by Anjelene Immaculate | Jul 24, 2025 | Ayurveda, Wellness & Healing
What is Viruddha Āhāra?
In Ayurveda, Viruddha Āhāra refers to food combinations that contradict each other—whether by nature, potency, timing, dose, or processing. These pairings weaken digestion (Agni), create toxins (Ama), and disturb the Doshas (Vāta, Pitta, Kapha). Over time, they can lead to Sickness, chronic illness and even death.
Is It a Myth or Backed by Science?
Though skeptics may ridicule these ideas on social media, modern research supports them. Studies confirm that incompatible combination, like milk with citrus or banana with milk will impair digestion, alter gut microbiota, promote inflammation, and can increase disease. The ancient Ayurvedic approach, prevailed over centuries, aligns with biochemical and nutritional science, validating its relevance today
Types of Viruddha Āhāra (Incompatible Foods)
- Desha – unsuited for climate
- Kala – untimely combinations
- Agni – too heavy for current digestion
- Matra – improper quantity (honey + ghee equal parts)
- Sanskara – wrong processing (heated honey)
- Veerya – opposite potency (fish + milk)
- Samyoga – incompatible mixture
- Krama – wrong sequence (hot water right after honey, Curd after milk)
Common Combinations Prevalent nowadays to Avoid
Fish & Dairy:
- Fish X Milk obstructs circulation, vitiates blood
- Fish with milk is contraindicated; curd doesn’t share this strict rule, but may cause issues for some
Milk:
- Milk or even Tea, cofee right after or before curd rice – increases Kapha, causes cold, indigestion
- Milk with radish, green leafy veg (e.g., spinach/drumstick leaves), oil cakes, mustard, holy basil, garlic, sour fruits (e.g., lemon, sour mango, pomegranate) – skin issues, weakened Agni (this is for consuming for cooking it is diffrent principle, milk goes with paneer, egg)
Honey & Fats:
- Honey X Ghee in equal quantities, or honey heated and mixed with water/ghee repeatedly – not good combination according to ayurveda toxic buildup and may cause inflammation.
Others:
- Spinach X Sesame seeds – diarrhea
- Radish X Black gram – digestion issues
- Banana X Buttermilk – fermentation, bloating
- Sheep meat X Safflower – Not Ideal
- Wild jackfruit leaves X Blackgram Soup – Toxin
- Germinated grains X Lotus stalk – toxins
- Mushroom (yellow cap) X Mustard oil – digestive upset
- Ghee stored in bronze vessel >10 days – toxic
- Milk X Beer X Corn flour drink – digestion issues
- Equal parts Honey + Meat/Fat/Sesame oil – toxin build-up
- Jaggery X Curd also milk if sour Jaggery (esp. at night) – cough, cold, weight gain
- Cucumber X Sweet Curd (in raita) good with buttermilk → mild cold symptoms
- Milk X Sour fruits, Milk + Salt (e.g., salty biscuits with tea/milk) → curdling, skin troubles
How to Prevent Damage from Viruddha Āhāra (Incompatible Foods)?
- Be Mindful: Know what you’re combining
- Improve Digestion: Use herbs like ginger, cumin, or Ayurvedic spices
- Detox: Periodic cleansing (Panchakarma)
- Gradual Weaning: Don’t stop all habits at once if you’re used to them
- Know Your Body Type (Prakriti): Not all combos affect everyone the same
A Note for Indians in UK
Many of us still follow Indian food routines while living in a completely different climate and culture.
As Ayurveda says: “Desha-Kala-Vihita Ahara” – Your food should suit your location and season.
Being in UK, the weather, food quality, and lifestyle are different. So just like the Roman proverb — “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” – Ayurveda supports adapting food to your local environment.
Conclusion
Viruddha Āhāra is not just an ancient superstition—it’s a science-backed system of food intelligence. If you’re facing indigestion, fatigue, skin issues, or low immunity, review your daily food habits through this Ayurvedic lens.
You don’t need to be extreme – just be aware. Choose combinations that nourish you, and avoid those that harm.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
With Wellness
Imma Antonisamy
by Anjelene Immaculate | Jul 17, 2025 | Wellness & Healing
Hair loss, premature greying, and scalp issues are increasingly common concerns among Indians living in UK. The shift in water quality (especially hard water and hot showers), cold climate, poor vitamin D levels, stressful work-life balance, and change in diet all contribute to these hair problems.
While many turn to hair oils as a solution, choosing the right oil is often confusing, especially when shelves are filled with countless brands and labels. But Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, offers time-tested, herbal remedies through classical hair oils that are suitable for specific conditions and body types (doshas).
Let’s explore how to choose the right Ayurvedic oil, understand your dosha, and learn how to apply oil the right way — because using the wrong oil or using it wrongly can often do more harm than good.
Why Hair Loss and Baldness Are Common in UK
- Hot showers and hard water weaken the hair shaft and roots.
- Lack of sunlight (Vitamin D) affects scalp health and hair strength.
- Dietary deficiencies (like iron, zinc, or B12) contribute to thinning.
- Stress, sinusitis, dandruff, and skin conditions like psoriasis worsen hair health.
So, while applying hair oil helps, it’s also important to address these underlying causes.
Understanding Your Dosha Before Choosing Hair Oil
In Ayurveda, our body constitution is based on three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha has a different impact on hair health:
- Vata (dry, thin, brittle hair) – prone to frizz, dandruff, early hair fall
- Pitta (heat, inflammation) – causes premature greying, scalp burning, thinning
- Kapha (oily, heavy scalp) – leads to greasy scalp, blocked follicles, hair fall
Best Ayurvedic Hair Oils for Specific Hair Problems
Hair Loss and Baldness (Alopecia)
- Neelibhringadi Tailam – Classic oil made with Indigo (Neeli), Bhringraj, and Amla. Strengthens roots, stops hair fall, and darkens hair naturally.
- Prapaundrikadi Tailam – hair loss and heat over head.
- Bhringamalakadi Thailam – regenerating hair growth, prevents grey hair.
- Kayyunyadi Tailam – strengthening hair roots and preventing baldness.
- Malthyadi Tailam – Especially effective for Alopecia, bald patches and stubborn scalp dryness.
Premature Greying of Hair
- Triphaladi Tailam – Made with Triphala, this oil is cooling and rejuvenating for scalp. Helps reduce greying due to pitta imbalance.
- Neelibhringadi Tailam – Doubles up as an anti-greying and anti-hair fall oil.
- Nimba thailam – Although not good in smell effective in grey hair.
Dandruff, Itchy Scalp, and Flakes
- Doorvadi Keram – Coconut oil infused with Doorva grass(Arugampul). Great for dry scalp and dandruff.
- Kayyunyadi Tailam – Soothes inflamed, flaky scalp.
- Eladi Tailam – Helpful in dermatitis, allergic rashes, and chronic scalp issues.
Scalp Psoriasis or Chronic Skin Conditions
- Ayapalakera Tailam – A classic oil used in skin disorders like psoriasis, eczema.
- Eladi Tailam – For dermatitis, skin allergies, and itchiness.
Sinusitis, Headache & Migraine Relief
- Suku Tailam – Soothes head, neck and body aches due to vata and kapha.
- Asana Bilwadi Tailam – Ideal for sinus congestion, tinnitus, and tension headaches.
- Balahatadi Tailam – Beneficial for dizziness, sleeplessness, migraine, and tiredness.
Memory, Sleep & Mental Clarity
- Brahmi Tailam – Calms the nervous system, improves memory, reduces stress-induced hair loss.
- Ksheerabala Tailam – Good for calming pitta and vata – promotes better sleep and calmness.
How to Apply Hair Oil Properly
Best Practice for Oil Application:
- Warm the oil slightly before use.
- Apply with fingertips and massage it well.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes before shower.
- Shampoo gently with lukewarm water – avoid hot water.
Avoid These Mistakes:
- Don’t leave oil overnight.
- Avoid leaving oil daily on scalp – this can clog pores and attract dust.
- Never apply oil on wet scalp – can lead to cold, sinus issues, and even hair breakage.
In cold UK weather, oiling before bath helps restore scalp moisture and keeps hair nourished without greasiness.
When to Use Hair Oil & How Often?
- Twice a week oiling is ideal for most people.
- For dandruff or scalp psoriasis – consult an Ayurvedic expert for correct frequency and combination.
- Avoid oiling during acute cold, fever or sinusitis unless it’s a specific sinus-clearing oil like Asana Bilwadi Tailam.
Can’t Find These Oils in UK? Try These Herbal Alternatives
If you’re unable to source these classical oils easily, you can use base oils available locally and infuse herbs or essential oils at home.
- Coconut Oil – Best base oil for all doshas, especially pitta.
- Castor Oil – Thick and nourishing, great for hair regrowth and dandruff.
- Almond Oil – Light and protein-rich, softens dry hair.
- Argan Oil – Non-sticky, bhjmyjhest for frizz and dry weather in the UK.
- Olive Oil – Penetrates scalp well and softens hair.
Make Your Own Herbal Hair Oil at Home
Use base oils like coconut or almond oil, and add:
- Dried curry leaves (for greying)
- Fenugreek seeds (for dandruff)
- Amla or Brahmi powder (for hair strength and memory)
- Onion, Tulsi and neem leaves (for itchy scalp and dandruff)
Warm gently, cool, strain, and use as your homemade herbal hair tonic
Where to buy hair oils for hair loss? Available in stores like Holland & Barrett, Boots, and online health shops.
Precautions
Some oils must not be applied on a wet scalp or during cold seasons. Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician before using oils for chronic conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hair oil is not just about brand or fragrance. It’s about understanding your body, your environment, and your condition. Ayurveda teaches us that the same oil will not suit everyone.
Before rushing to treat hair fall, it’s wise to check for iron or vitamin deficiencies, hormonal issues, dandruff, or poor sleep, as these are often the real culprits behind hair loss.
But when used right, Ayurvedic oils can work as powerful allies — healing, nourishing, and restoring your hair naturally.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
With Wellness
Imma Antonisamy
by Anjelene Immaculate | Jul 10, 2025 | Ayurveda, Wellness & Healing
Ayurvedic classics refers buttermilk (tākra) to Amṛta, the divine nectar that grants immortality to the gods—suggesting it offers similar rejuvenating effects for humans. Revered as a sacred elixir, it supports longevity, strength, and immunity.
Buttermilk’s Therapeutic Power: More Than Just Yogurt
Buttermilk, or Takra, is a revered Ayurvedic drink known for balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas when prepared properly. It’s light and easily digestible, making it effective in treating digestive disorders, fatty liver, ascites (characterised by a visibly large belly), piles, urinary infections, especially among Indian women and children and low appetite. It helps counter nutritional deficiencies and supports gut health and hydration, particularly for those adapting to UK lifestyles.
How to Make Buttermilk at Home
- Start with live-culture yogurt or Full fat yogurt (available from Goldenacre Minimarket or your local supermarket).
- Churn thick yogurt with water or milk until smooth, For standard buttermilk, mix 400ml curd + 100ml water.
- Churn or shake using ladle until smooth and frothy.
- Adjust texture depending on desired type.
- Optionally, stir in spices—fresh ginger, roasted cumin, or coriander—for enhanced effects.
Types & Ayurvedic Indications of Buttermilk (Tākra)
1. Ghola (no water) – luxurious, creamy; ideal for calming Vāta and Pitta, nourishing weak individuals.
2. Mathita (full-fat, no water) – rich and grounding; helps strengthen digestion in those with low appetite.
3. Udasvita (¼ water) – moderately light; supports digestion and mild detox in Kapha imbalance.
4. Tākra (½ water) – classic watery buttermilk; the most digestible for general health, appetite stimulation, and cold-season use.
Combine with Herbs for Specific Conditions
- Ascites / Swelling: Add fenugreek water or bitter gourd juice.
- Piles / Hemorrhoids: Use buttermilk with a dash of asafoetida and rock salt.
- Urinary Tract Infections: Incorporate jaggery for soothing effects.
- Anaemia / Low Appetite: Mix buttermilk with jaggery and dried grapes to boost nutrition and taste.
- Skin / Pitta Disorders: Blend with Triphala to aid detox and soothe the gut-skin axis.
Preparation & Usage Guidelines
- Use buttermilk daily for 1–30 days: start with small doses, gradually increase, then taper off.
- Best taken in winter, when its warming nature soothes Vāta–Kapha.
- Avoid during summer (Ayurveda doesn’t accept having buttermilk in summer). Also if you’re weak, dizzy, overheated, bleeding disorders, lactose intolerant or in Pitta flare.
- Consult your Ayurvedic physician before using for therapeutic purposes—especially for long-term use, chronic conditions, or skin disorders.
Buttermilk (Tākra) Benefits
- Aids digestion and strengthens digestive fire.
- Reduces swelling (ascites), hemorrhoids, toxins, and indigestion
- Helps kidney and urinary health, eases UTI symptoms; addresses anaemia and lack of appetite .
- Packed with probiotics, lactic acid, B-vitamins, calcium—beneficial for gut, immunity, and cholesterol .
- External Takradhara therapy shows strong results in calming stress and improving psoriasis—reducing cortisol and softening plaques
Recent Research on Buttermilk
- Ascites & Fatty Liver: Ayurvedic protocols recommend buttermilk over plain water in ascites treatment to manage fluid balance and support liver function
- Scalp Psoriasis (Takradhara): A 2020 clinical study using medicated buttermilk in Takradhara showed significant reduction in scales and stress in scalp psoriasis patients.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: A 2021 review confirmed tākra acts as a natural probiotic, improving gut flora and alleviating IBS and diarrhoea .
- Neuro–Gut Axis: A 2024 study found whey and buttermilk formulas reduce gut-driven neuroinflammation in colitis models ResearchGate+2pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+2Wisdom Library+2.
- Takradhara in Psychosomatic & Skin Disorders: A 2018 review reported apparent benefits in psoriasis, hypertension, insomnia, and stress via buttermilk head-pouring therapy.
Buttermilk is an Ayurvedic superfood: nutritious, probiotic-rich, easy to make, and ideal for strengthening digestion, reducing swelling, aiding urinary and skin health, and balancing doshas.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
by Anjelene Immaculate | Jul 3, 2025 | Ayurveda, Wellness & Healing
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, medically termed Adhesive Capsulitis, is a painful condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and inflamed, significantly restricting movement. The term “frozen” is used because the joint appears to be stuck or frozen in place, limiting both active and passive range of motion. This condition can last for months or even years and progresses gradually.
Why Does Frozen Shoulder Happen?
In modern pathology, frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens due to inflammation, leading to the formation of scar tissue (adhesions). This restricts the joint’s movement and causes chronic pain.
- Injury or Surgery: Immobilisation after fractures or surgeries can lead to stiffness.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk; the exact reason remains unclear.
- Thyroid Disorders, Parkinson’s Disease, Cardiac conditions
- Stroke or prolonged non-use of the arm
- Idiopathic: No clear underlying cause in many cases
Symptoms and Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically develops in stages:
- Pre-Freezing / Prodromal Stage (1–3 months)
- Mild discomfort and stiffness
- Pain at night or after specific movements
- Freezing Stage (6 weeks – 9 months)
- Sharp, increasing pain
- Progressive stiffness and reduced mobility
- Frozen Stage (4 – 12 months)
- Pain diminishes
- Joint becomes significantly stiff and difficult to move
- Thawing Stage (5 months – 2 years)
- Gradual return of mobility
- Shoulder regains strength and function
Ayurvedic View: Avabahuka (Frozen Shoulder)
In Ayurveda, frozen shoulder is referred to as Avabahuka, primarily caused by Vata dosha aggravation due to:
Causative Factors (Nidana)
- Excessive cold exposure
- Irregular sleep and eating habits
- Overexertion or injury
- Poor digestion and Vata-vitiating foods
Why It Is Increasing Today?
- Prolonged Screen Time: Tech neck, poor posture, mobile usage
- Binge Watching: Continuous immobility while watching reels or shows
- Cold & Damp Weather : Aggravates Vata dosha
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Limited physical activity and bad ergonomics
- Young Population Affected: More young adults and children face early onset due to digital habits
Ayurvedic Line of Treatment (As per Samhitas)
- Snehana (Oleation)
- Swedana (Fomentation)
- Abhyanga (Medicated Massage)
- Nasya (Nasal Therapy)
- Basti (Medicated Enema) for systemic Vata correction
Ayurvedic Medicines (To be taken under supervision)
- Guggulu Formulations
- Rasnasaptakam Kashayam
- Ashwagandha, Shallaki, Eranda Sneha
- Dashamoola formulations
Dosages and medicines should be prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician as per individual constitution and condition.
Home Remedies and Self-Care
- Turmeric Water: Anti-inflammatory properties
- Garlic Milk (Lashuna Ksheerapaka): Strengthens joints
- Ginger Tea or Water: Improves blood circulation
- Ashwagandha / Clove Water: Helps reduce Vata
- Nirgundi Leaf Juice (Swarasa)
External Therapies
- Mahanarayana Thailam / Karpooradi Thailam / Prasasrinyadhi Thailam massage
- Hot Herbal Packs: Turmeric & ginger paste, or Kottamchukkadi choornam pack externally mixed with egg or water.
- Heat Therapy: After applying oil use wheat husk bags or ready-made microwaveable pads available in UK
Ayurvedic Panchakarma Centre
Most Effective management and significant results you can get if you take proper therapeutic massage from Panchakarma centre
- Abhyanga
- Patrapinda/Kizhi Sweda (leaf bolus with garlic, rice, wheat husk)
- Pizhichil and Navarakizhi therapies
Yoga and Physio Management
Physiotherapy and mild yoga are highly effective.
Physiotherapy Exercises:
Simple Yoga Poses (under guidance)
- Salabhasana (Locust Pose): Strengthens upper back and scapula
- Makarasana (Crocodile Pose): Relaxes spine and shoulders
- Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): Opens shoulder joints
- Virabhadrasana II (Warrior Pose): Enhances strength
- Ardha Baddha Hastasana: Improves shoulder flexibility
- Surya Namaskara: General flexibility and strength
Diet & Lifestyle
Recommended Foods (Vata-pacifying)
- Whole wheat, Urad dal, Goat milk, Cow’s ghee
- Fruits: Grapes, Pomegranate, Mango, Banana, Apple
- Healthy vegetables, warm meals
- Protein diet
- Warm water and herbal teas regularly
Lifestyle Tips
- Avoid cold food and drinks
- Take regular screen breaks
- Maintain proper posture during work and sleep
- Include stretching, mild walking
- Prioritise good sleep and stress reduction
Precautions
- Always get the condition diagnosed by a doctor
- Take medications under guidance of qualified Ayurvedic physician
- Yoga and exercise should be performed with expert supervision
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder is a debilitating yet manageable condition when diagnosed early and treated holistically. Ayurveda offers an integrated solution through internal medicines, external therapies, and lifestyle correction, complemented by yoga and physiotherapy. Addressing it early with the right approach restores strength, motion, and quality of life.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
by Anjelene Immaculate | Jun 26, 2025 | Ayurveda
Introduction: The Rise of Ashwagandha in the Modern World
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most powerful and revered herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, with a history of over 3,000 years of therapeutic use. Native to the dry regions of India, it has been a cornerstone of traditional healing, now capturing the attention of the Western world as a natural adaptogen — a plant that helps the body resist stress.
Historical & Classical References
Mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, Ashwagandha has traditionally been prescribed for:
- Vataroga (neuromuscular diseases)
- Jwara (fever)
- Pachan (digestion support)
- Kushtha (skin disorders)
- Balya (strengthening)
- Rasayana (anti-aging & rejuvenation)
It was often used in powder form (churna) mixed with honey, ghee, or warm milk — still popular methods today.
Ashwagandha Pharmacological Properties (as per Ayurveda)
- Rasa (Taste): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)
- Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (Pungent)
- Karma (Actions):
- Kapha-Vatahara (Pacifies Kapha & Vata)
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Balya (Strength promoter)
- Sukrakara (Improves fertility)
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hepatoprotective
- Antibacterial, Sedative, Hypnotic, Diuretic, Antitumor, Aphrodisiac
- Srotogamitva (System Affinity):
- Supports nervous, reproductive, muscular, and immune systems
- Dosha: Primarily Vata Hara
- Dhatu (Tissue Affinity): Meda (Fat), Shukra (Reproductive tissue)
- Mala (Excretory System): Mutrala (Supports urination)
- Part Used: Root (primarily), also leaves
Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a true Rasayana (rejuvenator), providing broad-spectrum support for physical and mental wellness. It is used traditionally and clinically for:
- Stress relief
- Anxiety and depression
- Improved sleep
- Neurodevelopmental support
- Cognitive performance
- Fertility & libido
- Hormonal balance
- Immunity booster
- Cardiovascular health
- Anti-aging & Rasayana effect
- Physical endurance
Ashwagandha in the Western World
Once a lesser-known herb outside India, Ashwagandha is now featured widely in:
- Supplements for stress, sleep, and focus
- Energy boosters and hormone support formulas
- Fitness and recovery blends
- Adaptogen complexes popular in UK, USA and Europe
Clinical trials and scientific studies have added credibility, positioning it as a safe, natural solution for mental and physical wellbeing.
Recent Research Success of Ashwagandha in Following Conditions
- Proven effective in improving cognitive performance in individuals with early memory decline.
- Supports thyroid hormone balance in people with subclinical hypothyroidism.
- Shown to help regulate blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
- Demonstrated benefit in managing hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance in PCOS.
- Enhances physical endurance, muscle strength, and athletic recovery.
- Provides symptomatic relief in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Reduces symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including anxiety and poor sleep.
- Alleviates menopausal discomfort such as hot flashes, fatigue, and mood swings.
- Found to help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity in ADHD.
- Used as a supportive remedy in neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder.
Precautions & Guidance
Though generally considered safe, consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before long-term use and dosage especially if:
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have autoimmune or thyroid conditions
- You’re on chronic medications
A must have Ayurveda supplement for Indians in UK
Many Indians living in the UK experience stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and fatigue due to busy lifestyles. Ashwagandha is a natural solution, boosting mental calm, physical strength, and immunity.
“I’ve personally recommended Ashwagandha to several friends in UK. From panic attacks to low energy, many are already experiencing real benefits. It’s gentle, holistic, and works with your body’s natural rhythms.”
Whether you’re dealing with modern stress, sleepless nights, or low immunity, Ashwagandha is a safe, time-tested supplement. It blends ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern wellness needs.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
With Wellness
Imma Antonisamy
by Anjelene Immaculate | Jun 19, 2025 | Ayurveda, Wellness & Healing
Why Prepare Karpooradhi Thailam at Home in UK? Natural Pain Relief Oil for Everyday Use
In the UK’s cold, damp climate, many experience body aches, joint stiffness, or seasonal colds—especially students, the elderly, office goers, or young children. Instead of waiting weeks and spending more to order Ayurvedic oils online, you can easily make this powerful, multi-purpose pain-relief oil right at home.
Inspired by Classical Texts — Made Easy for the UK Kitchen
While Ayurvedic classics recommend the 1:4:16 proportion method (Kalka:Taila:Drava), this simplified version keeps the essence and therapeutic power intact, making it easy to prepare at home with ingredients available in our kitchen.
Ingredients (for 500 ml oil)
- Virgin Coconut Oil – 500 ml (available at Goldenacre Minimarket / Holland & Barrett)
- Camphor – 50g (from Spice Supermarket or Indian grocery store)
- Ajwain (Carom) Seeds – 50g
- Optional to grind with Ajawin:
- A small piece of cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- A pinch of turmeric powder
Preparation Method
Grind the Herbs (Kalka):
- In a blender, crush ajwain seeds.
- Add bay leaves, a piece of cinnamon, and a pinch of turmeric(Optional).
- Grind them together with a few drops of water into a coarse paste.
Heat the Oil:
- In a thick-bottomed pan, add 500 ml virgin coconut oil.
- Keep the heat very low
Add the Herb Paste
- Slowly stir in the ground paste (Kalka) into the oil.
- Continue to stir on low flame
Cook the Mixture:
- Simmer the mixture on medium-low heat
- Stir continuously to prevent burning
- Cook until water fully evaporates
- Signs of completion:
- Mixture stops bubbling
- Sound disappears
- Paste becomes dry and rolls into a wick
- Oil clears and floats on top
- Do not add camphor at this stage.
Cool and Add Camphor:
Once the oil is lukewarm strain in another vessel which has 50g camphor and stir until dissolved.
Camphor evaporates at high temperatures—never heat it directly in oil.
Ingredients Source in UK:
Quick Method (Instant Version with Vicks or Menthol Ointments)
For a faster homemade remedy, follow these steps:
- Heat Virgin Coconut Oil (small portion) on low flame.
- Add a spoon of Vicks, Iodex, or any menthol-based balm containing camphor.
- Stir gently until it dissolves (do not overheat – camphor evaporates fast).
- Let it cool and store in a clean jar.
This is a quick-use version when you don’t have camphor crystals but need instant relief.
Storage Tips
- Use sterilized glass containers
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight
- Shelf life: up to 1 year
Benefits of Homemade Karpooradhi Thailam
Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory Action
- Relieves muscular and joint pain: Effective in back pain, sprains, knee stiffness, and neck pain.
- Helps reduce inflammation and swelling post-injury or fatigue.
- Excellent for sports injuries, arthritis, and general soreness.
Stress, Sleep & Mental Relaxation
- Daily foot massage at night with Karpooradhi oil helps:
- Calm the nervous system
- Relieve stress, anxiety
- Promote deep sleep
- Improve eyesight and detoxify
Pediatric & Elderly Use
- Safe for external use in children and elderly:
- Apply on chest, back, neck during cough, cold, nasal congestion
- Effective in vapor steaming or when gently warmed and massaged
Cough, Cold, and Chest Congestion
- Works as a natural decongestant for both children and adults
- Massage over chest, neck, and back to reduce phlegm, cold-induced discomfort
- Can be used before bedtime for better breathing and comfort
Menstrual Cramps & Abdominal Pain
- Warm the oil slightly and massage over lower abdomen for relief from:
- Menstrual cramps
- Abdominal bloating
- Lower back discomfort
Injury, Sprains, Bruises (Non-Open Wounds Only)
- Apply generously over bruises, sprained ankles, or muscle strains
- Especially useful for children, sports injuries, or school accidents
- Aids in quicker recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing circulation
Cold Weather Essential (Especially in the UK)
- Regular body massage improves blood circulation and immunity
- Ideal for winter stiffness, joint issues, and dry skin
- Acts as a natural warming oil in cold climates
Multipurpose Everyday Use
- Add to your nighttime footcare, morning chest rub, or post-exercise massage
- Combine with menthol-based ointments (Vicks, Moov, Amrutanjan) for instant relief
- Use for steaming (external only) for nasal congestion
- A cost-saving, effective, and natural alternative to chemical-based pain balms
🚫 External Use Only – Do not apply on open wounds
Why Choose Homemade Pain Relief oil Over Store-Bought?
- Save Money – Use kitchen ingredients
- No Waiting – Instant access at home
- Natural, Customizable & Safe for All Ages
- DIY Health Solution for Cold UK Climate
Karpooradhi Thailam is a time-tested Ayurvedic oil offering natural relief for pain, cold, and stress-related discomforts. Easily prepared at home with UK-available ingredients, it’s a must-have, multipurpose remedy for every household.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
With Wellness
Imma Antonisamy
