Nisargopchaar Ashram
Nisargopchaar Ashram
CONTENTS
< Welcome to the Ashram
< Progress at the Ashram 1-6
< Principles of Naturopathy 7-22
Understanding Naturopathy 8-10
Mental Health 11
Balanced Nutri on 12
Importance of Exercise in Daily Life 13
Chromotherapy and Sun Bath 14-15
Water: The Solvent of Life 16
Home Remedies 17-18
Shuddhi Kriya (Cleansing Process) 19-20
Neurotherapy 21
Om Kara 22
< Successful Case Studies 23-72
Trustees
Shri. Hrishikesh A. Mafatlal, Chairman
Dr. Narayan G. Hegde, Managing Trustee
Shri. Girish G. Sohani, Trustee
Shri. Dnynoba T. Kanchan, Trustee
Shri. Shivraj B. Karvande, Secretary
Welcome to the Ashram
We are happy to present the Progress Report of the Nisargopachar Ashram for 2017-18.
The Ashram continues to serve all the sections of the society through naturopathy, yoga,
meditation and Gandhian values. We have also been successful in creating better
awareness about community health, healthy lifestyle and positive thinking to ensure
good health, among rural and tribal families in selected regions. We continue to
introduce new treatments based on scientific research and create greater awareness on
emerging diseases related to modern lifestyle and growing stress. We also encourage
stress prone people to make use of our services at the Ashram, to service their body and
mind, and to remain healthy.
The treatments at the Ashram are aimed at detoxifying the body to facilitate normal
functioning of our precious and invaluable organs, which keeps us fit for healthy living.
This helps most of our immates to return home with improved health and greater
satisfaction. We insist that they include meditation, prayer and bhajan as essential
components of their daily routine. Mahatma Gandhi never missed his daily prayers and
motivated every volunteer and guest to take part in the prayer. Vaishnava Jana to Tene
Kahiye and Raghupati Raghava Rajaram were his favourite Bhajans, which carried the
essential moral values of all the religions. Such prayers remind us to mend our behaviour
and help us to lead a peaceful and contented life. Hence at the Ashram, naturopathy is a
path for adopting a healthy lifestyle and not a treatment to get temporary relief.
We are happy that the Ashram is attracting patients from rural areas and also from
weaker sections of the society, who get equal attention as the other patients, thereby
ensuring equality and social justice, a concern expressed by our Founder, Mahatma
Gandhi. We are very fortunate that our dedicated doctors and staff working in various
sections, are trying their best to serve the inmates, with commitment and passion, which
deserve sincere appreciation. We are grateful to our guests, well-wishers and donors,
who have been very supportive and appreciative of our work, which has been a source of
inspiration for us to serve the community better.
We are happy to present the Annual Progress Report of the Nisargopachar Gram Sudhar
Trust. During the year, 6066 indoor pa ents took admission at the Ashram. Among them,
92.3% were from urban areas, 7.1% from rural areas and 0.6% pa ents were foreign
na onals. Among indoor pa ents, 58.37% were female and 41.63% were male pa ents.
There were 2899 outdoor pa ents and 35.0% were from rural areas.
Management Team
The ac vi es of the Ashram are managed by the Management Team, under the direc on
of the Trustees. The List of Senior Officers is presented below.
Ashram Management Team
Naturopathy
Dr. Abhishek Devikar, Director
Dr. Ameya Devikar, Principal Doctor Naturopath
Dr. Kushan Shah, Senior Naturopath
Dr. Gauri Shah, Senior Physiotherapist
Dr. Samruddhi Vyas, Junior Naturopath
Dr. Vandita Bagul, Junior Naturopath
Dr. Lavanya Upadhyaya, Junior Naturopath
Annual Accounts
A summary of the Income and Expenditure incurred for the year 2017-2018 is presented
below:
Expenditure Amount (Rs.) Income Amount (Rs.)
To Opera ve Expenses 326,66,899 By Opera onal Income 401,33,795
To Expenses in respect of Proper es 6,29,830 By Interest 44,40,226
To Transfer to By Dona ons 26,43,689
i. Ward and Facili es 138,00,000 By Other Income 14,89,939
ii. Community Welfare Fund 15,41,295 By Dividend on Shares 1,764
To Surplus 71,389
Total 487,09,413 Total 487,09,413
<
SOUL
BODY MIND
Earth Space
Water Air
Fire
The importance of a healthy lifestyle has been recognised since me immemorial, but it
has only been during the last 2 decades that people have started realising its influence on
preven on and treatment of various chronic ailments. The core principle of
implemen ng healthy behavioural change is making healthy choice, an easy choice.
Pu ng this mo o into prac ce, requires removal of the barriers that individuals face
while trying to live a healthy lifestyle. It is important to look at the bigger canvas when
helping our pa ents reach op mal health and looking closely at exercise levels and
normal home life. Environmental factors can cause strain and pose challenges for people
trying to develop and maintain good health.
Tradi onally, the ability to achieve total good health has been dependent on the
willingness of the individual to implement change in everyday life. Behavioural design
ul mately helps people to find useful tools and tac cs for making healthy lifestyle
changes. It also helps to determine whether the person is ready for a change, and what
triggers that change. At mes, if one is unable to mo vate one’s pa ents to change, one
may need to enlist the exper se of others in one’s team. One may need to go beyond the
exam room and look to what the community can offer. There may be diet and exercise
tracking apps, free nutri onal and wellness counselling, cooking classes, sports clubs
and even community groups that could help one’s pa ents to make posi ve lifestyle
changes once they go home.
Variables of lifestyle that influence health can be categorised as below:
1. Diet and Body Mass Index (BMI): Diet is the greatest factor in lifestyle and has a
direct and posi ve rela on with health. Poor diet and its consequences like obesity
is the common health problem in urban socie es. Unhealthy lifestyle can be
measured by BMI. Urban lifestyle leads to nutri on problems caused by intake of
fast foods and poor foods and increasing problems like cardiovascular.
2. Exercise: For trea ng general health problems, exercise is included in lifestyle.
Diet
Sleep Study
Application
Exercise of modern
technology
Medication
Sex
abuse
Substance
Recreation
abuse
For individuals to sustain healthy lifestyle changes, one must make healthy choice,
the easy choice. Something as simple as having well-lit and well-maintained stairwells
in office buildings, having weekly walking mee ngs, or including healthy food choices
at lunch me mee ngs can make a difference for someone to implement healthy habits.
= Food sources are cereals, oil, ghee, nuts and oil seeds, sugar
and sugar products.
Body building food = Major nutrients are protein
Physical exercises are required in each and every phase of life. Physical ac vity or
exercise can improve health and reduce the risk of developing several diseases like type 2
diabetes, obesity, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Physical exercise can have
immediate and long term health benefits.
The youth of our society today, eat a lot of junk food and look old before their me. Their
poor health is also a social problem. People without good health cannot live happily and
contribute to the growth of the na on. Therefore, to overcome all these problems, every
individual should exercise. Most importantly, regular ac vity can improve the quality of
life. There are various types of exercises like Gymnas cs, Aerobics, Anaerobic, Free-Hand
exercise, Morning walk, Flexibility, etc. Exercise can help people to lose weight.
For good health: It is impossible to keep good health without proper exercise. Preven on
is be er than cure. The best means of guarding against disease is exercise.
Here are some other benefits of Physical ac vity.
- Strengthens the heart. Helps to maintain desired cholesterol levels.
- Helps to keep arteries and veins clear
- Strengthens the lungs
- Reduces blood sugar levels and helps prevent diabetes
- Controls weight
- Strengthens bones and ssues of the body. Regular exercise promotes bone growth
and increases bone density.
- Regulates blood pressure
- Improves strength and keeps one healthy.
- Alerts brain and memory
- Exercise improves one’s mental fitness and prevents insomnia and depression.
The benefits of regular exercise can be seen very easily. It is very important for a person
to be mentally and physically fit. It is said that, “Healthy mind in a Healthy body.” Exercise
maintains youthfulness and delays the process of aging. <
Water is the solvent of life. Undoubtedly, water is more important than any other single
compound of life.
Func ons of Water
= Water provides the medium for essen al biochemical reac ons occurring in the body.
= Water is the major body cons tuent. Human body contains about 60% water.
= Women and obese persons have rela vely less water, due to higher content of stored
fat in anhydrous form.
Water Intake
Water is supplied to the body by exogenous and endogenous sources.
Exogenous water: Ingested water and beverages, water content of solid foods -
cons tute the exogenous sources of water. Water intake is highly variable, ranging from
0.5 litres to 5 litres, depending on social habits and climate. People living in hot climate,
drink more water.
Endogenous water: The water produced within the body is endogenous water. This
water (300-350 ml/day) is derived from oxida on of food stuffs. It is es mated that 1 gm
of carbohydrate, protein and fat yield 0.6 ml, 0.4 ml and 1.1 ml of water respec vely. On
an average, about 125 ml water is generated for 1000 cal consumed by the body.
The abnormali es associated with water balance are dehydra on and over hydra on.
Dehydra on: Dehydra on is a condi on characterised by water deple on in the body. It
may be due to insufficient intake or excessive water loss or both.
Causes: Diarrhea, Vomi ng, Excessive swea ng, Fluid loss in burns, Kidney diseases
(e.g. renal insufficiency) and Deficiency of ADH (diabetes insipidus)
Over-hydra on: Over-hydra on or water intoxica on is caused by excessive reten on of
water in the body. This may occur due to excessive intake of large volume of salt free
fluids, renal failure or over-produc on of ADH. Over-hydra on is observed a er major
trauma or opera on, lung infec on, etc.
Thus, water plays a vital role in regula on of metabolism in the body, forming a solvent
of life. <
Hatha Yoga has given great importance to shatkarmas (6 processes) or Shuddhi kriya for
purifica on of the body and mind. Without purifica on of the body, one will not be ready
for the prac ce of yoga. Shatkarmas cleanse and ac vate all vital organs of the body
especially the diges ve, respiratory, circulatory and nervous systems. They are
preven ve as well as cura ve in nature. This enhances the capacity to digest, taste, work,
think and feel be er. Only a er this, the prac ce of Asanas and Pranayama become
easier and effec ve.
The six main yogic cleansers are as follows:
i. Ne
ii. Dhou
iii. Nauli
iv. Bas
v. Trataka
vi. Kapalbha
vii. Shankha prakshalan
Shuddhi kriya is one of the most important parts of Bhara ya Yoga Shastra.
Types of Shuddhi kriya:
Ne : These are techniques to cleanse the nasal passage. In Yoga, pranvayu (Breath)
passes through the nasal passage and hence its cleaning has to be done. Various forms of
Ne are Jal Ne , Dugdha Ne , Ghrita Ne and Sutra Ne .
Dhau – The technique of cleansing the stomach and the diges ve tract is known as
Dhau . It consists of four parts - Antar Dhau , Danta Dhau , Hrid Dhau , and Moola
Dhau . A er prac cing this yogic kriya, stomach and diges on are in equilibrium.
Nauli – This cleansing technique is to purify the diges ve organs and the small intes ne,
performed through massage of the abdomen, by circular movement of stomach muscle.
There are 4 different varia ons of Nauli. They are:
1. Madhya Nauli: Movement of muscles in the centre of abdomen.
Introduc on
Neurotherapy is an op onal line of treatment. Pulse is considered as the centre of
diagnosis. Neurotherapy is considered when a gland is not func oning in the body and is
not releasing the desired quan ty of chemical, hormone or energy supply.
The glands are ac vated and the desired quan ty of chemicals are released towards that
part, so that the part starts func oning well and the pa ent becomes healthy.
External medicine is not used. The body is s mulated to func on by itself. Acid and
alkaline environment are balanced. In this line of treatment, the disease is not cured but
the func ons of the glands are ac vated.
Procedure
This treatment is given by feet. The therapist gives treatment by standing on the pa ent
with the help of two wooden chairs and according to the pressure to be given to the
pa ent. There are certain limita ons of this treatment. Heart pa ents, inter vertebral
disc prolapse, osteoporosis, etc. condi ons and expectant mothers who have completed
three months of pregnancy, are not eligible for this treatment.
Important features of Neurotherapy:
= Our brain has 100 billion neurons and the spinal cord has 100 million neurons. The
intes nes have 100 million neurons. 12 main types of chemicals are formed by
neurons of the intes ne. If these chemicals are not formed due to problem in brain
neurons, Parkinson’s disease sets in. Neurotherapy ac vates the nervous system of
the intes nes and cures diseases occurring due to deficiency of chemicals prepared
by the central nervous system.
= Maintenance of acid-based balance is an important factor for keeping good health.
Acid is a substance which when dissolved in water, produces hydrogen ions (H+).
Alkali (base) produces hydroxyl ions (OH), when dissolved in water. Normal pH of
blood is between 7.36 and 7.44. If the diges ve system is working properly, the acid
based balance is maintained. In most cases, the cause of disease is disturbance of
this balance. When this is corrected, the pa ent will become normal. <
Tradi onal Hindu func ons begin with the chan ng of “Om kara”
“Aumkaram Bindu Sayuktam,
Nityam Dhyanyn Yoginaha,
Kamadam Mokshadam Chaiva ,
Omkaraya Namo Namaha”
The sacred syllable Om is the primordial sound from which all other sounds and crea on
emerge. It underlies all phone c crea ons. The u erance of Om, consis ng of the three
le ers A, U, and M, covers the whole process of ar cula on.
Yoga teachings consider the syllable Om to be the force behind all thoughts. Either
chan ng or thinking about Om is anecdotally reported to cause a quiet mental state.
“Omkar controls our mind. Yogis also meditate with Omkar”, says, Patanjali
How to prac ce
Before chan ng A U M, one must sit in a relaxed posi on with eyes closed and mind at
peace. The head, neck and spine must be in a straight posi on. Body should be relaxed. A
deep breath needs to be taken and air inhaled ll it reaches the naval. 'Akar' is
pronounced through naval 'Ukar' from the heart and 'Mkar' from head.
Waves of Om chan ng, affect the brain, nerves system, pituitary gland, thyroid and
parathyroid gland. In simple words, daily chan ng of omkar reduces mental stress.
The prac ce of Om chan ng in a tradi onal way can be used as one of the powerful
means for calming down the mind and enhancing memory. Regular Om chan ng is also
found beneficial in improving the respiratory func on and cardiac func on. <
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on (minutes)
1. Neutral Spinal Bath (with support) Daily 10
2. Neutral Immersion Bath (with support) Daily 10
3. Acupressure Daily 10
4. Neurotherapy Daily 10
5. Exercise therapy Daily 18
6. Mud pack applica on on abdomen Daily 18
Results Achieved: She could walk with support and give up the wheel chair. She could
perform her daily ac vi es and a sense of well-being prevailed. Her confidence level
improved and she was quite independent.
Follow up Advice: She was prescribed a comprehensive programme, inclusive of diet,
exercise and yoga and ps on physical re-educa on to enable her to be independent.
Reported by Dr. Abhishek Devikar
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
(minutes)
1. Steam Bath Daily 8
2. Cold Hip Bath Twice daily 10
3. Cold Abdomen pack Daily 20
4. Neurotherapy Daily 10
5. Massage therapy Daily 60
6. Mud pack to abdomen Daily 18
7. Enema Alternate days; A er 10 days, twice a week 10
8. Hot Foot Bath Daily 20
Results Achieved: Subsequent to the treatment followed for 5 days, the frequency of
hiccups reduced. Earlier, it used to start soon a er ge ng up and now there was a me
th
lag of 2 hours. A er the ninth day, the gap increased to 4 to 5 hours. A er the 13 day, the
th
hiccup came only a er 3 pm. A er the 18 day, the hiccups stopped completely. On
follow up calls on a monthly basis, it was reported that since last 6 months, he did not
have a single incident of hiccup.
Follow up Advice: He was given an exclusive diet programme, advised regular prac ce of
yoga and ps on lifestyle modifica on in order to keep this issue at bay.
Reported by Dr. Abhishek Devikar
Nature Cure Ashram Annual Report 2017-18 I 27
Case 3. Management of Type 2 DM with Neuro-Nephro-Re nopathy
Introduc on: Diabetes is a problem that causes blood glucose (sugar) levels to rise
higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia. Type 2 Diabetes is the most
common form of diabetes. In case of Type 2 Diabetes, the body does not use insulin
properly. This is called insulin resistance. At first, pancreas makes extra insulin to make
up for it. But, over me, it is unable to produce enough insulin to keep the blood glucose
at a normal level. If the blood glucose levels are not controlled on me, it can lead to
Diabe c Peripheral Neuropathy (irrita on of nerves leading to weakness of limbs),
Nephropathy (dysfunc on of kidney) and Re nopathy (damage to the re na).
History: Mr. SB, 62, was suffering from Type 2 DM for last 24 years. He was unable to
follow a healthy lifestyle, due to a busy schedule and work pressure. His fas ng sugar
levels fluctuated between 200-250 mg/dL and the post lunch reading remained between
350-400 mg/dL, leading to diabe c nephropathy. Gradually, the uncontrolled sugar
levels kept damaging the re na and peripheral nerves, severely affec ng his vision and
causing numbness of the feet for the last 6 years. Conven onal treatment for
management of diabetes and other related issues were not encouraging.
Treatment: He was recommended treatment for 21 days at the Ashram which included
alkaline diet, boiled bland diet, raw vegetables, salads, herbal juices and advised to avoid
rice, sweets and potatoes. Naturopathy treatment included neurotherapy, massage,
mud and hydrotherapy along with a customised yoga module.
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty (ml/gm) Days
6 am Soaked fenugreek seeds ½ tsp 21
7 am Kadha + Milk 100+100 21
8 am Carrot juice + Bo le gourd juice 200 21
9 am Neem juice 100 21
10.30 am Soup + Sabzi + Chutney + Ragi ro +
Bu er milk 200 + 200 + 10+ 1 + 100 21
3 pm Kadha + Milk 100 +100 21
4 pm Carrot juice + Bo le gourd juice 200 21
5.30 pm Jowar ro + Soup + sabzi + Chutney +
Bu er milk 1+ 200 + 200 +10 + 100 21
8.30 pm Papaya 200 21
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
(minutes)
1. Steam Bath Daily 8
2. Cold Hip Bath Twice a day 10
3. GH pack Alternate days 20
4. Neurotherapy Daily 10
5. Massage therapy Daily 60
6. Mud pack on abdomen Daily 18
7. Enema Alternate days; A er 10 days, twice a week 10
8. Kidney pack Alternate days 20
9. Acupuncture Daily 10
Results Achieved: Ini ally, he had a lot of difficulty in adjus ng to the Ashram schedule
but from the third day onwards, he started feeling lighter. Following the change in his
th
diet, the sugar levels lowered from the 8 day. A er 5 sessions of acupuncture, the
numbness of feet also improved and the crea nine levels also reduced. At the end of 18
days, his vision also improved significantly.
Follow up Advice: He was given a specific diet programme, advised regular prac ce of
yoga and ps on lifestyle modifica on in order to sustain the results achieved at the
Ashram.
Reported by Dr. Abhishek Devikar
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty Days
(ml/gm)
7 am Kadha + Jaggery 200 + 10 14
8 am Carrot juice 200 14
9 am Pomegranate juice 200 14
10.30 am Soup + Sabzi + Chutney 200 + 200 +10 14
3 pm Kadha + Jaggery 200 +10 14
4 pm Carrot juice 200 14
5.30 pm Jowar Ro + Soup + Sabzi + Chutney 1+ 200 + 200 +10 14
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
(minutes)
1. Massage Daily 60
2. Epsom salt pack on painful joints Daily 20
3. Acupressure Daily 30
4. Infra Red Daily 10
5. Ultra Sound Daily 7
6. Hot foot bath with Epsom salt Daily 10
Results Achieved: There was significant reduc on in pain, s ffness and swelling. She was
able to move around without a wheel chair and carry on with her day-to-day ac vi es.
Introduc on: Bronchi s is an inflamma on of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry
air to lungs. It causes a cough that o en brings up mucus. It can also cause shortness of
breath, wheezing, fever and chest conges on. There are two main types of bronchi s:
acute and chronic. Chronic bronchi s is one type of Chronic Obstruc ve Pulmonary
Disease (COPD). The inflammed bronchial tubes produce a lot of mucus. This leads to
coughing and difficulty in breathing. Breathing polluted air, fumes or dust for a long
period of me also causes it.
History: Ms. SR, was admi ed to the Ashram with a complaint of chronic bronchi s. She
had been suffering from chronic bronchi s since last 5 years and which had become
aggravated in the last 3 months, without any relief from severe cough and conges on in
spite of taking nebuliser and other medica ons. She was unable to get sound sleep due
to con nuous cough and used to feel extremely red and exhausted.
Treatment: She was given naturopathy treatment along with a soothing diet and a lot of
emphasis on yoga, especially pranayamas and breathing exercises. She was asked to
con nue her medica on and nebulisa on thrice a day.
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty Days
7 am Kadha + Jaggery 200 + 10 21
8 am Warm water + Honey 200 + 10 21
9 am Tulsi+ Adulsa juice 10+10 21
10.30 am Jowar ro + Soup + Sabzi + Chutney 1+200+200+10 21
3 pm Kadha+ Jaggery 200+10 21
4 pm Pineapple juice 200 21
5.30 pm Jowar ro + Soup + Sabzi + chutney 1+100+ 100+10 1-7 and 15-21
Soup + Sabzi + chutney 200 + 200+10 8 -14
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
(minutes)
1. Massage Daily 45
2. Steam bath Alternate days 3
3. Asthma bath Alternate days 15
4. Neutral chest pack Daily 20
5. Facial steam Daily 5
6. Hot arm and foot bath Daily 15
Results Achieved: There was significant improvement in cough spells which led to
nebulisa on being reduced to once a day on Day 15 and stopped by the end of her stay.
There was no conges on and her sleep cycle improved. She was feeling fresher and
energe c.
Follow up Advice: She was advised to follow a satvik diet, less of oily food, milk and
milk products, sweets and fruits like banana, guava and custard apple. She was also
advised to prac ce regular yoga, giving more emphasis on pranayamas and breathing
exercises.
Reported by Dr. Ameya Devikar
Erythodermic Psoriasis
Gu ate Psoriasis
Treatments
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on (minutes)
1. Massage Daily 45
2. Cold Hip bath Daily 20
3. Cold abdomen pack Alternate days 20
4. Hot and cold compress on abdomen Alternate days 20
Results Achieved: With a combina on of treatment and diet, the pa ent obtained a lot
of relief from her heart burn and regurgita on situa on. Her stress levels also came
down and she developed a posi ve a tude towards life. She came for a follow up a er 3
months and reported that her symptoms were under control.
Follow up Advice: She was advised to follow a diet comprising of lots of fresh and
seasonal fruits and juices. She was asked to follow a gluten and dairy free diet and reduce
the intake of spicy and junk food.
Reported by Dr. Ameya Devikar
History: Mr. RS, 23, came with a complaint of difficulty in holding the pen and unable to
write due to involuntary movement of the wrist and fingers. Since the last 6 months, he
could not write one page at a stretch because of the involuntary movements. He had
undergone botox treatment which did not help him much.
Treatment: A thorough case history was taken before his treatment was planned. He was
given basic naturopathy treatment along with specific yogas to improve the neuro-
muscular coordina on. He was also asked to prac ce wri ng daily.
Nature Cure Ashram Annual Report 2017-18 I 35
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty (ml) Days
7 am Kadha + Jaggery 200 + 10 21
8 am Carrot juice 200 21
9 am Durva juice / wheat grass juice (alt days) 40 21
10.30 am Jowar Ro + Soup + Sabzi + Chutney 1+ 200 + 200 +10 21
3 pm Kadha + Jaggery 200 +10 21
4 pm Carrot juice 200 21
5.30 pm Jowar Ro + Soup + sabzi + Chutney 1+ 200 + 200 +10 21
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on (min.)
1. Massage Daily 45
2. Steam bath Alternate days 3
3. Full immersion bath Alternate days 10
4. Cold spinal spray Daily 10
5. Acupuncture with scalp needling Daily 15
Results Achieved: On Day 10, the pa ent was able to write half a page without tremor or
movement and by Day 21, he could manage to write an en re page without any tremor.
Follow up Advice: He was advised to con nue yoga and medita on back home and also
advised to follow a healthy diet with less of refined sugar, salt and oil. He was also advised
to come for a follow up treatment programme a er 6 months.
Reported by Dr. Ameya Devikar
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatments Frequency Dura on
(minutes)
1. Massage with Mahanarayan oil Daily 45
2. Steam bath Alternate days 3
3. Half immersion bath with Epsom salt Alternate days 20
4. Local steam Daily 5
5. Epsom salt pack on knees, wrist and ankle Daily 20
6. Arm and foot bath with Epsom salt Daily 20
7. Physiotherapy: IFT; Ultra Sound; Wax Daily 10
8. Acupuncture Daily 30
Results Achieved: There was significant improvement in pain and s ffness which
improved her quality of life. She could move around without much difficulty and could
carry out her day to day ac vi es.
Follow up Advice: She was advised to follow a diet comprising of fresh fruits, salads and
nuts. She was asked to avoid refined flour, sugar, excess salty, fried and fermented foods
and to restrict the use of milk and milk products. She was also advised to prac ce yoga
and other exercises back home regularly.
Result achieved: At the end of 15 days, his pain had reduced (measured 2 on the VAS
scale). The person was able to walk with only a slight feeling of discomfort. He was able to
move his limbs easily without pain.
Follow up advice: At the me of discharge, he was advised to con nue the same exercise
programme at home for further recovery.
Reported by Dr. Gauri Shah
Results achieved: A er 21 days, his condi on improved up to 80%. He was able to walk
faster without support or any external device. His arm movements had improved. He
was able to hold objects easily.
Results Achieved: With the above treatment, her pain and s ffness reduced to a
considerable extent. She was able to walk straight and perform her daily ac vi es. She
was able to sit straight for more me now and was also able to sleep well.
Follow up Advice: At the me of discharge, she was advised to con nue stretching and
strengthening exercises and yoga to maintain the flexibility and strength.
Reported by Dr. Gauri Shah
Introduc on: Osteo arthri s is a type of joint disease that results from breakdown of
joint car lage and underlying bone which causes mild to severe pain in affected joints
and s ffness that restricts the normal movement of the joints. Obesity is a medical
condi on in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have a
nega ve effect on health.
History: Mrs. AS, 40, came to the Ashram with a complaint of knee pain while walking,
climbing stairs, si ng cross legged, etc. Her weight was 89 kg.
Treatments given: Aim of the treatment was to reduce pain and discomfort while
carrying out normal ac vi es and to reduce her weight.
Results achieved: A er 10 days of treatment, the pa ent lost 4 kg weight. She felt fresh
at the me of discharge.
Follow-up advice: Avoid diet high in refined carbohydrates, such as starchy and sugary
food. She was advised the following diet:
1. High-fibre vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, green
and red peppers and beans; len ls, almond, berries
2. An -inflammatory food and spices such as turmeric, spinach, almond and walnut,
olive, fruits such as blueberries and strawberries
3. She was advised to con nue yoga and exercises and to walk 4 km everyday.
Reported by Dr. Kushan Shah
Results achieved: A er 10 days of treatment, his pain had reduced by 80 percent. At the
me of discharge, he had no complaint of radia ng pain in the lower limbs.
Follow-up advice: He was advised to follow the given an -inflammatory diet therapy,
exercises given by the physiotherapist, prac ce yoga and pranayama to reduce muscle
tension and apply hot water bag in the lumber region in case of pain, to relax the muscle
tension.
Reported by Dr. Kushan Shah
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1 Massage Daily 45 min
2 Enema Alternate days
3 Steam bath Daily 5 min
4 Cold Spinal bath Daily 5 min
5 Lapet (Abdomen) Daily 30 min
6 Acupuncture Daily 30 min
7 Neurotherapy (Point therapy) Daily 15 min
Results achieved: A er 10 days of treatment, he was able to sleep at night for more than
6 hours a er an year. With the help of yoga and medita on, he was able to concentrate
on his work and feel fresh.
Follow-up advice:
He was advised to follow the given diet chart and to take plenty of fruits and juices,
con nue acupuncture treatment at a local acupuncture centre, prac ce yoga and
medita on regularly and walk for 45 minutes daily.
Reported by Dr. Kushan Shah
Introduc on: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is a disorder that can lead to
easy or excessive bruising and bleeding. The bleeding results from unusually low levels of
platelets, the cells that help in blood clot forma on. ITP, which is also called Immune
Thrombocytopenia, affects children and adults. Children o en develop ITP a er a viral
infec on and usually recover fully without treatment. In adults, the disorder is o en long
term.
History: Mr. AS, 35, was admi ed to the Ashram for 30 days with a complaint of
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). He was having associated complaint of
severe weakness in body and pain in calf muscles, since 2 years.
Treatments: During his stay, the following treatment was given:
Diet Therapy: Construc ve, Soothing diet comprising of fruits and juices
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Massage Daily 45 min
2. Enema Alternate days
3. Steam bath Alternate days 3 min
4. Immersion bath (Neutral) Alternate days 10 min
5. Lapet ( Abdomen) Daily 30 min
6. Acupuncture (for good sleep) For first 10 days 30 min
Yoga Prac ces
No. Prac ces Details Dura on
1 Asanas U anpadasana Repe on of each asana
awanmuktasana 5 mes with 10 second
Makrasana holding period.
2 Pranayama Anulom-Vilom 30 to 50 repe ons
Brahmari 15 repe ons
3 Medita on 30 min daily
Nature Cure Ashram Annual Report 2017-18 I 52
Results achieved: A er 30 days, he felt fresh and energe c. He was able to walk more
than 30 minutes at a stretch, without experiencing calf muscle pain.
Laboratory Inves ga ons:
No. Parameters On admission On discharge
1 Hb 10 12.5
2 ESR 40 10
3 WBC 3500 6000
4 Platelets 119000 180000
Follow-up advice: He was advised to follow the given diet chart and to avoid milk and
milk products. He was also advised to walk for 45 minutes and to prac ce regular yoga
and medita on.
Reported by Dr. Kushan Shah
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Full Body Massage Daily 45 min
2. Neutral Enema Alternate
3. Mud Pack (abdomen) Daily 15 min
4. Steam Bath Alternate days 5 min
5. Full immersion tub bath with Epsom salt Alternate days 10 min
6. Local steam (thorasic, lumbar knees) Daily 5 min
Results Achieved: A er 14 days, there was considerable reduc on in joint s ffness and
swelling and the mobility of the joints had improved to a considerable extent. The
pa ent did not experience any discomfort in performing her day to day ac vi es.
Follow up Advice: At the end of the stay, the pa ent was given a diet plan with an advice
to exclude sour food from her diet, follow mild joint exercises daily for 20 minutes and to
con nue physiotherapy and acupuncture for 2-3 months.
Reported by Dr. Lavanya Upadhyaya
Introduc on: Scurvy occurs when there is a lack of vitamin C or ascorbic acid. The
deficiency is revealed through symptoms of weakness, anemia, gum injury and skin
problems. Common symptoms of untreated scurvy a er 1-3 months include anemia,
gingivi s and red, so and tender gums that bleed easily. Le untreated, scurvy can
cause a life threatening condi on.
History: Ms. A, 22, was admi ed to the Ashram for 10 days with a complaint of bleeding
gums with ulcers and severe gingivi s since 5 months, with past history of PCOD.
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatments Frequency Dura on
1. Full Body Massage with coconut oil Daily 45 mins
2. Neutral Enema Alternate
3. Mud Pack- abdomen Daily 15 mins
4. Steam Bath Alternate days 10 mins
5. Neutral Hip Bath Alternate days 20 mins
6. Cold Abdominal Pack Daily 20 mins
Results Achieved: At the end of 10 days, the pa ent had complete relief from scurvy.
There were no symptoms of bleeding gums. The oral ulcers and gingivi s were
completely healed and the pa ent did not experience any further sign of gingivi s.
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Neutral enema Alternate days
2. Neem water bath Alternate days 20 min
3. Neutral immersion bath Alternate days 10 min
4. GH pack Alternate days 20 min
5. Rice haldi paste applica on Daily 15 min
on the en re body
6. Arm and foot bath with Epsom salt Daily 15 min
Results Achieved: At the end of 8 days, there was considerable reduc on in the itching
and oozing of pus and bleeding from the lesion. Flaking of skin had also reduced and no
new forma on of bullae was observed.
Follow up Advice: Pa ent was advised to follow a diet devoid of spicy and oily food and
was given a diet plan which included raw salad and fruits. She was also advised to
con nue with gruel and turmeric applica on twice a week.
Reported by Dr. Lavanya Upadhyaya
Introduc on: Vocal Cord Dysfunc on (VCD) is a pathology affec ng the vocal cords. It is
characterised by the abnormal closing of vocal cords when one breathes in or out. It is
also known as Paradoxical Vocal Fold Mo on or Laryngeal Dysfunc on. Vocal Cord
Dysfunc on can be triggered by lung irritants or upper respiratory infec on although the
exact cause is not known. The symptoms of VCD are similar to Asthma. However, unlike
Asthma, VCD is not an immune reac on and does not involve lower airways.
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Massage Daily 45 min
2. Enema Alternate Days
3. Hot Immersion bath with Epsom salt Alternate Days 10-15 min
4. Steam bath Alternate Days 3-5 min
5. Local Steam Daily 3 min
6. Acupuncture + IFT Daily 30 min
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Massage Daily 45 min
2. Enema Alternate Days
3. Hot Immersion bath with Epsom salt Alternate Days 10 min
4. Steam bath Alternate Days 5 min
5. Local Steam Daily 5 min
6. Hot Foot Bath Daily 10 min
10 sessions of acupuncture along with above therapies were given.
Nature Cure Ashram Annual Report 2017-18 I 61
Results Achieved: At the end of 21 days, the pa ent reported relief from s ffness and
pain. He had lost 5 kg and could fold his hands. His uric acid level also came down from
9.5 to 5.6 at the me of discharge.
Follow up Advice:
1. A vegetarian diet with minimum protein.
2. A lot of water intake to reduce uric acid
3. Avoiding carbonated and sugary drinks
4. Avoiding food rich in purine such as len ls, raw vegetables, almonds and walnuts.
Reported by Dr. Vandita Bagul
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatments Frequency Dura on
1. Enema Alternate day All the day
2. Full body mud bath Alternate day 20 min
3. Rice gruel and turmeric applica on Alternate day 20-25 min
4. Hip bath Daily 10-15 min
5. Neem water bath Daily
Results Achieved: Regular follow up was done during the stay. At the end of 18 days,
there was reduc on in burning. Itching and flaking had also reduced. At the end of
fas ng, the skin had become clearer and normal.
Follow up Advice: Pa ent was advised to follow the given diet, Epsom salt / neem water
bath daily, full body mud applica on, rice gruel and turmeric applica on, twice a week.
Reported by Dr. Samruddhi Vyas
Introduc on: Hydrouretheronephrosis is the swelling of the kidney due to urine build
up. This condi on is caused by an obstruc on in normal flow of urine from kidney to the
urinary bladder, resul ng in dila on of the kidney.
History: Mrs. SP, 60, came to the Ashram for 10 days with complaint of
Hydrouretheronephrosis and MSP. There were symptoms like polyurea and generalised
arthralgia and fa gue. She had a history of CA of endometrial. She had undergone
hysterectomy recently.
Treatment: The following treatment was planned.
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty Days
7 am Lemon honey water 200 ml 10
8 am Carrot and bo le gourd juice 200 ml 10
9 am Pomegranate juice 200 ml
10.30 am 1. Normal Diet: Jowar Bhakri, 1-4; 8-10
Vegetable soup 100 ml, Boiled vegetables 100 gm 5-7
2. Raw salad
3 pm Kadha and jaggery 100 ml 10
4 pm Lemon honey water 100 ml 10
5.30 pm 1. Normal Diet: Boiled vegetables 100 gm, 1-10
Vegetable soup 100 ml, Nachni bhakri 1
Yogic Prac ces
No. Prac ces Details Dura on
1. Pranayama Anulom-Vilom pranayama 15 min daily
2. Medita on Breath awareness, OM medita on 10-15 min
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Massage Daily except on abdomen 40 min
2. Steam bath Daily 3 min
3. Kidney pack Alternate day 15 min
4. Local steam Days 1-7 5 min
5. Mud pack on abdomen Daily 10 min
Naturopathy Treatment:
No. Treatment Frequency Dura on
1. Enema Daily Alternate day Days 3-5, Other days
2. Full body mud bath Alternate day 20 min
3. Rice gruel and turmeric applica on Alternate day 20-25 min
4. Hip bath Daily 10-15 min
5. Neem water bath Daily
6. Local steam Daily 5 min
Results Achieved: With the above treatment, there was considerable reduc on in
itching and gu ate flaking. At the end of fas ng, the skin became clear and normal.
At the me of admission
Follow up Advice: Pa ent was advised to follow the diet and take epsom salt or neem
water bath daily and full body mud applica on, rice gruel and turmeric applica on twice
a week.
Reported by Dr. Samruddhi Vyas
Results achieved: Her back pain reduced while her weight reduced by 3 kg in 10 days.
She could walk comfortably, without bending forward and without pain.
Follow up Advice: She was advised to prac ce Asanas, Sukshma Vyayama and Mudras
daily and also follow the given diet.
Reported by Ms. Bhagva Mukhedkar
Introduc on: Mrs. NMK, 65, was admi ed to the Ashram for 26 days with a complaint of
generalised body pain, weight gain, knee pain, high blood pressure and disturbed sleep.
Treatment: She was given treatment and diet as prescribed by the doctor and sent for
special yoga therapy.
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty Days
7 am Kadha + jaggery 100 ml 12 days
8 am Carrot juice 200 ml 25 days
9 am Grape juice 20 ml 20 days
10.30 am Jowar Ro , sabzi, moong 1 + 100 gm +100 gm 23 days
3 pm Kadha + milk + Jaggery 200 ml 25 days
5.30pm Jowar Ro + Sabzi + Chutney + Soup 1 + 100 +10 +100 25 days
Results Achieved:
A er 15 days, her pain reduced by 50% and a er 25 days, by 70%; she could walk
properly; sit and stand easily without support; lost 10 kg weight; Breathing was normal.
Follow up Advice: Con nue yoga prac ces back home along with the diet prescribed.
Reported by Mr. J. J. Wadekar
Introduc on: Mrs. SB, was admi ed to the Ashram with complaints of Diabetes
Mellitus, Hypothyroidism and Hypertension.
Treatment: She was given Naturopathy treatment along with a customised diet during
the stay. She was advised to do therapeu c yoga also.
Diet Chart:
Time Diet Quan ty Days
7 am Kadha 100 ml 20 days
8 am Bo le gourd juice 200 ml 25 days
9 am Neem leaves 40 ml 25 days
10.30 am Nachni Ro , Chutney, Sabzi, 1 + 20 gm + 200 gm +
Vegetable soup, Bu ermilk 100 ml + 100 ml 20 days
3 pm Kadha 100 ml 20 days
5.30 pm Jowar Ro + Sabzi + Chutney + 1+ 200 gm + 20 gm +
Vegetable soup 200 ml 25 days