary rays are 2-3 and their cells are loaded with stacks. The phloem is of usual type. The xylem or wood is composed of a large portion of wood fibers, a small amount of xylem. Parenchyma and xylem vessels, in addition to the medullary rays. The xylem parenchyma cells contain starch


Useful part
Roots are the commonly used part however the whole plant is also used




Chemical constituents
Root contain yellow resinous matter, oil, alkaline substance and 6% ash

VITEX NEGUNDO

Botanical Name : Vitex Negundo

Family Name : Verbenaceae

GENERAL DISCRIPTION:

The Sanskrit word nirgundi literally means that which protects the body from diseases. It is one of the herbs mentioned in all Samhitas of Ayurveda and has varios synonyms like sinduka, sephali, sitabhiru, vanaka, bhutakesi, anilamanjiri etc. Two varieties of nirgundi described in Nighantus are white flowered sinduvaraka and blue flowered – suvaha (Bhavaprakasa). The great sage Caraka has categorized nirgundi as krmighna anthelmintic and visaghna – anti – toxin.

DISTRIBUTION:
The plant grows all over India, in wastelands, upto 1500 meters elevation. Commonly it is cultivated as a hedge plant.
MORFOLOGY:
A large shrub or rather small tree grows 2-4 meters in height, with quadrangular branches and thin grey bark. The leaves petiolate, smooth, exstipulate, have a typical pungent odor. The flowers are bluish purple in color, lanceolate, in panicles upto 30 cm long. The fruits are ovoid or obovoid, four-seeded drupes, black when ripe.




CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS:
The leaves contain fragrant, volatile oil and resins. The fruits contain resine, astringent organic acids, alkaloids and a pigment. The plant also contains alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, reducing sugars, sterols, resin and tannins. From seeds-n-triacontane, n-hentriacontane, n-pentatriacontane, n-nonacosane, sitosterol, p-hydrobenzoic acid and 5- oxyisophthalic acid isolated. Also, 3, 4- dihydroxybenzoec acid is isolated from seeds. Vanillic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and luteolin are isolated from bark. From essential oil pinene, limonene, camphene, phellandrene, methylheptanone, cumene, linalool, camphor, 4-terpineol, citral, caryophylline oxide, caryophyllene, terpinyl acetate, benzal – dehyde & cinnamaldehyde identified. Nishinaside and regundiside isolated from leaves

PROPERTIES:


Nigundi is pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, pungent in the post digestive effect and has hot potency. It alleviates vata and kapha doshas, but aggravates the pitta dosha. It possesses light and dry attributes. It has antipyretic, anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties and is used in diseases like fever, worms, dermatoses, adenitis and splenic diseases etc




PARTS USED:
Whole Plant






USES:
The leaves are astringent, febrifuge, sedative, tonic and vermifuge. They are useful in dispersing swellings of the joints from acute rheumatism and of the testes from suppressed gonorrhoea. The juice of the leaves is used for removing foetid discharges and worms from ulcers, whilst an oil prepared with the leaf juice is applied to sinuses and scrofulous sores. A decoction of the stems is used in the treatment of burns and scalds.




The dried fruit is vermifuge and is also used in the treatment of angina, colds, coughs, rheumatic difficulties etc. The fresh berries are pounded to a pulp and used in the form of a tincture for the relief of paralysis, pains in the limbs, weakness etc. The root is expectorant, febrifuge and tonic. It is used in the treatment of colds and rheumatic ailments. The plant is said to be a malarial preventative and is also used in the treatment of bacterial dysentery - extracts of the leaves have shown bactericidal and antitumor activity. The leaves are used to repel insects in grain stores. Extracts of the leaves have insecticidal activity. The fresh leaves are burnt with grass as a fumigant against mosquitoes. A decoction of the leaves and the vapours are employed in baths for treatment of febrile, catarrhal and rheumatic affections. The flowers are astringent and are used in fever, diarrhoea and liver complaints.


Classical Ayurvedic Preparations

PUTHARI CHUNDA

SI Name: Solanum indicum
Family: Solanaceae

General discription:
Brhati root forms one of the Laghupancamula meaning literally, minor five roots, of Dasamula kvatha (decoction of ten roots), one of the widely prescribed formulation of Ayurveda. Maharsi Caraka has categorized brhati as kanthya – benefical for the throat, sothahara – relieves oedema , angamarda prasamana – relieves bodyache and hikka nigrahana – anti – hiccup.


Distribution:

Brhati occurs throughout India, often in waste places, on roadsides and in open scrublands.

Morfology:
It is a prickly, much branched shrub, usually spreading or diffused, It grows upto 1-5 metres in height. The young branches are densely covered with minute star – shaped hairs . The prickles are yellow, shining, about 1-5 cm long. The leaves upto 10 cm long, their midribs and other nerves with sharp yellow prickles. The flowers are purple, about 2 cm long, in racemose extra – axillary cymes. The fruits round, 1.5 – 2 cm, dark yellow when ripe. The seeds are smooth, minutely pitted.

Rasadi Gunas:
Rasa : Tikta, Katu, Kashaya
Guna : Lakhu, Rooksha

Virya : Ushna


Chemical constituents:
The fruit and root of brhati contain wax, fatty acids and alkaloids solanin and solanidine.


Disogenin, lanosterol, sitosterol. Solasonnine, solamargine and solasidine have been isolated from the plant. A glycoalkaloid, solasonine on hydrolysis afforded solasodine, sugars, glucose, galactose and rhamnose,


Properties



Brhati is pungent and bitter in taste , pungent in the psot digestive effect and has hot potency . It alleviates kapha and vata dosas. It possesses light , dry and sharp attributes. It is an appetizer, digestant, diuretic and is beneficial to the heart. It alleviates cough and asthma. It is useful in the diseases like fever, cough, skin diseases, distaste and pain.


Uses


The roots and fruits are used for medicinal purpose. The herb is useful both internally as well as externally. Externally, the fresh juice of brhati is applied in alopecia areata with honey. The mixture of powders of brhati fruit, haridra and daruharidra rhizomes is beneficial, topically, in pruritus vulvae to alleviate intense itching. In halitosis (bad breath), the gargle with the decoction of brhati is an effective deodorant. The paste of its seeds is applied on the penis, in erectile failure, with great benefit. The inhalation of its seeds powder like snuff is a good stimulant in samjnanasa. The paste of brhati alleviates pain and itching.


Internally, brhati is used in vast range of diseases. The fruit juice mixed with honey and ghee prepared from cow’s milk effectively curbs vomiting. The plant is beneficial in various digestive ailments like loss of appetite, abdominal pain, distaste, worms and colitis. In respiratory problems like colds, cough, asthma , sinusitis, pleurisy the decoction of its roots works well with the fruit powder of pippali )Piper Iongum). The cough due to kapha and vata are controlled with the decoction of its roots given along with the honey and ghee. Respectively. Being hot and sharp in properties, brhati liquefies the phlegm and relieves the blocked mucous and clears off the respiratory channels. It is the best blood purifier, hence, benevolent in blood disorders. Brhati stimulates and strengthens the heart and ameliorates the oedema. It also works well in dysuria and urinary calculi as it is diuretic in action. In fever, it is of special benefit, as it digests ama for which, its decoction is recommended with sunthi and dhanyaka. The seeds boost uterine contraction, so are used in dysmenorrheal, amenorrhea and in difficult labour. The seeds also bestow an aphrodisiac action. In urinary disorders like dysuria, urinary stones and cystitis, the medicated ghee of its roots brhati mula siddha ghrta, is commonly used. Brhati is useful in various deramatoses.




Classical Ayurvedic Preparations:


Dasamularista
Brhatyadi kvatha
Brhati mula siddha ghrta