MANIMAHESH -THE ABODE OF LORD SHIVA -

LORD SHIVA - OM NAMO SHAVAI:
This is an old photo of Lord Shiva created by unknown artist some seventy year ago. It was bought by my Grand Father some where in the year 1945 from Amritsar and was installed in our old House at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
I was fascinated by this photograph right from my childhood and seeing Lord Shiva sitting in a meditating position some where in the Himalayas. I used to think of this place as the imagination of the artist.
But during my first visit in the year 1991 to Manimahesh - the artist creativity as shown in this photograph seems to be real and true. During my trek to Manimahesh I found that the typography of the area of Dhanchow and the waterfall is almost similar as depicted in this photograph. The Artist might have got the idea and thought process while making this photograph of Lord Shiva from this place. The water is gushing out with loud and thunder force from two sides of the mighty rock (like shivlingam) in the centre. The cold and clear water like milk of Bhujala river (khad) is moving with mighty force and creating a thunder naad (sound). One can see the big and beautiful rainbow near the waterfall. The area was lush green with full of Herbs such as jurenia Macrocephala; betula utilis and many other rare herbs yet to be identified.

During those 20 to 25 years and even before that the trek to Manimahesh was very harsh and difficult. People were generous, simple and helpful. The pilgrimage used to stay at Local (Gaddi tribal ) people houses who used to feed them with food and shelter free of cost. We have to carry our tents and food articles with us. Only two or three free services (langars) were there. The road from Barhmour to Hadsar was very narrow; dangerous and unmetaled. Only few local jeeps used to ply on this route. One has to trek from Barhmour to Hadsar (10 kms) generally. Later on the road was metaled. There were only few people who used to visit Manimahesh just to pay their humble tribute and reverence to Lord Shiva and take a holy dip at the Manimahesh Lake on the auspicious day of Radha Ashtami. Now-a-days there are lots of free service (langars) are organised by the devotes from Punjab; Jammu and Himachal for the pilgrimage of Manimahesh.

It was in the year 1995 that their was a sudden cloud brust in and around Manimahesh. It was said that lot of foul smelling water was gutted from the lake with mighty force in the Bhujala river. It was during that time the topography of the Dhancho area as well as the waterfall changed. . It was during that year the water fall changed its fall direction and view. Now one can view the flow of water fall from one side more and that mighty rock had been broken. The flow of water was obstructed rocks crushed in between the water fall. Its a true saying that Nature changes its course or direction in a decade.
I pay my humble reverence and bow into the feet of Lord Shiva at Manimahesh by posting this old and rare photograph for devotes of Lord Shiva and also for those who are eager to visit - Manimahesh - The Abode of LORD SHIVA - in the near future so that they can respect the sanctity and holiness of this place. By preserving and maintaining a clean and green environment in the Himalayas without disturbing its topography and ecology is the only true tribute to Lord Shiva in this present day modern world. OM NAMO SHAVAI

URTICA DIOICA - RAW HERB

Urtica dioica : – Also known as - Stinging Nettle; Bigsting Nettle; Common Stinging Nettle; Kazink; Nabat Al Nar; Isirgan;Ortiga mayor; Bichu Butti;
Stinging Nettle is used in the home as a herbal remedy and nutritious addition to the diet throughout the world. It is also commonly used in Kangra, Kullu and Lahaul Spiti districts of Himachal Pradesh. A tea made from the leaves has traditionally been used as a blood purifier and cleansing tonic. The whole plant is antiasthmatic, antidandruff, astringent, depurative, diuretic, galactogogue, haemostatic and a stimulating tonic.

The fresh leaves of nettles have been rubbed or beaten onto the skin in the treatment of rheumatism. This practice, called urtification, causes intense irritation to the skin as it is stung by the nettles. It is believed that the formic acid from the nettles is believed to have a beneficial effect upon the rheumatic joints. For medicinal purposes, the plant is best harvested in May or June as it is coming into flower and dried for later use. Its leaves are dried for further use. A tea is made from the dried leaves is warming on a winters day. A bland flavor, it can be added as a tonic to tea.

Stinging Nettle is used throughout the world for allergic, aches,, asthma, rhinitis bacterial infections, baldness, bleeding, bronchitis, bruises, burns, cancer, catarrh, chest problems, childbirth, constipation, cough, dandruff, diarrhea, dyspnea, edema, elephantiasis, epilepsy, fever, gout, hair loss, hemorrhages, hypertension, insanity, iron-deficiency anemia, kidney stones, leprosy, liver diseases, lung problems, menstrual disorders, neuralgia, obesity, osteoarthritis, pain, paralysis, prostate disorders, rheumatism, skin diseases, sprains, stomach problems, swelling, tumors, uterine disorders, , urinary problems,urinary insufficiency, worms, wounds, and to promote perspiration.

We arrange and collect Urtica dioica from the wild from the Himalayan range of Uttranchal and Himachal Pradesh. Its leaves are collected from the wild and dried properly and packed according to demand. For further details and your orders do writes to us or contact us at the following: http://konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

MANIMAHESH - IN SEARCH FOR THY SELF.

MANIMAHESH - YATRA- The abode of LORD SHIVA - known as the destroyer of everything. This photo is taken during one of my 12th visit to Manimahesh (view at Gauri Kund). Every year people mainly from Punjab; Jammu; Himachal along with other places of India visit this place during the auspicious days - i.e. from Janamashtami (Lord Krishna's birthday) to Radha-ashtami day. During this period there are lots of Langars (free service) by the devotees of Lord Shiva who serve food; medicine; and shelter with full dedication and devotion.

Manimahesh situated at an altitude of about 13500 feet lies in Brahmaur Tehsil of Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, India. From Delhi one can go to Pathankot by train / bus /air; then reach Chamba ( aprox 700 kms from Delhi). From Chamba to Barhmour one can go by private vehicle or HRTC buses. This distance is about 65 kms and time taken is approx 4 to 5 hours as the road is very narrow sometime it is steep along with river Rawi. The view on the way is mind freshening.

Brahmaur - once the ancient capital of the Chamba rulers before the 8th century A.D. was the main center of activities in the princely state of Chamba. It was during those times the temple of CHOURASI (84) were built. The main temple of Manimahesh built in shikhara style was dedicated to Lord Shiva.

On reaching Brahmaur one can stay at Mountaineering Gust House/ Tourist Bungalow run by Himachal Government. Dormitory and rooms are available if you reach their before 4pm. The hills of Barhmour are full of flora and varieties of Herbs are grown wild in this area. At Chourasi one should not forget to visit the temple of LORD DHARAMRAJ - the LORD OF DEATH. It is believed that this is the place where one has to pass through after death. It is here that Lord Dharamraj's Court pronounce his justice according to the KARMA (deeds) of the departed Soul. The LORD GANAPATI; GODDESS LAKSHANA DEVI AND LORD NAR SIMHA (Lord Vishnu) statues are worth seeing and magnificent. The huge SHIVA LINGAM situated in the main temple of Chourasi which is surrounded by very old and tall pine trees. Their is a lifesize bronze statue of NANDI (Bull) in front of the temple of Manimahesh - Lord Shiva.

During the festival season in the month of August / September every year this area is full of activities of local people; devotee's of Lord Shiva and sadhus (saints). From Chourasi (Brahmaur) a visit to Brahmani Devi temple (4kms ) is must for every traveler of Manimahesh. The view of Budhal valley - Mountain range is worth viewing and mind freshing.

From Brahmaur one has to go to Harsar or Hadsar the confluence of two rivers (10 kms by road). Here during old time people of the surrounding areas used to immerses the ashes of their dead one (bones) on the confluence point of the two rivers. From Harsar the real and tough trek starts. It is about 16 kms trek climbing higher and stiff mountain step by step besides river BHUJALA. Local people cover this distance in about 5 to 6 hours but people like us who came from the Metros cities 9 to 10 hours. It is better to halt at Dancho ( the water fall) about 7 kms from Harsar. Next day then one can start early morning and can reach the base of Kailash (Gauri Kund) and can stay near the Holy Lake of Manimahesh.

Taking a holy dip in the ice water lake of Manimahesh is a memorable experience. The weather is very unpredictable. The dance of Lord Shiva -TANDAV - is the true manifestation in the form of Weather in this area. If you are lucky enough by getting the nice weather at night then watching the star at night is a memorable experience. The view of Mount Kailash gives you a sense of pleasure which only an individual SOUL can understand and feel the vibration of that INVISIBLE. It seems that one of the major dream of your life is achieved after viewing the peak of MOUNT KAILASH. YOU CAN FEEL AS IF YOU ARE IN HEAVEN AND YOU ARE THE PART OF THIS UNIVERSE. IT IS ONLY HERE YOU REALIZE THAT YOU ARE CLOSER TO THY SELF - THE IMMORTAL SOUL.

If your mind and body is strong enough one can venture and trek to KAMAL KUND (Lotus shaped Lake - about 4 kms steep trek) near the base of Mount Kailash. This area is full of rare Herbs and one needs lot of knowledge and stamina to identify the proper herb growing in a natural environment as it is a GIFT OF GOD to mankind. WE MUST BE THANKFUL TO THAT ALL MIGHTY WHO HAS BESTOWED UPON US HIS BLESSING IN THE FORM OF HERBS. We must preserve them and use them properly. OM NA MO SHIVA

We are committed to supply pure herbs. We can collect and cultivate the herbs through contract farming for our buyers according to their specifications. We engage the local people who are trained and are aware of the conditions in which herbs are found in their natural habitat.

The herbs when collected are dried in shade, cleaned and stored in good hygienic conditions. At the time of supply / delivery the herbs are cleaned manually, inspected and packed in poly bags / gunny bags as per demand for export/local delivery. For further details do write to us at http://konarkcrafts.com/index.php

MANIMAHESH - KAI LASH- THE TEMPLE OF GOD
No man made Temple is required.
Only thy SOUL - Mani Mahesh
Thought (Mind) is thy Lord.
Manimahesh Yatra - A journey to Heaven.

CONSULT OUR DOCTOR (Ayurvedic Medicine & Herbs)

Dr. Radha Kant Vats –a saint and devotee of Lord Krishna, is a practical example of Karam Yogi –a Saint in this present life and a dedicated physician by profession practicing since 1992. He has authored few books like – Shri Shuk Prakash – a bibliography of Sangitacharya Shri Shukdev Dasji a famous saint and Shri Acharya Rahasya – brief profile of mystic spiritual teachers (Achrayas) of Nimbark Sampardaya.
He treats his patients with much concern and dedication and has been able to cure many complicated patients who had lost hope in life. He lives without pleasure of senses. Simple living and high thinking is his motto. Research in Ayurveda and social services are the only occupations in his life. He had specialized and done lot of research work in treating complicated cases of Disk Degeneration; Chronic renal (kidney) failure; Neurological disorder and skin problems of various kinds. Many patients had been benefited from his medication. If your near or dear one have any medical problem and had tried all the sources then try once the Ayurvedic treatment from Dr. Radha Kant Vats. Please send us your problem in details (medical reports if any) so that it can be cured very soon with very nominal charges for medicine and certain precautions about food habits.

Shri Mahavir Ayurvedic Shodh Sansthan based at Delhi with the main aim of undertaking research work in the field of Classical Ayurvedic Medicine and treatment for the betterment of mankind. Founder: Dr. Radha Kant Vats B.A.M.S. from Kanpur University with the blessing of Gurudev, his Highness Holy Jagadguru Nimbarakcharya Shri Shri Ji Maharaj founded Shri Mahavir Ayurvedic Shodh Sansthan in the year 1999. Since then the Sansthan is also engaged in other activities such as – GOUSHALA (Cow Service); Remedies for a number of clinical conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis; Paralysis; Allergy; Kidney failure etc. and research work on various Herbs- its effects and usefulness in Ayurvedic treatment. Dr. Vats is one of the consultant and guiding force for Konark Crafts Herb Division.

For further details please contact us at: http://www.konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

EMBLIC MYROBALAN / AMRTAPHALA / AMALA:

Emblic Myrobalan / Amala / Amrtaphala:

Phyllanthus emblica Linn.( Fam. Euphorbiaeae ) EMBLIC MYROBALAN :

Emblic Myrobalan - Amla, Aonla in Hindi; in Sanskrit it is known as Amrtaphala, amalaka, Dhatriphala; in English - Emblic Myrobalan.

Amalaki ( Dried Fruit) consists of dried fruits of Embilica officinalis Gaern. Syn. Phyllanthus embilica Linn (Fam. Euphorbiaceae); mostly collected in winter season after ripening and in Kashmir in summer, a small or medium sized tree, found both in natural state in mixed deciduous forests of India ascending to 1300 m on hills; cultivated in gardens, home yards or grown as a road side tree.

Its fruit contains protein; carbohydrates; vitamin C; Tannins; After drying it contains Gallic acid; Glucose. It taste is Sour, Astringent and sweet. It is used in: Diabetes, Headache, Hysteria; Jaundice; Eczema; Piles; cold; Scurvy. It is one of the main ingredients of Cyavanaprasa. For your requirement do write to us at: http://konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

Acacia concinna - Shikakai

ACACIA CONCINNA - Merrue MIMOSAE : SHIKAKAI
A spreading spiny shrub, branches are slender and long. Leaves pinnate compound. Fruits abode fleshy, beaked and constricted. Taste: Bitter, acidic.
Used in: Cough; Jaundice; Vomiting; Liver disease; Lice and Dandruff, Good in hair wash .

SAPINDUS MUKOROSSI - SOAP NUT / Reetha

Sapindus mukorossi / REETHA

Soap Nuts or Reetha grow on trees in the Shivalik Hill and the outer Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh; Uttranchal; Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. In local indian dialect Soapnut is also called as reetha / ritha; doadni, doda and dodan. The shell of Ritha contain saponin, a natural detergent and the active ingredient in soap.

Ritha flowers during summer, which are small and greenish white. The fruit appears in the month of July/August and ripens by Novermber/December. These are solitary globose, round nuts – 2 to 2.5cm diameter, saponaceous, fleshy and yellowish brown in color. The seed is enclosed in a black, smooth and hard globose endocarp. The fruit is collected during winter months for sale in the market as soap nut / retha.

This dried fruit of Soap nut is most valuable part of the tree. Its fleshy portion contains saponin, which is good substitute for washing soap. It is used in the preparation of good quality shampoos, and detergents. It can be used as a natural shampoo for washing ones hair and woolen cloths. The hairs will get a silky shine and special vitality and won't be greasy so fast. The foam production is less than the conventional shampoos.

Soap nut / Ritha / Sapindus mukorossi is also used for its medicinal value in Ayurvedic, Unani and Tibetan Systems of medicine. It is used for treating diseases like epilepsy, constipation, common cold, pimples, nausea, etc. It is allergy free and good for sensitive skin including eczema and psoriasis.

We are procuring good quality Soapnut from the region of Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal. We can supply either half shells crushed or in powder form, packed in 500 grams or 1 kg in PP Bags or Cotton bags with 20 kgs carton box. We can supply you good quality of sapindus mukorossi in crushed form. We are also making reetha seed jewelery. For your orders and further details please write to us at http://www.konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

DRY BLACK MUSHROOMS ( MORCHELLA ESCULENTA )

DRY BLACK MUSHROOMS ( MORCHELLA ESCULENTA )

SEASON OF PLUCKING FROM WILD FORESTS IN HIGHER ALTITUDE
( BETWEEN 5000 FT. TO 8000 FT ) IN THE HIMALAYAN REGION DURING
THE MONTH OF MARCH / APRIL . IT IS DRIED IN NATURAL PROCESS
( SUN DRY) AND PACKED IN POLY BAGS AS PER REQUIREMENT.

SUPPLY TIME FOR DRIED MORCHELLA IS : APRIL TO MAY.
IT IS DRY VEGETABLE VERY GOOD FOR HEALTH
IT IS ALSO KNOW AS DRY BLACK MUSHOOM

GERANIUM CULTIVATION: ESSENTIAL OIL

BOURBON GERANIUM: Essential Oil
Geranium - A perennial aromatic shrub originated from South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco. It was introduced into France; Italy and Spain in the 17th Century. In India it was introduced by the two French people in the Southern part of India in the early nineteenth century (1900 -1915). In India two main verities are grown - Algerian or Tunisian and the BOURBON (Reunion). Geranium Bourbon is the most important of the Geranium Oil and infect, one of the main essential oil used in perfumery. It has a smooth but powerful and persistent odor of rose-geranium, green-leafy and with a fruity, minty background. Traditionally Geranium is used for healing of wounds; ulcers and skin disorder and in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery and colic. In aromatherapy its oil is used for it antibacterial and insecticidal properties.

We are growing geranium in our fields and can cultivate Geranium in bulk through contract farming located in the Kangra district, (near Dharamsala) of Himachal Pradesh as per requirement and can produce one of the high grade Geranium Oil. For further details do write to us at :http://konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

Aloe Vera Cultivation

Aloe vera, also known as the Medicinal Aloe, is a species of succulent plant that probably originated in Northern Africa, Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula.

Aloe vera - a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 60–100cm tall, spreading by offsets. The leaves are thick and fleshy. The flowers are produced in summer on a spike up to 90 cm tall. The natural range of Aloe vera is unclear, as the species has been widely cultivated throughout the world.

In India, this plant is known as Ghrtakumari or Gheekvar in Hindi / sanskrit and used in Ayurvedic treatment for healing. In Rajasthan and Gujarat it is known as Gwar Patha; in Tamil Nadu it is called Katraazhai or kumari. It is also known as Quargandal.

Large scale agricultural production of Aloe vera is undertaken in different parts of the world for supply of its pulp /gel for the cosmetic industry.

Cosmetic companies use alovera in the makeup of moisturizers, soaps; sunscreens and shampoos and lotions for its healing properties.

Alovera juice is used for consumption and relief of digestive use as heartburn and irritable bowel syndrom. Aloe vera is alleged to be effective in treatment of wounds. A recent review (2007)

concludes that the cumulative evidence supports the use of Aloe vera for the healing of first to second degree burns. Aloe vera extracts have antibacterial and antifungal activities.

For supply of Aloe Vera or other raw herbs or contract farming please write to us or contact us at :
http://konarkcrafts.com/herbs.php

Neem - A wonder Tree

Neem Tree (Azadirachtica indica. A. Juss).

It is wildly grown in India. In India there are about one core sixty six lacs of Neem trees which had a capacity to produce approx 6,64,000 tons of neem seeds per year and from this about 1,30,000 tons of neem oil and 5,30,000 tons of Neem cake can be produced in India But unfortunately we are collecting only 25% to 30% of neem seeds from the neem tree produce. Rest is wasted by the road sides in India.

Now a days neem tree cultivation is being done in some other countries such as Western Africa; Australia; Thailand; Indonesia; etc.

Neem is known as a very valuable herb in Ayurveda. Right from its leaf to root everything is having a medicinal values and properties. Neem leaf is bitter in taste. It contains carbohydrates; proteins; Iron; calcium; Phosphorous; Potassium; Magnesium.

Its flowering times is Basant Ritu ( Feb – March). Seeding (Neem Nimoli) collecting time is during June – August (Rainy season). This neem nimoli contains maximum of oil ( 40 –50%)

Neem Oil is derived from Cold Pressing Neem Seeds (NEEMOLI) procured from Neem trees.Our natural and pure Neem Oil has minimum Azadirachtin content of 1500 ppm and various other ingredients like salanin, nimbin etc.

Neem Oil is used as a Bio Pesticides which has no impact on the Non Target pests, safe to Human and non resistance of Insect pests.
Neem Oil Usage:-

1. SKIN CARE

2. ANTIHYPERGLYCEMIC

3. ANTI DIABETES

4. VETERINARY CARE

5. AGRICULTURE

6. ANTISEPTIC /WOUND DRESSING

7. CONTRCEPTIVE

Toxicology:-
Neem oil has Azadirachtin as key ingredient which is responsible for insect growth disrupture,deterring females from laying eggs,repellent & anti feedent properties.

Ecological effects:-

• Practically non-toxic to Rats, Rabbits, Guinea pigs.

• No significant effect on Birds.

• Non-toxic to Aquatic organisms.

• Relatively harmless to non-target and beneficial organisms.

How To Use Neem Oil:-
Neem oil is non soluble in water and has to be made soluble in water with suitable emulsifiers before spraying.
Some commonly available emulsifiers that can be used are hand washing, dish washing liquid soaps, soap oil, eco friendly detergents, soap nut
powder, or any other organic emulsifier. We can also make handmade herbal soap with in neem which will be very good for skin. Its aggarbatties can also be made.

Neem cake is obtained as residue of neem oil from neem seeds which have been crushed to extract neem oil. Neem cake is the most favoured.

Organic Fertilizer and Pest Repellent because of its high Azadirachtin content and high NPK value.

Neem Cake Usage:-

Neem Cake acts as a fertilizer and pest repellent

It protects the roots of crops from Nematodes, Whiteants, Fungi, Bacteria & other soil insects.

It increases the Nitrogen use efficiency of soil and acts as soil conditioner.

Neem Cake is ideal for crops like Rice, Wheat, Cotton, Fruits, Vegetables, Spices, Coconut, Tea Gardens, Flower Plants Sugarcane etc

Ocimum sanctum - Holy Basil - Tulsi

Ocimum sanctum : Holy Basil - a herb from the pesto variety of Basil (Ocimum basilicum). Tulsi, which in Sanskrit means – the incomparable one , is worshipped throughout India. It is regarded as a consort of Lord Vishnu in the form of Mahalakshmi. Basil has been revered in India for over five thousand years, as a healing herb for body, mind and soul, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits for mankind.

Tulsi plant has many medicinal properties. The leaves are a nerve tonic and also sharpen memory. They promote the removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tube. The leaves strengthen the stomach and induce copious perspiration. The seed of the plant are mucilaginous. The leaves of basil are specific for many fevers. During the rainy season, when malaria and dengue fever are widely prevalent, tender leaves, boiled with tea, act as prevente against theses diseases. IThe essential oils in the leaves of Tulsi that contribute to the fragrance and refreshing flavor of Tulsi Tea, are a particularly rich source of valuable phyto-chemicals.Tulsi also known as -"The Queen of Herbs" - is the most sacred herb of India. We can cultivate this herb on contract farming basis with different farmers; group of farmers in Himachal Pradesh and Uttranchal and the produce from these area is of high quality, as the smell and the oil which is collected from this herb in the hill area of the himalayas is of supperior quality and contains good medicinal values.

For further details and your bulk orders please write to us or contact us. we can cultivate it for you in our fields at Himachal Pradesh : http://konarkcrafts.com/contactus.php

Cultivation of Alovera

Cultivation of Alovera

Finally hard work yeilds result, our fields are ready with fresh plantation of alovera.
BARBADOS ALOE - Aloe barbadensis, Mill. LILIACEAE -- Barbados Aloe, or Alovera;- in Hindi - Gwarpatha / Ghee Kuar - a perennial herbs with stolon, fleshy and radical leaves, flowers pinkish red and long scape is cultivated throughout India. The plant is drought resistant, hence only need watering in summer at long interval of 25 to 30 days. Crop period eight months fresh leaves are removed manually. Aloe plantation gives commercial yield from second year and upto five years.
Part used: Expressed and dried juice of leaves and pulp; flowering and fruiting in the end of winder season
Alovera, has been used in both Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine. It is effective as antiseptic, germicidal and blood purifier.
It acts as a soothing agent in skin irritation. The pulp is used to cure: Piles, Cough, Cold, Rheumatism, Constipation Fevers, Colie,
Menstrual disorder. It is also stomachic, Anthelminite, Hepatoprotective. Beauticians use it in skin herbal preparations.

Fashion Jewelery in Rasin beads - Necklaces

Assorted color fashion Necklaces

RIVER RAWI NEAR CHAMBA

AYURVEDA & HERBAL PRODUCTS

India has one of the oldest and richest cultural heritage of using wild plants for treating the physical and mental sufferings of humanity. It is belived that the divine origin of Ayurveda is from Brahma - dates back to the origine of human race.
Rigveda and Atharvaveda (5000 years B.C ) have references on health and diseases. Ayurved texts like CHARAK SAMHITA and
SUSHRUTA SAMHITA were documented about 1000 years B.C. Infect India is the birthplace of Ayurveda - the art and science of perfect living and health care. Ayurveda provides the knowledge to preserve, promote and correct the body as well as the quality and strength of mind so that one can aspire to attain a state of supreme and eternal happiness. It also advocates employing holistic and comprehensive approaches and methods in the treatment of diseases.

Life, in Ayurveda is conceived as the union of body, senses, mind and soul. Human being is a conglomeration of three humours
( Vata, Pitta, & Kapha ), seven body tissues ( Rasa, Rakta, Mansa, Meda, Asthi, Majja & Shukra ) and the waste products of the body such as faeces, urine and sweat. Thus the total body matrix comprises of the humours, the tissues and the waste products of the body.

According to Ayurveda all objects in the universe including human body are composed of five basic elements (PANCHAMAHABHUTAS) namely, ether (vacuum), air, fire, water, and earth. There is a balance condensation of these elements in different proportions to suit the needs and requirements of different structures and functions of the body matrix and its parts. The growth and developoment of the body matrix depends on its nutrition, i.e. on food. The food, in turn, is composed of the above five elements, which replenish or nourish the like elements of the body. The tissues of the body are the structural whereas humors are physiological entities, derived from different combinations and permutations of Panchamahabhutas.