Latest news with #Persian
The Hindu
14 hours ago
- General
- The Hindu
Five rescued after fire breaks out in apartment in Hyderabad's Mogulpura
Five residents were rescued after a fire broke out in a flat on the second floor of Aijaz Residency, a G+4 apartment building in Moghalpura, Hyderabad early on Wednesday (July 16, 2025). The building is located just a few metres from the Moghalpura fire station. The fire control room received a distress call at 12.13 a.m., following which two fire tenders and a firefighting robot were rushed to the scene. Fire personnel rescued all five occupants from the building. Those rescued were identified as Syed Abdul Kareem Sajid, 55, who is specially abled, Atiya Begum, 47, Farheen Begum, 27, Syed Imam Jafar, 19, and Mohammed Rizwan Uddin, 38, a paralysis patient. Residents evacuated, cat perishes According to Hyderabad Additional District Fire Officer Bhanu Pratap, while all residents were safely evacuated, a Persian cat perished due to the intense heat. Preliminary findings indicate that the blaze may have originated from an electrical short circuit, though further investigation is under way to confirm the cause.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
From saffron to St John's Wort – scientists reveal the supermarket depression treatments that REALLY work
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) IF you experience persistent low mood, you might expect to be prescribed some antidepressants and a course of talking therapy. However, it's becoming increasingly common to try over-the-counter remedies to combat symptoms of depression. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 But do these treatments really work? Dr Rachael Frost, senior lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, said: "Many of us know someone who struggles with minor or moderate levels of depression, or we may struggle from depressive symptoms ourselves. "Often, we will try many things to help, such as antidepressants, talking therapies, meditation, or exercise. "One common treatment people try is OTC products which are widely available and accessible from supermarkets, pharmacies, health food shops, and online. "Once you start looking into which product might be helpful, the list becomes endless. "This is particularly the case if you read online blogs or look at social media promotion of various products. "How do we know what is evidence-based? What products are effective? Are they safe?" To answer these questions, researchers reviewed studies on 64 different herbal products and dietary supplements available in supermarkets and high street pharmacies. They had been taken by adults aged 18 to 60 for at least one week across 209 clinical trials. Evidence was strongest for St John's Wort and saffron, which "often showed effects similar to prescription antidepressants". Loose Women star opens up about battle with depression saying disorder is 'kicking my a--e and I am so over it' St John's Wort is a plant which increases the activity of brain chemicals such as serotonin and noradrenaline that are thought to play an important part in regulating our mood. Saffron is a spice known for its bright yellow-orange colour and distinct flavour. It's popular in curries, risottos and stews. It was used for decades in traditional Chinese medicine, then pain relief in the 16th to 19th centuries, and now in some cultures for depression. The trials also suggested that probiotics and vitamin D are more likely to reduce depressive symptoms than a placebo treatment. Probiotics are thought to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, while vitamin D helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. Our study has pioneered an exploration into what research is needed to further assess such widely used health care products Dr Rachael Frost Scientists also identified 18 products for which there is "emerging evidence". The most promising were folic acid, lavender, zinc, tryptophan, rhodiola, and lemon balm. "Further research into these could help determine whether they can help people with depression," Dr Frost said. Bitter orange, Persian lavender, and chamomile tea also showed positive effects in two trials each. Some trendy products, such as melatonin, magnesium, and curcumin, showed mixed effects on depression across multiple clinical trials. Results were also mixed for cinnamon, echium, vitamin C, and a combination of vitamin D plus calcium. Prebiotics, which support the good bacteria in our gut, and a supplement called SAMe did not seem to be better than a placebo. The majority of trials looking at omega-3s found it did not affect depression. Supermarket depression treatments: a breakdown Best evidence: St John's Wort (from £9 in Boots) Saffron (from £3 in Sainsbury's) Probiotics (from £7.50 in Tesco) Vitamin D (from £4 in Boots) Emerging evidence: Folic acid (from £2.99 in Superdrug) Lavender (from £6 in Waitrose) Zinc (from £1.90 in Asda) Tryptophan (from £9 in Planet Organic) Rhodiola (from £13.50 in Holland & Barrett) Lemon balm (from £2 in Holland & Barrett) Little evidence: Bitter orange Persian lavender Chamomile Melatonin Magnesium Curcumin Cinnamon Echium Vitamin C A combination of vitamin D plus calcium No evidence: Prebiotics SAMe supplements Omega-3s Few products presented safety issues, whether used alone or alongside antidepressants. But the team stressed that patients should speak to their GP before starting any supplements for mental health problems. Dr Frost said: "It's good news that very few safety concerns arose from any of these products, whether they were taken alone or in combination with antidepressants. "However, a healthcare professional should always be consulted on whether a product might interact with something else you are taking. "A higher standard of safety reporting in trials is essential – only 145 (69 per cent) of the examined studies fully reported any side effects from the products. "Overall, what we have is relatively conclusive evidence for some products. "Our study has pioneered an exploration into what research is needed to further assess such widely used health care products." 2 Experts warned anyone considering supplements for depression to speak to their GP first Credit: Getty Professor Stella Chan, from the University of Reading, who was not involved in the study, added: "It is crucially important for readers to understand that this was a narrative review paper, meaning that it was only a summary of the findings reported from existing research papers. "These papers would inevitably vary in terms of their scientific quality, including some that might report biased or misleading findings due to limitations such as small sample sizes and poor designs. "Meta-analyses (that is, analyses that involve combining all existing data into a single dataset) need to be conducted before conclusive statements can be made about the effectiveness of these products. "Additionally, this review paper excluded studies on individuals with more complicated co-morbid conditions. "Individuals with more complex mental health needs should be particularly vigilant and avoid making personal health decisions based solely upon narrative review papers." Depression... the signs to look for and what to do Depression can manifest in many ways. We all feel a bit low from time to time. But depression is persistent and can make a person feel helpless and unable to see a way through. They may also struggle to about daily life. Mind says these are some common signs of depression that you may experience: How you might feel Down, upset or tearful Restless, agitated or irritable Guilty, worthless and down on yourself Empty and numb Isolated and unable to relate to other people Finding no pleasure in life or things you usually enjoy Angry or frustrated over minor things A sense of unreality No self-confidence or self-esteem Hopeless and despairing Feeling tired all the time How you might act Avoiding social events and activities you usually enjoy Self-harming or suicidal behaviour Difficulty speaking, thinking clearly or making decisions Losing interest in sex Difficulty remembering or concentrating on things Using more tobacco, alcohol or other drugs than usual Difficulty sleeping, or sleeping too much No appetite and losing weight, or eating more than usual and gaining weight Physical aches and pains with no obvious physical cause Moving very slowly, or being restless and agitated If you feel this way, visit your GP who can help you. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support. The following are free to contact and confidential: Samaritans, 116 123, jo@ CALM (the leading movement against suicide in men) 0800 585 858 Papyrus (prevention of young suicide) 0800 068 41 41 Shout (for support of all mental health) text 85258 to start a conversation Mind, provide information about types of mental health problems and where to get help for them. Email info@ or call the infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary). YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline on 0808 802 5544 for parents or carers worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. The website has a chat option too. Rethink Mental Illness, gives advice and information service offers practical advice on a wide range of topics such as The Mental Health Act, social care, welfare benefits, and carers rights. Use its website or call 0300 5000 927 (calls are charged at your local rate). Depression is increasingly common, to the extent that it is sometimes described as an epidemic. In the UK, about 11 per cent of people report mild depressive symptoms, four percent consider them moderate, and three per cent say they are severe. An estimated 8.7million people received antidepressant prescriptions in the UK in 2023/24 - a 2.1 per cent increase on the previous year. It is unclear exactly how many people take OTC products, but the supplement industry as a whole is said to be worth £3.6billion.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
From saffron to St John's Wort – scientists reveal the supermarket depression treatments that REALLY work
IF you experience persistent low mood, you might expect to be prescribed some antidepressants and a course of talking therapy. However, it's becoming increasingly common to try over-the-counter remedies to combat symptoms of depression. Advertisement 2 But do these treatments really work? Dr Rachael Frost, senior lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, said: "Many of us know someone who struggles with minor or moderate levels of depression, or we may struggle from depressive symptoms ourselves. "Often, we will try many things to help, such as antidepressants, talking therapies, meditation, or exercise. "One common treatment people try is OTC products which are widely available and accessible from supermarkets, pharmacies, health food shops, and online. Advertisement READ MORE ON DEPRESSION "Once you start looking into which product might be helpful, the list becomes endless. "This is particularly the case if you read online blogs or look at social media promotion of various products. "How do we know what is evidence-based? What products are effective? Are they safe?" To answer these questions, researchers reviewed studies on 64 different herbal products and dietary supplements available in supermarkets and high street pharmacies. Advertisement Most read in Health They had been taken by adults aged 18 to 60 for at least one week across 209 clinical trials. Evidence was strongest for St John's Wort and saffron, which "often showed effects similar to prescription antidepressants". Loose Women star opens up about battle with depression saying disorder is 'kicking my a--e and I am so over it' St John's Wort is a plant which increases the activity of brain chemicals such as serotonin and noradrenaline that are thought to play an important part in regulating our mood. Saffron is a spice known for its bright yellow-orange colour and distinct flavour. It's popular in curries, risottos and stews. Advertisement It was used for decades in traditional Chinese medicine, then pain relief in the 16th to 19th centuries, and now in some cultures for The trials also suggested that probiotics and vitamin D are more likely to reduce depressive symptoms than a placebo treatment. Our study has pioneered an exploration into what research is needed to further assess such widely used health care products Dr Rachael Frost Scientists also identified 18 products for which there is "emerging evidence". Advertisement The most promising were folic acid, lavender, zinc, tryptophan, rhodiola, and lemon balm. "Further research into these could help determine whether they can help people with depression," Dr Frost said. Bitter orange, Persian lavender, and chamomile tea also showed positive effects in two trials each. Some trendy products, such as melatonin, magnesium, and curcumin, showed mixed effects on depression across multiple clinical trials. Advertisement Results were also mixed for cinnamon, echium, vitamin C, and a combination of vitamin D plus calcium. The majority of trials looking at Supermarket depression treatments: a breakdown Best evidence: St John's Wort (from £9 in Boots) Saffron (from £3 in Sainsbury's) Probiotics (from £7.50 in Tesco) Vitamin D (from £4 in Boots) Emerging evidence: Folic acid (from £2.99 in Superdrug) Lavender (from £6 in Waitrose) Zinc (from £1.90 in Asda) Tryptophan (from £9 in Planet Organic) Rhodiola (from £13.50 in Holland & Barrett) Lemon balm (from £2 in Holland & Barrett) Little evidence: Bitter orange Persian lavender Chamomile Melatonin Magnesium Curcumin Cinnamon Echium Vitamin C A combination of vitamin D plus calcium No evidence: Prebiotics SAMe supplements Omega-3s Few products presented safety issues, whether used alone or alongside antidepressants. Advertisement But the team stressed that patients should speak to their GP before starting any supplements for mental health problems. Dr Frost said: "It's good news that very few safety concerns arose from any of these products, whether they were taken alone or in combination with antidepressants. "However, a healthcare professional should always be consulted on whether a product might interact with something else you are taking. "A higher standard of safety reporting in trials is essential – only 145 (69 per cent) of the examined studies fully reported any side effects from the products. Advertisement "Overall, what we have is relatively conclusive evidence for some products. "Our study has pioneered an exploration into what research is needed to further assess such widely used health care products." 2 Experts warned anyone considering supplements for depression to speak to their GP first Credit: Getty Professor Stella Chan, from the University of Reading, who was not involved in the study, added: "It is crucially important for readers to understand that this was a narrative review paper, meaning that it was only a summary of the findings reported from existing research papers. Advertisement "These papers would inevitably vary in terms of their scientific quality, including some that might report biased or misleading findings due to limitations such as small sample sizes and poor designs. "Meta-analyses (that is, analyses that involve combining all existing data into a single dataset) need to be conducted before conclusive statements can be made about the effectiveness of these products. "Additionally, this review paper excluded studies on individuals with more complicated co-morbid conditions. "Individuals with more complex mental health needs should be particularly vigilant and avoid making personal health decisions based solely upon narrative review papers." Advertisement Depression... the signs to look for and what to do Depression can manifest in many ways. We all feel a bit low from time to time. But depression is persistent and can make a person feel helpless and unable to see a way through. They may also struggle to about daily life. Mind says these are some common signs of depression that you may experience: How you might feel Down, upset or tearful Restless, agitated or irritable Guilty, worthless and down on yourself Empty and numb Isolated and unable to relate to other people Finding no pleasure in life or things you usually enjoy Angry or frustrated over minor things A sense of unreality No self-confidence or self-esteem Hopeless and despairing Feeling tired all the time How you might act Avoiding social events and activities you usually enjoy Self-harming or suicidal behaviour Difficulty speaking, thinking clearly or making decisions Losing interest in sex Difficulty remembering or concentrating on things Using more tobacco, alcohol or other drugs than usual Difficulty sleeping, or sleeping too much No appetite and losing weight, or eating more than usual and gaining weight Physical aches and pains with no obvious physical cause Moving very slowly, or being restless and agitated If you feel this way, visit your GP who can help you. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support. The following are free to contact and confidential: Samaritans, CALM (the leading movement against suicide in men) Papyrus (prevention of young suicide) Shout (for support of all mental health) Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, Depression is increasingly common, to the extent that it is sometimes described as an epidemic. In the UK, about 11 per cent of people report mild depressive symptoms, four percent consider them moderate, and three per cent say they are severe. An estimated 8.7million people received antidepressant prescriptions in the UK in 2023/24 - a 2.1 per cent increase on the previous year. It is unclear exactly how many people take OTC products, but the supplement industry as a whole is said to be worth £3.6billion. Advertisement
Daily News Egypt
2 days ago
- Daily News Egypt
Taj Mahal: Not just India's crown jewel, but humanity's timeless treasure
In the heart of Agra—a city steeped in history and echoing with tales of empires past—stands a monument that transcends time, culture, and even death itself. The Taj Mahal, often hailed as the most beautiful building ever created, is more than just a mausoleum; it is a poem in marble, a testament to eternal love, and a masterpiece that continues to captivate millions from every corner of the globe. For us in Egypt, whose soil breathes the grandeur of ancient civilizations and monumental architecture, the Taj Mahal resonates with a familiar sense of awe—a shared human endeavour to immortalise beauty and devotion. My journey began in the vibrant streets of Delhi, where the rich tapestry of culture and history unfolded before me. From bustling markets to serene gardens, the city thrummed with an energy both exhilarating and overwhelming. After soaking in Delhi's sights and sounds, I travelled to Agra, eager to behold the jewel of Mughal architecture. First Impressions of the Taj Mahal Upon arriving in Agra, I felt a surge of anticipation. Stepping into the sprawling Taj Mahal complex, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and perfect symmetry that define this architectural wonder. The vivid red sandstone of the main gate, the Darwaza-i-Rauza, offered a dramatic prelude, framing the pristine white marble mausoleum that shimmered like a distant mirage. Passing through the archway, the Taj Mahal revealed itself in its full glory—an ethereal vision that took my breath away. The perfectly manicured gardens, divided by reflecting pools that mirror the monument flawlessly, guide the eye toward the central dome, creating an illusion of floating grace. Though photographed countless times, nothing truly prepares you for the profound emotional impact of witnessing it firsthand. The Love Story Behind the Monument At its heart, the Taj Mahal is a deeply human story of love and loss. Commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Banu Begum—known as Mumtaz Mahal—the monument is the embodiment of his grief. Mumtaz died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child, leaving Shah Jahan devastated. Vowing to build a mausoleum so magnificent it would have no equal, he dedicated over two decades, from 1632 to 1653, to bring this vision to life. Mumtaz Mahal was far more than a consort; she was a trusted advisor and confidante. Her death transformed Shah Jahan, driving him to create a memorial of such splendour that her memory would be enshrined forever. Architectural Brilliance The Taj Mahal's architecture is a harmonious synthesis of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles, blending grandeur with delicate artistry. Constructed entirely of translucent white Makrana marble, the monument seems to change hues with the light—from a soft pink at dawn, to a dazzling white at midday, and a golden glow under moonlight. This shifting palette lends it an almost otherworldly aura. Intricate floral motifs and elegant calligraphic inscriptions, meticulously inlaid with semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli and turquoise, transform its surfaces into a jewelled tapestry. Each detail is a miniature masterpiece. The four minarets that stand at each corner lean very slightly outward—a deliberate design choice so that, in the event of an earthquake, they would fall away from the central dome. This subtlety reveals the advanced engineering and foresight of Mughal architects. Symbolism and Spirituality Beyond its architectural brilliance, the Taj Mahal is steeped in symbolism. It is said to represent a vision of Mumtaz Mahal's house in Paradise, reflecting the Mughal tradition of a garden tomb as an earthly echo of the divine. The garden's layout—divided into four equal parts by water channels—mirrors the four rivers of Paradise, embodying the classic charbagh design. As I wandered through the gardens, I was reminded of Egypt's ancient funerary complexes, where monumental construction sought to achieve immortality. The inscriptions on the Taj Mahal speak of the soul's journey and the promise of eternal beauty, echoing themes deeply familiar to my own cultural heritage. The Construction Marvel Building the Taj Mahal was an extraordinary feat, mobilising around 20,000 artisans and craftsmen from India, Persia, and Central Asia. Though Ustad Ahmad Lahori is often credited as the chief architect, the monument was the result of a remarkable collaborative effort. Transporting marble and precious stones over great distances required ingenuity and resilience, often relying on elephants and bullock carts. The sheer scale of the endeavour, combined with artistic mastery, reflects the resources and ambition of the Mughal Empire. Preservation Efforts Today, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to draw millions of visitors each year. Yet its very popularity also threatens its delicate beauty. Pollution from nearby industry poses risks to the marble's luminous sheen. In response, the Indian government has introduced measures including restricted vehicle access and the promotion of electric transport to help protect this irreplaceable monument. A Shared Human Legacy As I departed Agra and continued my journey to Bengaluru, the memory of the Taj Mahal lingered—a timeless embrace of love and artistry. For an Egyptian, used to the imposing pyramids and temples of millennia-old civilisation, the Taj Mahal offered a different yet equally powerful narrative. It reminds us that across continents and centuries, humanity has always strived to build monuments that speak to our deepest emotions, aspirations, and devotion. The Taj Mahal is not merely India's crown jewel; it is a treasure of humanity—an eternal embrace carved in stone, forever inviting us to bear witness to the enduring power of love and beauty.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
This monument has been crowned the ‘World's Most Beautiful in 2025'
In a recent survey conducted by Time Out, India' Taj Mahal has been crowned the 'World's Most Beautiful in 2025'. The prestigious title bagged by Agra's white marble beauty once again proves why the world is crazy after the Taj Mahal, the monument of love. It is a stunning recognition of architectural beauty which has edged out 23 other global marvels on the planet. Let's have a closer look: Taj Mahal: A Monument Built from Love and Sorrow The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632. It is a gorgeous piece of art that celebrates love and sorrow at the same time. The monument was built by the king for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. It took some 22 years and around 20,000 artisans, labourers, and architects to build this masterpiece of love. Architectural wonder The Taj Mahal stands as a living example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It beautifully blends Persian domes, Islamic calligraphy, and Indian pietra dura inlays and the iconic ivory‑white marble dome reflects beauty like no other. Global recognition The Taj Mahal is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983) and one of the Seven Wonders of The World. The new ranking comes at a moment when it is already celebrated across the globe. The monument draws over seven million visitors every year which only shows its global popularity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The monument celebrates diverse architectural beauty from across the globe, including monuments in Asian countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Japan. But the Taj Mahal took away the title—a recognition largely attributed to its heritage value and architectural perfection. As per architectural critiques and romantic travellers, the Taj Mahal's crowning as the most beautiful building is a validation of its ever-beautiful soul—the eternal love story it narrates. Top 24 most beautiful buildings in the list include: The Taj Mahal, Agra, India Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt Fallingwater, USA Ad-Dayr in Petra, Jordan Fondation Louis Vuitton, France Trinity College Library, Ireland Trinity College Library, Ireland Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali Nasir Ol Molk Mosque, Iran The Twist, Norway Sagrada Familia, Spain Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Bangladesh Pantheon, Italy Palmenhaus at Schonbrunn Palace, Austria Bát Tràng Ceramic Community House, Vietnam Museum at Eldridge Street, USA Santuario de Las Lajas, Colombia Museum of Old and New Art, Australia Maggie's Centre, St James's Hospital, UK Baháʼí Temple of South America, Chile Futuna Chapel, New Zealand Komera Leadership Centre, Rwanda National Holocaust Monument, Canada Enryaku-ji, Japan
