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Indian Express
2 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
‘My day starts with Ushapan…': Vidya Malavade swears by these 3 habits to kickstart her mornings the traditional Ayurvedic way
When it comes to starting the day right, some routines go beyond just a cup of tea or a few stretches. A well-thought-out morning ritual can set the tone for better digestion, improved mental clarity, and enhanced immunity. In a recent Instagram post, actor Vidya Malavade shared three elements from her morning routine that focus on gut health, oral hygiene, and overall wellness. The first step to her routine involves Ushapan in Malasana, where she sips warm water mixed with ghee. 'Malasana improves hip mobility, strengthens the lower body, it can relieve lower back pain, improve posture, and promote relaxation,' she wrote. She also adds, 'Ghee with warm water in the morning is amazing because ghee contains butyric acid, a fatty acid that aids metabolism and the food breakdown process.' Next on her list is Gandusha, the Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling. 'For healthier teeth and gums… to reduce plaque formations, gingivitis… kills bacteria in the mouth… that cause bad breath,' she explained. Malavade stressed, 'DO NOT SWALLOW THE OIL, spit it out in a waste basket… gargle with salt + turmeric water… spit that out too… then brush and use tongue cleaner (sic).' She concludes her post by discussing the advantages of infusing Ayurvedic herbs into coconut oil, citing ingredients such as Ashwagandha, Moringa, and Shatavari, stating the various benefits of each of the ingredients. Malavade also shares that she practices Jal Neti (nasal irrigation) two to three times a week. Dr Anjana Kalia, ayurvedic doctor and nutrionist at Bloom Clinix, tells 'Drinking warm water with a small amount of ghee on an empty stomach is a traditional Ayurvedic practice believed to support digestion and improve bowel movements. Ghee, being a healthy fat, may lubricate the digestive tract and enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Sitting in malasana (garland pose) while drinking or shortly after may aid digestion by opening the hips and aligning the pelvis, which can help stimulate the abdominal organs. But people having knee pain should avoid sitting in malasana.' A post shared by Vidya S Malavade (@vidyamalavade) However, she adds that there are certain considerations. This practice may not be suitable for everyone, particularly individuals with gallbladder issues, a history of pancreatitis, or those on a low-fat diet due to health concerns. 'Excessive ghee intake can lead to unwanted calorie gain or digestive discomfort in people with sensitive stomachs. Moderation is key, and it's always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating such routines,' notes Dr Kalia. According to Dr Kalia, oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic method involving swishing oil (typically sesame or coconut oil) in the mouth for about 10–20 minutes. 'This practice is generally safe and may support oral health by reducing harmful bacteria, improving gum health, and helping with bad breath,' informs the expert. However, precautions are essential. Oil pulling should always be done on an empty stomach, and the oil should never be swallowed as it may contain toxins and bacteria. People should avoid overdoing it; once daily is sufficient. Also, individuals with jaw issues (like TMJ disorders) should be cautious, as prolonged swishing might strain the muscles. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Moringa, and Shatavari are well known for their internal health benefits when taken orally as part of a balanced Ayurvedic routine. When used externally in a base like coconut oil, Dr Kalia notes, they may offer some localised benefits such as soothing inflammation, nourishing the skin, or improving circulation. For instance, Ashwagandha oil is traditionally used in Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massage) to relax muscles and reduce stress. However, the absorption of active compounds through the skin is generally limited compared to oral intake. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Hindustan Times
21-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Why Soha Ali Khan's morning ritual is all about white pumpkin juice
Actor-turned-author Soha Ali Khan is no stranger to wellness trends, but her latest health ritual is delightfully fuss-free. In a recent Instagram post, she revealed the one morning habit she swears by: a simple, homemade detox juice made from white pumpkin (also known as ash gourd or petha). Quick to make and easy on the gut, it's her go-to for starting the day right. Actor Soha Ali Khan The Prep All you need is ash gourd, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Peel and chop fresh ash gourd, blend it with a little water, and strain the clear juice. Add a dash of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. The result is a cooling, gut-friendly drink that's quick to make and easy on the stomach. Soha shared that she's been drinking this on an empty stomach every morning for the past three months. 'It's detoxifying, cooling, and great for my gut,' she wrote in her caption. She also offered one essential tip: always taste a small piece of the ash gourd before use: 'If it tastes bitter, discard the whole thing. Only fresh, ripe, non-bitter ash gourd from a trusted source should be used. Why it works This simple, three-ingredient drink packs a powerful wellness punch with its cooling, hydrating, and gut-friendly properties. It helps flush out toxins, supports digestion, and is often recommended in Ayurveda for its calming effect on the body. Whether you're looking to beat the heat, reset your gut, or simply start your day on a healthy note, Soha's morning ritual offers a gentle, nourishing boost. Dr Komal Malik, Head Dietetics at Asian Hospital, Faridabad, says, 'It is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants, and dietary fibre, which support digestion, immunity, and detoxification. Its low-calorie, high-fibre profile makes it ideal for weight watchers and diabetics. Regular consumption may also promote clearer skin and a calming effect on stress and anxiety.' Adding to that, Dr Anjana Kalia, Ayurvedic Doctor and Nutritionist at Bloom Clinix, notes, 'It helps regulate body temperature and eases heat-related issues like acidity and skin rashes. Supports liver and stomach cleansing, aiding overall detoxification and also supports kidney health and may reduce the risk of kidney stones. However, moderation is key. Always consume it fresh and unsweetened, and consult a healthcare provider before including it in your routine if you have underlying health conditions.' (Written by: Aarohi Lakhera)
Hindustan Times
26-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Ayurvedic potli therapy: All you need to know about this healing tiny bag
Beauty and wellness influencers have been swearing by a 'brand new' cure-all practice on YouTube and Instagram — potlis. This trend started after celebrity nutritionist Shweta Shah posted a series of DIY potlis for hair growth, PCOS and pain relief, and migraines. Several wellness brands also joined the bandwagon, launching artisanal poultice bags. This time-honoured Ayurvedic practice combines heat, pressure, and the medicinal qualities of herbs. 'The rhythmic motion of the massage and the aroma of the herbs have a calming effect on the nervous system, making it effective for reducing stress and promoting relaxation,' explains Dr Anjana Kalia, Ayurvedic expert and nutritionist at Bloom Clinix. Certified vaidya Chandan Swami shares, 'The two most traditional ingredients in Ayurvedic potli ingredients are crystal salt and carom seeds (ajwain).' These are particularly helpful for pain relief. 'Other commonly used herbs include turmeric, neem, ashwagandha, ginger, and eucalyptus for their specific healing properties,' adds Dr Kalia. Camphor potlis are recommended for travelling at high altitudes with low oxygen. The origin of this therapy can be traced back to around 3000 BCE to 1500 BCE, when it was used to hold medicinal herbs or powders, grains, and sand. These bags were heated and applied to the various parts of the body to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall healing. From royal physicians treating monarchs with herb-filled sachets to grandmothers crafting homemade potlis in kitchens, these healing bundles are a time-honoured tradition in Indian history and households. While the use of medicinal Ayurveda may be controversial from an allopathic perspective, small-scale studies suggest that potli therapy can provide relief. 'This is true for conditions such as osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder, and general muscular tension. However, large-scale, randomised controlled trials are limited,' informs Dr Prashant Sinha, general physician at PSRI Hospital, adding, 'The use of heat in any therapy, including potli, does help, which is why hot compresses are recommended for musculoskeletal pain.' There is value in integrating potli therapy as a supportive or complementary treatment in certain cases. However, it should not replace primary medical treatments. Dr Sinha cautions, 'People with circulatory issues, diabetes-related neuropathy, or open wounds should avoid such therapy unless medically cleared.' Other risk factors include burns or irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin, or allergic reactions from some herbs. Ayurvedic potli therapy, when combined with proper medication and treatment, can provide relief for a litany of ailments. Here are some of the more common ones by Ayurvedic nutritionist Shweta Shah. Rapid hair growth potli: A warm potli made with 1 tsp each of black cumin (kalonji) and fenugreek (methi) seeds, and 10–11 cloves, dry roasted and tied in cloth, is massaged on the scalp for 5–10 mins to boost hair growth, reduce dandruff, and strengthen roots. Acidity relief potli: Dry roast 2 tbsp each of ajwain, saunf, and jeera with 1 tsp dry ginger and optional rock salt, tie in a cloth, and gently massage on the abdomen to relieve acidity, gas, bloating, and support digestion. Migraine relief potli: A mix of 2 tbsp ajwain, 4–5 cloves, 1 tsp dry ginger powder, 2 tbsp rock salt, and tulsi (optional) is lightly roasted and tied into a warm potli to massage the forehead, temples, and sinuses, easing migraines and improving breathing. Sinus relief potli: Roast 2 tbsp ajwain, 2–3 pieces of camphor, 1 tsp dry ginger, and eucalyptus leaves/oil, tie in a cloth potli, and inhale the vapours for quick relief from sinus congestion. PCOS and menstrual pain relief potli: Tie dry ginger, flaxseeds, ashwagandha, fenugreek, and ajwain in a potli, warm it on a dry pan or in oil, and gently press on the lower abdomen for 10–15 minutes to ease cramps, reduce bloating, and support hormone balance and menstrual health. Sleep restoration potli: Place a potli of half a cup of fennel seeds (saunf), 3 black peppercorns (kali mirch), and 2 green cardamoms (elaichi) under your pillow nightly to calm the nerves, reduce stress, and enhance sleep quality. You would be able to feel the difference in 11 days, and refresh the potli after 21 days.
