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THE MEDICINE OF LAKSHA

Laksha, also known as Lac, is a resin produced by the female lac insect (Laccifer lacca). This natural substance has significant applications in traditional medicine, particularly in the healing of bone fractures and the treatment of bleeding disorders. The following outlines the characteristics, Ayurvedic properties, and medicinal uses of Laksha.

HOW IS LAKSHA SOURCED AND COLLECTED?

Laksha is secreted by female lac insects, which feed on the sap of various plants and bushes. The insects appear as tiny, limbless spots on plants, covered with a slick serum. Often, only the resin they excrete is visible, making the insects themselves difficult to recognize. Lac is a primary cash crop in India and Thailand, where it is collected from plants. Before its various uses, Lac undergoes purification processes involving heating and filtering.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES

Taste (Rasa): Astringent (Kasaya)

Main Quality (Guna): Light (Laghu) and Unctuous or Oily (Snigadh or Sneha)

Potency (Virya): Cold (Sheeta)

Resultant (Vipaka): Pungent (Katu)

Therapeutic Effect (Prabhava): Rejuvenation and Supplement

Dosha Karma (Effect on Doshas):

Laksha pacifies the Kapha and Pitta doshas.

SHELLAC

Shellac is a purified form of Lac, typically available as thin yellow or orange flakes. The purification process involves heating and filtering, and sometimes bleaching to produce white Shellac.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF LACCIFER

Laccifer lacca exhibits several healing properties, including:

- Astringent

- Anthelmintic

- Coagulation modifier

- Anti-hiccup

- Antipruritic

- Anti-arthritic

- Anti-inflammatory

- Antiulcer

THERAPEUTIC USES OF LAKSHA

Laksha is widely used for various skin conditions and injuries. It is effective in stopping bleeding from wounds, healing skin ulcers, and accelerating the recovery of skin diseases. Specific external uses include:

- Injuries

- Fungal infections

- Eczema

- Scabies

- Herpes

Laksha's properties such as Rakta Stambhaka (Hemostasis), Bhagnasandhana (Bone healing), and Vranaropaka (Wound healing) contribute significantly to its efficacy in fracture recovery. 

Herbs infused with Laksha penetrate deep into the skin, aiding in the healing of dry or damaged skin, minimizing moisture loss, and revitalizing the skin’s protective layer. It is particularly beneficial in treating severe skin conditions like eczema, which causes redness, dryness, and flakiness of the skin.

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WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF KAPHA DOSHA?

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the principle that "like increases like" and opposites bring balance. This principle is particularly important for managing Kapha dosha, which is characterized by qualities such as being slow, heavy, moist, cool, and oily. 

Here are some lifestyle tips to help balance Kapha dosha and enhance overall well-being:

1. Incorporate spices: 

To counter Kapha’s slow and heavy nature, add warming spices like ginger, pepper, and other heating spices to your meals. These spices help stimulate digestion and invigorate the body.

2. Embrace Variety

Kapha types can often get stuck in routines, leading to inertia and lethargy. Breaking the monotony by trying new hobbies, taking different routes to work, and engaging in varied activities can help keep Kapha energy dynamic and lively.

3. Stay Active

Regular physical activity and fresh air are essential for invigorating Kapha. Activities such as jogging, cycling, and vigorous exercise routines are particularly beneficial. Additionally, engaging in social activities with uplifting friends and family members can boost your mood and energy levels.

4. Dietary Adjustments

Follow a Kapha-balancing diet that includes lighter foods with bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes. Avoid heavy, oily foods, and reduce intake of sweet, sour, and salty items.

5. Keep Warm

In cold and damp weather, stay warm by wearing appropriate clothing. Cover your ears and keep your feet warm with socks to maintain body heat.

6. Follow the Circadian Rhythm

Align your sleep patterns with the natural circadian rhythm by going to bed early and waking up early. This routine helps maintain a balanced energy level throughout the day.

7. Daily Oil Massage

Give yourself a daily massage with stimulating essential oils such as eucalyptus and rosemary. This can invigorate the body and improve circulation.

8. Engage in Introspection

Involve yourself in introspective activities like writing, emotional housekeeping, and meditation to maintain mental and emotional balance.

Yoga Recommendations for Kapha Dosha

Dynamic yoga movements that incorporate pulsing in and out of poses are excellent for creating warmth and circulation in the body. Here are some recommended poses:

Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskara)

Standing Backward Bend (Ardha Chakrasana)

Warrior II (Veerabhadrasana II)

Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)

Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)

Bow Pose (Dhanurasana)

Headstand (Shirshasana)

Shining Skull Breathing (Kapalabhati)

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can effectively balance Kapha dosha and enhance your overall health and well-being.

Do you know the types of Kapha Dosha? Click here to learn

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