Ayurveda, one of the world's oldest healing systems, has many herbs that have been used for centuries to promote a healthy smile. There are ayurvedic herbs that might just be the secret ingredient to improving your dental health.

Ancient Indian wisdom offers a holistic approach to wellness, and that includes taking care of your teeth and gums. If you're curious about natural ways to boost your oral hygiene, then you can try remedies you will have available at home.

Cloves are a popular spice that adds a warm, sweet flavor to many dishes, from baked goods to meats and drinks. But beyond their culinary use, some people also use the dried flower buds, leaves, stems, and oil from clove trees for health purposes, especially in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine.

The unique scent of cloves comes from a chemical called eugenol, which is especially strong in clove oil. This eugenol may have properties that help fight inflammation and bacteria. While adding small amounts of cloves to food is generally safe, there isn't enough scientific proof yet to say they work as medicine.

Why Should You Add Cloves To Your Diet

A single teaspoon of ground cloves is very low in calories, with only about 6. While the amount may be small, it contains carbohydrates, along with minerals like calcium, manganese, magnesium, and potassium, plus a tiny bit of sodium and some Vitamin K. While adding cloves to your diet is a healthier option than processed foods, keep in mind that scientific research on their long-term health benefits is still limited, and more studies are needed to fully understand their potential.

Easing Dental Pain and Preventing Gum Disease

Cloves look promising for healthy teeth and gums. Some studies show a special mouthwash with cloves might reduce bad mouth germs. Also, an older study found clove oil gel could numb gums, which is helpful for dental work. Just be careful not to put pure clove oil directly on your gums, as it can sting.

Lowering Blood Sugar

Early studies suggest a part of cloves called eugenol might help lower blood sugar. But if you have diabetes and use insulin, be very, very careful. Taking clove supplements with your medicine could drop your blood sugar too low, which is dangerous.

Protecting Against Cancer

Some lab tests show that parts of cloves might have cancer-fighting powers. But these tests used huge amounts that are unsafe for people. We need more studies to see if eating a little bit of cloves as part of a healthy diet actually helps protect against cancer.

Relieving Itchy Skin

One study found that clove oil was better at calming itchy skin than some other common remedies. But be careful: putting clove oil directly on your skin can sometimes cause a burning feeling or irritation for some people.

Improving Breathing

Cloves might be a natural way to help with breathing. If you breathe in steam from cloves boiled in water, it can help clear a stuffy nose when you have a cold. Also, some old traditions suggest chewing cloves to ease sore throats and coughs.

Anxiety is not easy to deal with, especially when the topic is such a taboo. As per the latest data which is available on the World Health Organization (WHO) from 2017, it was estimated that almost 38 million Indians suffer form anxiety.

The National Mental Health Survey (NHMS) is the last comprehensive Mental Health Assessment conducted in India in 2015-16. It estimated that around 40 million people in India suffer from anxiety-related disorders.

While SSRI or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors are available to treat anxiety, some may refrain from it and try to look for alternative. But can anxiety ways really help manage anxiety?

Anxiety can also induce insomnia, it could also come often in the form of nightmares, making it worse to cope with. So, is there really any alternative?

According to Dr Savitha HP, professor and head of department Manasaroga, at Shri Dharmasthal Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda and Hospital, "Anxiety and insomnia are the common medical conditions widespread globally leading to decline in physical and mental health affecting quality of life. Ayurveda, ancient Indian system of holistic healing offers time tested remedies for life which is the integration of four pillars namely, Sharira (body), Indriya (senses), Satva (mind), and Atma (soul)."

How Does Ayurveda Explain It?

Anxiety and sleeplessness often stem from an imbalance among the four key pillars of health, triggered by the aggravation of Vata dosha and disturbances in the mind’s Rajas and Tamas gunas. According to Ayurveda, quality sleep—along with a proper diet and balanced lifestyle—is essential for maintaining overall health and longevity. Ayurvedic remedies help calm the overactive nervous system by reducing sympathetic overdrive, balancing neurotransmitter activity, and enhancing parasympathetic response, thereby encouraging relaxation and restful sleep.

What Can Be Done?

Dr Savitha explains, Dinacharya (daily regime) and Ratricharya (night regime) are vital in maintaining body’s natural rhythms. These regimes stabilize the circadian cycle including sleep-wake patten which is directly related to regulation of melatonin and cortisol.

"Practices such as consuming warm and light meals, drinking medicated milk, performing foot massage, practicing mudras and engaging in calming meditation poses reduce stress levels and naturally promote melatonin secretion which supports emotional well-being and facilitates restful sleep."

Another concept is of Ritucharya or seasonal regimens, which align the body routines with seasonal changes and help the body to adapt to seasonal shifts.

Available Therapies

Doctor also explains that Panchakarma therapies like Shirodhara (continuous stream of medicated oil poured over forehead), Abhyanga (oil massage), and Shiro-pichu (application of oil-soaked cotton on head) deeply relax the nervous system through the transdermal activity of selected medicines.

Speaking on the benefits, the doctor say, "Shirodhara is beneficial to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reduce cortisol levels, and enhance dopamine and serotonin activity. This process is helpful in maintaining emotional stability and undisturbed sleep."

Common herbs such as Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Jatamansi, Shaavari, Mandukaparni, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu and Shankhapushpi act as adaptogens and nootropics. These herbs protect neurons, regulate stress hormones thereby reducing anxiety and enhancing higher brain functions like memory, attention and concentration.

Doctor also explains that Satvavajaya Chikitsa, or Ayurvedic psychotherapy, targets the psychological roots of anxiety and insomnia. Through practices such as self-inquiry, emotional regulation, mantra chanting, and counseling, it helps reframe negative thinking, calm the mind, and promote emotional stability. Complementing this is Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa, which uses spiritual practices and faith-based healing to foster inner peace through connection and surrender.

"By healing the nervous system, regulating brain function, and aligning the body (Sharira), mind (Manas), and soul (Atma), it offers a natural and sustainable path to overcoming anxiety and insomnia."

Note: The views and practices mentioned in this article are based on inputs from qualified professionals and practitioners. They are intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice.

Hair oiling is an old practice that involves spreading or massaging natural oils through your hair to boost its shine, moisture, and overall health. This beauty routine comes from Ayurvedic medicine and Indian traditions and has recently become popular in natural hair care. The idea is that it helps strengthen hair and provides essential vitamins.

When you look into it, you'll find different ways to do it. Some suggest putting oil directly on your scalp, while others recommend applying it to the ends of your hair to keep them hydrated and hide split ends.

Should You Oil Your Scalp?

There's a lot of advice about hair oiling, and many tips suggest applying oil directly to your scalp. Some believe this can improve scalp health when done correctly. According to the Cleveland Clinic, 2021 study, for instance, found that coconut oil had a positive effect on the scalp. Another study even suggested it could prevent dandruff.

However, some experts advise against putting oil directly on your scalp. It could potentially increase your risk of seborrheic dermatitis, which is a type of dandruff. Generally, it's best to avoid oiling your scalp.

Benefits of Oiling Your Hair

Just like our skin, our hair needs a good balance of natural oils to stay healthy. Supporters of hair oiling believe its main goal is to hydrate your hair and give it back any vitamins or minerals it might lose from frequent washing.

Adds moisture and shine

Hydration is key to silky hair. Studies show oils can significantly boost hair's moisture. For example, a 2021 study found that coconut oil strengthens hair fibers. This is especially helpful for hair damaged by heat or styling, as oiling can replenish moisture and make it smooth.

Improves the look of split ends

If you can't get to the salon, applying a little natural oil to the ends of your hair can temporarily make split ends look better and add some moisture. Remember, though, this is just a quick fix, not a permanent solution.

May protect from sun damage

The sun's UV rays can also damage your hair, making it dry or frizzy. Research suggests that almond oil might create a protective layer against these rays due to its moisturizing properties.

Types of Oils and How to Use Them

Hair oiling might be most beneficial for people with dry, coarse, or tightly curled hair, as these hair types can really soak up the moisture. However, if you have fine, straight hair, oiling might weigh it down too much. Also, if you're prone to dandruff, it's best to avoid all types of oils on your hair.

When choosing oils, it's generally recommended to use natural oils to avoid added chemicals that could irritate your hair. Some popular natural oils include:

• Argan oil
• Coconut oil
• Sesame oil
• Almond oil

When you apply the oil, remember that a little goes a long way. It's best to apply oil to dry hair, focusing on the ends and spreading it evenly from the middle to the tips. You can leave it in for about 20 minutes to an hour, then wash it out. Try doing this once a week. When trying new hair routines, it's always good to start slowly. Since every person's hair is different, even natural oils can give varied results.

Ayurveda is more than herbs or recipes for health. It is a way of living that teaches you to nurture and grow from within. The ultimate sustainable living, ayurveda promotes habits and routines that ensure your well-being inside and out. One learns different healthy ways of living that help you age slowly, focus on living to the fullest and avoiding illnesses as much as possible.

As you may know, sleep is a pillar for our health. However, it is also something many people skimp on. People stay awake longer than they should, whether it is because they can’t sleep due to some illness, or they wish to spend more time doing things they like whether it is playing games, speaking to their loved ones or simply finding themselves to energetic to sleep. However, that is not healthy, here is what Ayurveda tells us about sleep and how to fix it.

Sleep In Ayurveda

According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, sleep (Nidra) is considered one of the three essential pillars of life in Ayurveda, along with diet (Aahar) and celibacy (Brahmacharya). It's vital for physical and mental health, helping the body repair and heal, and restoring our ability to perform daily tasks.

Ayurveda describes natural sleep as a state where the mind detaches from the senses due to tiredness. For healthy individuals, natural sleep occurs regularly at night. The ideal duration for a healthy adult is 6 to 8 hours daily, with a minimum requirement of 6 hours. Here are some ways you can fix your sleeping habits according to Ayurveda.

Relax Your Mind and Body

To sleep well, your mind and senses need to quiet down and detach from the outside world. This happens naturally when you're tired. Try gentle activities that soothe your mind, like meditation or quiet reading, to help you unwind. When your mind is at ease and not focused on external things, sleep comes more easily.

Stick to a Regular Schedule

Our bodies thrive on routine. Sleep is a natural rhythm, so going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time each day helps your body's internal clock. This consistent schedule trains your body to expect sleep, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed, improving your overall sleep quality.

Eat Foods That Support Sleep

Nourish your body with foods that promote restful sleep. Choose sweet-tasting and slightly oily foods like those cooked with ghee. Including warm milk or comforting meat soups in your evening meals can be beneficial. Sweet options like grapes, sugar, or sugarcane juice products can also help calm your system before bed.

Create a Cozy Sleep Space

Your surroundings play a big role in how well you sleep. Make sure your bed is comfortable and inviting. Pay attention to your seating areas too, as comfort throughout the day can reduce tension. Even soft vehicle seats can contribute to overall relaxation, helping your body feel at ease when it's time to rest.

Nurture Your Body with Care

Give your body the attention it needs to prepare for sleep. Applying warm oil (like sesame oil) to your body, especially your head, can be very calming. Gentle massages or even traditional body trampling techniques help relax muscles and soothe your nervous system, setting the stage for deep and restorative sleep.

Avoid Things That Disrupt Sleep

Staying up too late at night can dry out your body and imbalance your energies, leading to issues like coughs, headaches, and indigestion. It's best to avoid prolonged nighttime awakenings. Similarly, sleeping too much during the day can make you feel heavy and cause other health problems, so generally limit daytime naps.

When Daytime Naps Are Okay

While generally discouraged, napping during the day can be beneficial in specific situations. It's often fine during summer because nights are shorter. Also, if you're very tired from activities like intense studying, exercise, travel, or if you're sick, elderly, or a child, a short daytime nap can help restore your energy.

Be Mindful of What You Do

Certain mental and emotional states can really mess with your sleep. Try to avoid too much intense thinking, worry, anger, or fear, especially before bed. These strong emotions can keep your mind active and prevent it from calming down enough for sleep. Cultivating peace before rest is key.

Steer Clear of Harmful Habits

What you put into your body can significantly impact your sleep. Excessive smoking, for instance, can lead to restlessness and sleeplessness. Being aware of substances that stimulate your system, especially close to bedtime, is crucial for promoting natural and undisturbed sleep, allowing your body to properly rest and rejuvenate.