In a paper published by the University of North Carolina the authors suggest that the balance of healthy versus pathogenic bacteria in our gut is an important element in the development of colon cancer. This is only the latest in a continual stream of research over the past decade showing the importance of a healthy gut flora. But the benefit doesn't extend to just the bowel. A quick survey on the database of the National Institute of Medicine will quickly show that these probiotic organisms are not only good for the gut, but are equally important in the proper health of the immune and nervous systems. For me this is only the tip of the iceberg in what will eventually be a melting flood of science demonstrating that the key role to our survival as a species is to work with the natural world, rather than oppose it. This means that the notion that we are somehow separate or different from the environment will be seen for the elaborate charade that it is. Suddenly everything that we … [Read more...]
Archives for June 2010
Q&A: What is Triphala?
Triphala is commonly available as a churna, a finely sieved powder that can be mixed with water, ghee (clarified butter) or honey, but can also be encapsulated for sensitive palettes. There are many methods of preparing Triphala however, including medicated oils, decoctions, confections, and natural fermentations (asava/arishta). TAM designates Triphala as a rasayana, a Sanskrit term given to those medicaments that improve general health and prolong life. For this purpose it is traditionally prescribed for up to a year in doses of 1 – 2 grams taken twice daily, and may even be taken throughout one’s life on a semi-regular basis to cleanse the tissues, strengthen digestion, and sharpen the senses. Care must be taken when purchasing Triphala to ensure that the product is fresh, as churnas (powders) are traditionally said to have a shelf life of no more than six months. Classical Uses for Triphala Triphala is revered among the many other rasayanas for its reliable and balanced … [Read more...]
