Lazy Bowel?
It has been awhile since I have written a newsletter which is unusual for me.
This reflects the pace of my life.
In the month of June, I have been away a fair amount and one of those reasons was to attend a workshop on the microbiome and its effect on human health. There are 38 trillion cells making up the human microbiome – many more than cells in the body, so the flora plays a huge part in our overall health. These microorganisms play a big role in determining if we are healthy or sick. Diversity of gut flora is important, and this what we are losing through overuse of antibiotics and not enough fibre in our diet. A convincing and inspiration conference it explored the potential of a disrupted microbiome – that is the gut flora – and how it leads to an increase in intestinal permeability allowing endotoxins (waste products of the more parasitic bacteria) into the blood circulation that creates all sort of havoc. A lot of discussion around probiotics – as quoted by one of the worlds eminent probiotic researchers – Dr Reid…
You’ve got to know what they’re doing. Are probiotics really having an impact? What is the point of putting them in the same container if the strains inhibit one another?”
Certainly after 19 hours of lectures my thoughts on probiotics are that they will be more effective when prescribed by a qualified practioner to create the right effect. I certainly feel more confident in being able to advise in this area.
Modern science validates the Ayurveda Principle that all disease begins in the gut – and the first step is always to correct digestion. We are after all what we “digest, not necessarily what we eat”. *This newsletter focuses on a common gut condition – constipation, which is a main digestive system disorder, resulting in retention of waste materials in the body, affecting our vitality and health.
*Also included is a recipe for a warming & nourishing green soup providing nutrients galore.
*Featured products that can assist with a “lazy” bowel – Triphala and Bowelcare.
Constipation and general treatment
The most common condition I see in the practise is Constipation. It reflects that elimination is not occurring and therefore the ability to be fit, healthy and vital is compromised. Constipation is diagnosed when there are less than 3 bowel motions per week. Other symptoms are hard stools that are difficult to pass, or a sensation of incomplete evacuation. Ideally one should have an easy bowel motion first thing in the morning. The stool should be soft, easy to past, well- formed and float. Often accumulation of toxins is indicated by a thick coating at the back of the tongue. Ayurveda considers constipation as mainly a Vata disorder, particularly when it is a long standing. Causes are typically dietary with too much dry or light food, irregular eating habits, medication, sedentary lifestyle and lack of fluids. Psychological factors such as insomnia, worry, grief and fear may also be a contributor. For any form of constipation that is not severe the first step is to improve digestion with the right use of spices to normalise the agni or digestive fire. Ginger, cumin and fennel are all excellent choices. Herbs such as Triphala which tones and strengthens the colon are preferable to purgatives. Consisting of 3 berries Triphala nourishes the bones and nerves and increases general well-being. It helps to push out water-soluble toxins through the lymphatic system and the kidneys, as well as to remove the accumulated toxins that causes an overgrowth of the bad microorganisms in the GI tract. Triphala is considered a rejuvenative formula, so it not only helps to treat diseases, but it helps to promote health.
Castor oil in ginger tea taken at night is excellent for severe constipation as it is not drying to the colon, bringing a snehana (lubricating action). Yoga postures such as forward bends and abdominal twists that focus on moving the stomach and intestines in all directions to aid the digestion process. This stimulates the flow of blood to all parts of the intestines and generally helps food pass through easier. Ensure that the diet has an adequate intake of oily and bulk foods. These include dairy products, nuts, whole grains, juicy fruits and good quality oils. Don’t forget the fluids!!
Featured Products
Bowelcare facilitates bowel movements helping to remove toxins and waste. It seems to assist in regulation of peristalsis and I have used in treating IBS quite successfully. It contains three well known and loved herbs used regularly in India. Bael leaf (Aegle marmelos), Garden Cress seeds (Lepidum sativum), and psyllium husk (Plantago ovata) combined to create a formula gentle enough for everyday use and effective in balancing the digestive tract. Bowelcare combines well with Triphala.
Triphala is a herbal bowel cleanse and very useful for constipation. It aides in the elimination of intestinal toxins and gas. It improves digestion and helps to regulate metabolism. Good for people of all ages, it can be taken long term. Triphala is considered a rejuvenative formula, so it not only helps to treat diseases, but it helps to promote health. It’s called a rasayana, an herbal formulation that helps to promote health long-term. Ingredients are three berries – Amalaki, Vibhitaki and Haritaki. It is available from the clinic in powder and capsule form.
Detox Healthy Green Soup
▪ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▪ 1/2 zucchini, sliced
▪ 1 small kumera
▪ 1– 1 ½ tsp. cumin
* 1 tsp coriander
▪ 1 tsp. salt
▪ ½ tsp turmeric
▪ 2 cups of chopped greens, such as kale, spinach, swiss chard, mustard greens, packed.
▪ 4 cups of vegetable broth
▪ ½ c. loosely packed cilantro
Directions
Heat a large stock pot over medium-low heat until hot and add the zucchini, sliced kumara, garlic and spices
Add the greens gradually, you will have to add them 1 handful at a time, stirring and letting them cook down to add more. (Add spinach last as it takes the least amount of time to cook down)
Add the cilantro and cover, bringing to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer while covered and cook for about 20 minutes until greens are completely soft.
Remove from the heat. Blend until smooth Adjust the seasonings if necessary, and return to simmer, 15 more minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon and then serve!
Wisdom
We all have choices as we walk through out life. I remember hearing this teaching right at the beginning of my meditation journey (over 30 years ago) and it has always stuck
The Two Wolves
One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, “My son, the battle is between two wolves inside us all.”
“One is Evil – It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.”
“The other is Good – It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.”
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf wins?”
The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”
Namaste Perry
