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Answers to Frequently asked Questions ( Q & A )

1.What is Ayurveda?
The term “Ayurveda” combines the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge). Ayurvedic medicine, as practiced in India, is one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world.

2.What is the origin of Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is said to have its origin in India more than 5000 year ago based on deep understanding between the mind, body and spirit and its co-relation to the nature.

3.What is the general importance of Herbs?
Herbs are nature based (roots, leaves, bark, seeds, fruits and natural minerals) thus safe to use on a long term basis.
Some medicines are easily available in the kitchen or the plants in the home garden.
Ayurveda treatments are more affordable than conventional medicines, particularly where the surgery is avoided.
No side effects.

4.What is the Ayurvedic viewpoint of structure and functions of the Body?
Universe as well as human body are made up of five basic elements collectively called ‘PanchMahabhootas’. These are Aakash (Ether), Vayu (Air), Agni(Fire), Aapa (Water) and Prithvi (Earth). The sixth mandatory component of life is Atma (life spirit) without which life ceases. The human body is made up of Doshas (Bio-humours), Dhatus(Body matrix) and Malas (excretable products).
Vata, Pitta and kapha, known as Tridoshas are physiological entities of the body which are responsible for carrying out all the functions of the body.
Dhatus are the structural entities of the body. These are Rasa (Plasma), Rakta (Blood cells), Mamsa (Muscular tissue), Meda (Fatty tissue), Asthi (Bony tissue), Majja (Bone marrow) and Shukra (Hormonal and other secretions of genital).
Agni (Metabolic fire) is in thirteen different forms and carries out the whole metabolism of the body. The waste products of the body which are excretal are produced in the body as bye-products of metabolism. These are known as malas which include pureesh (faeces), Sweda (sweat) and Mutra (urine). All bio-transformations within the body occur through Srotases (body channels) which are the sites for action of agni.

5.What is the Basic philosophy of Health, Disease and Treatment in Ayurveda?
As per Ayurveda, ‘Health’ is a state of equilibrium of normal functions of doshas, Dhatus, malas and Agni with delighted body, mind and soul. It means that when Dosha-Dhatu-Malas and Agni are constantly in a state of functional equilibrium, then the health is maintained. Otherwise distortion of the equilibrium results into diseases. Erratic lifestyle is believed to be one of the basic causes behind the failure of mechanism of maintaining equilibrium.
Treatment either with or without drugs and application of specific rules of diet, activity and mental status as described, disease wise, brings back the state of equilibrium i.e. health.

6.How is Diagnosis done in Ayurveda?
Diagnostic procedures in Ayurveda are two pronged; one is aimed to establish the state and type of pathology and second to decide the mode of treatment to be applied. The former implies examination of the patient and make different investigations to diagnose the disease entity.
Inspection, palpation, percussion and interrogation are the main modes of physical examination. Pulse reading is an important tool for diagnosis in Ayurveda. Not only through Pulse reading can an Ayurveda Doctor understand the disease but also can predict the onset of disease to take place in future, if unchecked.
The second type of examination is to assess the strength and physical status of the individual so that accordingly the type of management required could be planned. For this examination of Prakriti (Body constitution), Saar (Tissue quality), Samhnan (physique), Satva (Mental strength), Satamya (specific adaptability), Aaharshakti (diet intake capacity), Vyayaam shakti (exercise capacity) and Vaya (age) is done. On the basis of this examination the individual is decided to be having Pravar bal (excellent strength), Madhyam Bal (moderate strength) or Heen Bal (low strength).

7.What are the modes of Ayurvedic Treatment techniques?
Modes of treatment in Ayurveda varies with the individuals
The types of treatment are as follows
Panchakarma (5treatments named vamana [emesis] ,virechana [purgation],nasya[instillation of medicine through nostrils],niroohavasti[decotion enema],anuvasana vasti[oil enema]) plus others.
Yoga
Dietary regiments
Daily regiments
Seasonal regiments
Oral medication

8. Where do the raw material of Ayurveda treatment come from?
All raw materials for Ayuveda treatment and medicine is natural[plants,animals,minerals].

9. What are the differences between Ayurveda and Western Medicine?
The basic fundamental of Ayurveda and western medicine is totally different,
And both medicines have their strength and weakness
Ayurveda medicines are natural, so if used properly will not cause any side effects
Ayuevedic medicine does not have addictive nature
Ayurvedic herbal medicines are safe for long term use.
Where western medicine is used for treating symptoms Ayurveda medicines and treatments focus on treating the root cause.
Western medicine targets the disease, while Ayurveda considers the whole body (physical as well as emotional) and tries to bring the body (doshas) into balance so that the disease disappears.
Thus Ayurveda empowers the body’s healing properties to keep itself healthy and disease free.

10.Is it possible to integrate Ayurveda and Western Medicine?
Yes, in some disease conditions integrating both Ayurveda and western medicines prove to be successful and fruitful.

11. Is Ayurveda recognised by W.H.O.
YES, it is.
Internationally, Ayurveda is getting recognition that it deserves. Ayurveda is recognized in many states in USA.It is very popular in Germany and some other parts of Europe, United Kingdom, Canada and Asia.

12.What are the common Ayurveda Medicines which can be used without consulting the Doctors?
It is always advised to use Ayurvedic medicine after consulting a registered Ayurvedic practioner

13.How safe is it to buy Ayurveda medicine over the counter?
Even though Ayurveda medicines do not have side effects. It is always advised to buy Ayurveda medicines after consulting an Ayurveda doctor.

14.Do Ayurveda medicine have side effects?
When taken in correct dose and proper way Ayuvedic medicines do not have side effects.

15.Where can one access specialised Ayurveda treatment in Kenya?

Ayurvedic services Ltd ,25 First Parklands Avenue, Nairobi, popularly known as Ayurvedakenya.

16. Do you have a branch in other parts of Kenya or East Africa?
No, we do not have a branch in Kenya, Uganda or Tanzania. We are based in Nairobi only.

17.Are there Beauty treatments in Ayurveda?
Yes, our beauty treatments too are nature based. We also have a health and beauty program for the bride and the bridegroom to be taken 3-4 Weeks prior to the wedding.

18.How safe is it for children and Babies?
It is absolutely safe for babies and children. Being nature based, they are safe for all ages and especially for little ones. The use of Ayurveda medicine prevents the recurrence of common cough and cold and builds immunity.

19.Does Ayurveda have any Fertility program?
Yes, Ayurveda can help conception where aspiring mothers are not able to conceive.
Ayurveda also has an advanced system to ensure a safe delivery of a healthy baby.
a.Ayurveda has the expertise to help the would be parents to plan for a physically and emotionally healthy baby with its Bij Sanskar program to improve the Intellectual, Emotional, Social and Spiritual Quotient of the unborn child. Helps to improve Growth parameters of the child to be above average. Born child becomes less cranky, more responsive, Happier, Better sleep and eating patterns, with advanced social behavior and better health in future.
b.The Bij Sanskar program Prevents/ reduces the risk of-
Hereditary diseases, Congenital abnormalities, Growth abnormalities, Cranio- facial abnormalities, Musculoskeletal abnormalities, Cardinal abnormalities, nervous system abnormalities, Mental deficiency etc. in the child. This is unique to Ayurveda as it is much more than the ante-natal care.

20.When should the parents seek Ayurveda advice for this Bij Sanskar program.?
A couple planning to start a family should visit an Ayurveda practitioner, even before the conception.
A couple planning to start a family should contact Ayurvedakenya whereby the treatment will be given to them to balance their Dosha. A simple logic is to have the best seed germinating in a healthy soil.

21.How does Ayurveda treat Erectile dysfunction and low sperm count?
Through its Detox program to repair, rejuvenate and improve the blood circulation plus natural herbs.

22.In summary, Why Ayurveda?
a.Ayurveda is a holistic treatment system which helps in whole body healing which has a history of over 5000 years.
b.As explained by WHO health is “state of complete, physical, mental and social wellbeing, and merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.
The same has been explained by Ayurveda Acharyas(Gurus) 5000 years ago and treatments and medicines are formulated based on the same principle.
c.Ayurveda treatments have no side effects and in auto immune disorders Ayurveda treatments tend to give very good result in comparison to western medicines.
d.Safe to use, all medicines used in Ayurveda are from nature, safer than the use of steroid as these do not cause any side effects
e. In auto immune disorders like psoriasis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis. Ayurveda is able to improve the condition of patient without any steroids or surgery.
Under conventional treatment, such diseases keep on progressing while Ayurveda is able to arrest the progression and regress the disease and thus save further damage to the joints and vital organs and provide pain free living without the side effects of the long term use of the pain killers and steroids.
f. Life style and many hereditary diseases can be kept at bay if panchakarma treatments are done yearly. Ayurveda treatments are highly preventive and prevention is always better than cure.
g. Ayurveda has the capacity to renew and revive Kidneys without dialysis.
h. Ayurveda can provide relief and cure to Deviated Nasal Septum(DNS) eliminating the need for a Surgery.

CENTER NEWS

Health and Beauty for the Bride and Groom

Ayurveda is a safe, natural, gentle, and time-tested scientific approach to detox, repair and rejuvenate the Cells.

Ayurveda system is rooted in a practical understanding of the body intelligence that nature has already built into your body and life.

It is a sustainable and scientific system that is based on your unique nature and needs.

15 days package for health and beauty for the bride and groom
and/or
For healthy young or not so young adults striving for a life full of positive energy

Includes:
1. Daily consultation with our Ayurveda Doctor
2. Daily Pulse reading
3. 7 days internal oleation (The foods that are consumed are not enough to lubricate the internal system. These seven days will provide that lubrication to help you in maintaining good health, in particular the health of the joints)
4. 7 days Ayurveda facial
5. Head to toe skin cleansing and polishing
6. 7 days head to toe body massage
7. Detox of the whole system
8. Diet guidance according to your Ayurveda constitution
9. Yoga guidance to maintain a healthy body and mind
10. Guidance in life style modification suited for your specific constitution
11. Ayurveda cream to apply to keep your facial skin healthy and blemish free

What would this program tell you about yourself?

1. Your ayurvedic genetic code (your doshas)
2. Identify the excess of Ama (digestive toxins)
3. The Dosha or Doshic combination that Ama is disrupting in you(imbalances in your inherent dosha)
What will this program achieve for you during and after the 15 days?
1. A radiant ,shining skin that lasts a long time
2. Detoxification of your body system which means the toxins built up over the years are expelled. These are the toxins that over time start changing your body system and give birth to many ailments that you may face with age.
3. Rejuvenation of the damaged cells through repair and thus prevent aging. Ayurveda is the only system that has the capacity to reverse the aging of the human body and mind.
4. Tighten the skin and muscles giving the face and body its natural contours
5. Shed unhealthy extra fat
6. Reduce weight
7. Calm and relaxed body and mind
8. Calm and stabilized energy and mood
9. Mind that feels alert and clear
10. Better focus and concentration
11. A spirit full of energy and positive thoughts
12. Dispel pre wedding jitters
13. Strengthen you to face the life’s challenges with a positive frame of mind
14. Increased vitality
15. Strengthen your body to enjoy your sex life
16. Internal as well as external cleansing
17. Restore your digestive intelligence
18. Correct Doshic disturbances in the gut
19. Help in healing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
20. Enable you to eat foods without feeing bloated and nauseating
21. Regularize Elimination
22. Fresh mouth and breath

Cost Kes.120, 000.00 per person.

CENTER NEWS

Ayurvedakenya’s new location

After about 10 years of enjoying the beauty and the warmth of nature at 61, Hillview Close, we had to relocate Ayurvedakenya to 25, First Parklands Avenue . It is off Masari Road ( currently known as Pramukh Swami Avenue).  25 ,VEE TEE Place is the brown gate, the first gate on the left  . It is very close to Avenue Hospital, Parklands.

CENTER NEWS

Fibromyalgia (FM)

Fibromyalgia (FM) Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain disorder. Research studies( though not yet conclusive) state that FM patients may have lower levels of a brain neurotransmitter called serotonin, which leads to lowered pain thresholds and increased sensitivity to pain. The lowered pain thresholds in fibromyalgia patients may be caused also by the reduced effectiveness of the body’s natural endorphins and the increased levels of a neurotransmitter called substance P which amplifies pain signals as well.

Recent research suggests that the chronic widespread pain that is the hallmark symptom of FM is neurogenic in origin. Fibromyalgia is associated with a central amplification of pain perception characterized by allodynia (a heightened sensitivity to stimuli that are not normally painful) and hyperalgesia (an increased response to painful stimuli). Neuroimaging studies have also shown that FM is associated with abnormal processing of painful stimuli in the central nervous system and the elevated levels of nerve growth factor in the spinal fluid of fibromyalgia patients. The latter is a small protein important for the growth, maintenance, and survival of certain nerve cells.

Fibromyalgia is a persistent and potentially debilitating disorder that can have a devastating effect on quality of life, impairing the patient’s ability to work and participate in everyday activities, as well as affecting relationships with family, friends, and employers. It imposes heavy economic burdens on society as well as on the patient.

Ayurveda on Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can be classified as mamsa dhatugat dushti (diseases affecting muscles and tendons) and mamsavrut Vāta (diseases of excess Vāta dosha in muscles and tendons).

Additionally, it involves dysfunction in vāta vaha srota, mamsa vaha srota and mamsa dhatvagni. It falls into a subtype of disease known in Ayurveda as vātavyādhi (diseases caused primarily by vitiated Vāta dosha), but always has Paitaja and Kaphaja involvement and variations.

Vātavyādhi is a disease of chronic and unpredictable (anavasthita) nature, involving primarily the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, but in time affecting one or more additional tissues.

It is described in ancient texts as manifesting with a variety of possible and changing symptoms and signs including pain, stiffness, contracture, fatigue, gradual loss of movement, and mental disturbance. This description is remarkably similar to our modern description of fibromyalgia.

Other primary culprit are Ama and low agni. Ama is the result of defective digestive and metabolic mechanisms  initiated by the consumption of diets prepared with some ingredients of opposite qualities (viruddha ahara) consumed in the presence of mandagni (low agni).

Though, according to Ayurveda, ama and Vata dosha are the main pathogenic factors, Kapha and Pitta are also invariably involved in its pathogenesis.

Fibromyalgia is caused due to an initial aggravation of Vāta leading to neurological signs and symptoms. Kapha and Pitta are vitiated to varying extents in different individuals, and thus fibromyalgia is best understood as a tridoshic disease.

Fibromyalgia symptoms can wax and wane, varying in intensity from day to day and by physical location, all features which reflect its Vāta nature. Patients with FM frequently report impairment in multiple areas of function, especially physical function.

Treatment through Ayurveda:

Diet and Lifestyle modification: Nutritious Vata and Pitta pacifying vegetarian diet.

Plenty of rest (about 8 hours sleep at night); increased intake of warm water; milk with clove, cinnamon ,saffron, ginger(warming herbs) .

Avoid stress and worries.

Light exercise, Yoga, Pranayam ,Shavasana, meditation.

Panchkarma therapies:

Virechna ( An Ayurveda detox panchakarma therapy to remove ama , increase agni and to pacify Vata)

Abhyanga, Shirodhara and Basti subject to each individual’s requirement with specific oils and herbs to balance Tridosha.

CENTER NEWS

Deviated Nasal Septum

Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)

The thin wall between the nostrils is made of cartilage and bone, and is called the septum. When this is off-center or crooked, it is called a deviated septum.

A deviated septum may be present at birth, may become crooked during growth, or may be caused by injury to the nose and face.

A deviated septum often does not have any symptoms, but some symptoms include; difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, sinus infections, nosebleeds, nose drips, sleep problems, headaches etc.

Some symptoms of deviated septum may be treated with medication. More severe cases of deviated septum may require surgery to repair the septum;

  • Deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) is  to correct a deformity in the nasal septum.
  •  Turbinectomy or turbinoplasty is the surgical reduction or removal of an enlarged turbinate (nasal tissue) inside the nose.
  • There are risks and complications for all surgeries; those for deviated septum and turbinate surgeries are infrequent, but include the following:
    • nasal obstruction,
    • bleeding,
    • chronic nasal drainage,
    • numbness of facial structures,
    • septal perforation,
    • alteration of sense of smell or taste, and
    • failure to resolve any associated nasal or sinus problem

Ayurveda treats Deviated septum through a Panchkarma therapy of 7 days.It is called Nasya that involves Ayurveda face massage, herbal steam and specific Ayurveda oil or herbs or powder into the nostrils.

–Nasal infusion modifies the function of ADNYA CHAKRA (Nerve plexus at the base of the nose between the eye brows, which is connected with the Master gland i.e. Pituitary gland of the body) which controls all most all hormonal secretions in the body ultimately controls  whole body physiology.

 

 

It kills the receptors, which shows hypersensitivity to dust and other allergens.

-Cleans the blocked sinuses, kills microorganism responsible for sinusitis and reduces the inflammation in the sinuses.

-Surgeries can be avoided for Sinusitis, DNS (Deviated nasal septum) with this simple but very effective therapy.

-Cures Chronic coryza ,Dust allergies, Migraine, Headaches, Insomnia, Stiffness in the head, neck, teeth and jaw ,Facial Paralysis ,Frozen Shoulder , Shoulder pain ,Cervical spondylitis, Hysteria, Nervousness, anxiety, fear, dizziness, Stress, Depression, Tonsillitis, Acne, Hair problems ,Parkinsonism.

Therapy enhances the function of sense organs- Nose, Eyes, Ears ;Improves memory, etc

Over the past 9 years of our existence in Kenya, we have successfully treated many severe cases of Deviated septum, the cases that required Surgery.

 

CASE STUDIES, CENTER NEWS

A testimony on Deviated Nasal Septum(DNS)

A testimony on Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)

I am Mary  Nyokabi, 34 years old, employed in a government office in Nairobi, Kenya.

About six months ago; I started feeling constant congestion and headache in the morning and continuous dripping from the nose during the day. It was very disturbing. I could not focus on my work.

I went to see my doctor and was diagnosed with Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS) I was put on inhalers to give me relief which was really temporary. It was not a cure. Deviation had happened due to an injury on my face.

I started searching for alternatives and found the website; www.ayurvedakenya.com that had cited case history like mine. I contacted them on their Facebook page and booked an appointment to see their Ayurveda doctor. I went to see the Ayurveda doctor on 19th July, 2017. I was advised a 7 day Panchakarma therapy called Nasya. I started the therapy on 20th July and within 3 days, I started feeling much better.

I was given some oral Ayurveda products to continue with for some time and I am amazingly feeling so good. There is no blockage, congestion or nasal dripping and the deviation seems to be gone completely. Doctor has advised me to keep myself warm, take warm water, warm food and avoid cold drinks.

I am so grateful to God that such a treatment is available in Kenya.

Mary N Nyokabi

22nd August, 2017.