Info Sessions

May 15, 2025

Speaker

Speaker: Dr. Ranganth Masthar, MD Also known as Good Life Doctor

Topic: Deep Relaxation for Better Health

Summary

In this short and sweet session participants were guided through various relaxation exercises, including mindfulness meditation and sound awareness, to promote stress management and overall well-being. In this abridged verion, emphasized the importance of regular practice and the potential benefits of deep relaxation in preventing diseases or delaying the onset of diseases and improving quality of life was emphasized.
Next steps
Dr. Ranganath shares the longer 20-25 minute and 50-minute audio recordings of the deep relaxation technique so one can practice it early in the morning or when one is finding it difficult to fall asleep.

April 17, 2025

Speaker: Dr. and Vaidya Akhilesh Sharmaji

Topic: Ayurveda Kitchen Remedies for Diabetes

Note: The Madhu herbal mix (Salacia reticulata, Chirayata, Jamun seed, Amalaki, Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Moringa, Ashwagandha, Mucuna, Arjuna
Gokshura, Veldt grape) distributed by Maadhev has most of the powders discussed by Dr. Akilesh Sharmaji. Click here to buy.

AI generated Meeting summary for Ayurveda Tips for Diabetes 

Quick recap

The meeting focused on Ayurvedic approaches to managing diabetes, led by Dr. Akhilesh Sharma who shared insights on natural remedies, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle practices. Dr. Sharma discussed various Ayurvedic formulations and their benefits for controlling blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, and addressing related health issues. The session also covered the importance of choosing authentic Ayurvedic products and the value of personalized consultations for tailored treatment plans.

Next steps

• Attendees interested in in-person consultations to contact Dr. Akhilesh Sharma or Mamatha for appointments during his visit to the Bay Area in June.

• Attendees to visit www.ayurvedatoday.org for more information on Dr. Sharma's services and online consultations.

• Attendees to contact Dr. Sharma via WhatsApp or email for personalized consultations and tailored treatment plans.

• Attendees to consider using the suggested Ayurvedic remedies and formulations for managing diabetes, as discussed by Dr. Sharma.

• Attendees to consult with trusted Ayurvedic doctors before starting any new treatments or purchasing Ayurvedic products.

Summary

Madheev Info Session With Dr. Sharma

In the meeting, Mamatha welcomed everyone to the Maadhev info session and expressed gratitude to Dr. Akhilesh Sharma for his participation. She mentioned that the session would be held monthly and that Dr. Sharma would discuss diabetes, a prevalent issue among people over 50. Mamatha also shared her personal experience of using Dr. Sharma's kitchen remedies for constipation, which she found helpful. Dr. Sharma then took the stage, expressing his privilege to be part of the gathering. He mentioned that he had received positive feedback from previous sessions and that he was ready to provide individualized consultations. Mamatha also announced that Dr. Sharma was planning a trip to the Bay Area in June for his son's graduation and that he was willing to provide consultations in person if there was enough interest.

Ayurveda's Ancient Wisdom for Diabetes

Akhilesh discussed the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and its relevance to modern health issues, particularly diabetes. He explained the concept of "swasthya" as a balance of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He also discussed the various types of diabetes as described in Ayurveda, including Udak prame, Kafak prame, and Hastima. Akhilesh emphasized the importance of not taking diabetes lightly and the need for a holistic approach to health. He also shared a historical example of Lord Shiva suffering from diabetes, highlighting the importance of humility and the role of a disciple in providing treatment.

Bilva Plant for Diabetes Management

Akhilesh discussed the medicinal properties of the Bilva plant, which is used in Ayurvedic formulations for diabetes management. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive fire (Agni) for metabolic balance and suggested incorporating millets, barley, and easily digestible green vegetables into one's diet. Akhilesh also recommended avoiding hard-to-digest foods and suggested using Jamun and Tulacy as additional natural remedies for diabetes control.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Diabetes Management

Akhilesh discussed Ayurvedic remedies for diabetes management. He suggested using Haldi, Amla, and Neem, which are broad-spectrum bactericidal and virusidal, and have liver cleansing and anti-aging properties. He also recommended German I'm glad to see and Gudmar, which are anti-diabetic and can help lower sugar absorption in the body. Akhilesh emphasized the safety and effectiveness of these natural remedies, suggesting they could be used as an alternative to chemical medicines. He also mentioned the use of cow's ghee for diabetic neuropathy and the benefits of healthy eating habits.

Natural Remedies for Diabetes Management

Akhilesh discussed various natural remedies for diabetes management. He recommended using fenugreek seeds, which have anti-arthritic, anti-diabetic, and natural phytoestrogen properties. He also suggested using cinnamon, bitter melon, and aloe vera gel, which have been proven to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose absorption. Akhilesh emphasized the importance of consuming these remedies on an empty stomach and before meals. He also mentioned the benefits of using holy basil and ashwagandha for stress reduction and blood sugar control.

Akhilesh Discusses Diabetes Management Techniques

Akhilesh discussed the benefits of Ashwagandha, a tissue builder, for those with diabetes. He explained that it can help return musculature and control sugar levels. Akhilesh also recommended sesame oil massage for better absorption of nutrients and to promote sound sleep. He highlighted the benefits of Vajrasana, a yoga pose, for strengthening the body and improving circulation. Lastly, he mentioned the importance of meditation on the Swadishan Chakra to relax nerves and organs affected by diabetes.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Diabetes Management

Akhilesh shares several Ayurvedic formulas and remedies for controlling blood sugar and managing diabetes. He recommends a mixture of Jamun seed powder, Tej Patta, Bilva powder, and Methi dana, to be taken before meals. He also suggests using Hingwashtak powder, Lavan Bhaskar, and Amla powder as digestive aids and sugar control supplements. Akhilesh provides additional recipes using ingredients like Kali Jeeri, Kutki, and Karela (bitter gourd), emphasizing their benefits for liver health and blood sugar regulation. He concludes by describing an unusual method of standing on crushed Karela to potentially improve insulin production.

Ayurvedic Diabetes Management and Treatment

The discussion covers various topics related to Ayurvedic medicine and diabetes management. Akhilesh explains that Insulator is a product that can help with pancreatic function. He emphasizes the importance of tailored treatments based on individual prakritis (body types) and recommends consultations for specific advice. Akhilesh suggests using jaggery to combat sugar cravings and discusses the concept of virudha ahara (incompatible food combinations). He also explains the proper use of karela (bitter gourd) for diabetes management and advises against eating raw salads for breakfast due to their cooling effect on agni (digestive fire).

Authentic Ayurvedic Products and Raw Herbs

Akhilesh discussed the authenticity of Ayurvedic products, emphasizing the importance of choosing well-established groups and trusting a doctor's opinion. He also shared his experience as a research scientist and consultant, advising the Minister of Ayurveda in Delhi. Nataraj expressed concerns about adulteration and sought guidance on selecting authentic products. Mamatha encouraged attendees to contact Akhilesh for appointments and consultations. The conversation ended with a discussion on the quality of raw herbs and the need for a doctor's recommendation when choosing Ayurvedic products.

March 27, 2025

Speaker: Dr. Ranganth Masthar, MD Also known as Good Life Doctor

Topic: Preventive Measures for Dementia

Summary

Dr. Ranganath Masthar’s talk was incredibly insightful, offering valuable advice on maintaining mental well-being. Three key pointers shared are as follows. He referred to Dementia as Type 3 Diabetes.

Food: He emphasized that a low-carbohydrate, moderate-fat diet is ideal for mental health. Intermittent fasting and "Ekadasi" fasting were particularly highlighted for their mind-clearing benefits. Removing of sugar and carb food is necessary for clearing the brain fog on a daily and bimonthly basis.

Activity: This concept is different from exercise. Dr. Ranganath divided activity into two components: physical and psychological. Both play a vital role in maintaining a healthy mind and body. Regular activity or hobbies, especially involving human interaction, can significantly help in preventing dementia. 

Meaning of Life/Purpose of Life: He stressed that finding meaning in life is crucial, particularly in the second half of life (2nd innings). Engaging with others, helping them, and fostering meaningful connections with people are vital to prevent cognitive decline. While pets and nature are beneficial, they do not complete the circle of what is required for mental health.

It is not just being socially active, it is the quality of the social contact that is important. One could be socially active still lonely at the core. One must nurture an environment where we provide love and receive love; truly experience human emotions. This he said stimulates the growth of new circuits in hippocampus (a crucial part of the brain involved in memory formation, spatial navigation, and emotional regulation) which delays the onset of dementia.

He shared a powerful story about Mahatma Gandhi, who helped cure a Sanskrit teacher infected with leprosy, a disease once thought to be incurable. This inspiring tale served as a reminder of the power of compassion and healing.

He ended the session saying that "Meaning of Life" that is providing a purpose to life  is the most powerful of the three to prevent Dementia.

Lastly, Dr. Ranganath also welcomed everyone to his simple and modest retreat center in Hedthalle, which is located about 20 km from Mysore in a serene, remote area. He encouraged those interested to reach out via WhatsApp through direct messaging.