I honour the saints who have deeply influenced my thinking. If today I have some good in me the credit goes to grace of such holy saints but absolutely not mine.

I am absolutely a flawed person but I struggle to improve & correct my flaws.

Learning Unlearning & Relearning Truth is my religion.

WHO IS ANDAL ?

The Meaning of Her Name: "Andal" translates to "she who rules" or "governs" the Lord, earned through her compelling and captivating devotion. Andal is known for her exceptional surrender to Lord Vishnu.

True Surrender actually doesn't make you weak but it makes you stronger because when you surrender you become divine instrument of God.

Andal expressed her spirituality through two major poetic works: the Thiruppavai and the Nachiyar Thirumozhi.

Bridal Mysticism (Madhurya Bhakti): Andal viewed herself as the bride and Lord Ranganath as her beloved.

Rejection of Mortal Marriage: Refusing to wed any mortal man, she resolved to marry only Lord Ranganatha (a form of Vishnu) at Srirangam, ultimately merging into the divine sanctum leaving no physical remains behind.

This miraculous event is commemorated annually through symbolic wedding festivals at both Srivilliputhur and Srirangam.

Andal Birth Story :

Andal, the revered 8th-century poet-saint and only female among the twelve Alvars, was found as an infant beneath a Tulasi plant in a temple garden in Srivilliputtur by the devoted priest Periyalvar, who named her Kodhai (gift of the earth) and raised her in deep divine love.

The Discovery in the Garden :

The Saintly Foster Father:

Periyalvar (also known as Vishnuchitta) spent his days stringing fresh flower garlands for Lord Vishnu at the Srivilliputtur temple.

The Miraculous Find: While tending to the temple’s Tulasi garden, he discovered a sweet baby girl lying under a sacred Tulasi shrub.

A Divine Gift: Having no children of his own, he accepted the infant as a sacred gift from God and named her Kodhai, meaning "garland" or "given by the Lord".

Spiritual Upbringing and Identity

A Sacred Environment: Kodhai grew up immersed in holy chants, temple rituals, and endless stories of Lord Vishnu.

Incarnation of Bhudevi: Tradition and scripture view her not as an ordinary mortal child, but as an avatar of Bhudevi (Mother Earth), manifest on earth to teach pure devotion (Bhakti).

Soodi Kodutha Nachiyar: Growing older, she secretly wore the flower garlands meant for the deity to see if she looked worthy of marrying Lord Ranganatha. When her father discovered this and offered fresh un-worn flowers instead, the Lord appeared in a dream to demand the garland she had already worn, earning her the title Soodi Kodutha Nachiyar ("the lady who wore and gave the garland").

Her birthday is celebrated as Adi Puram during the Adi month which is today and her wedding day and subsequent ascension is celebrated as Panguni Uthiram in the Panguni month.

Why I'm a huge Fan of her ?

& What do I learn from her is what I want to share in this article ?

In Thiruppavai, Andal treats Mother Nature not just as a setting, but as a living, sacred partner. She blends divine worship with ecological harmony, specifically honoring rain, flora, and fauna as vital expressions of God's grace.

Pasuram 4 (Aazhi Mazhai Kanna): A direct invocation to the Rain God (Varuna). Andal asks the clouds to dive deep into the ocean, rise thunderously like Lord Vishnu’s conch (Panchajanya), and shower life-giving rain abundantly onto the earth like arrows from His divine bow

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Core Meaning :

The Call to the Rain God: Andal compares the dark, rain-laden clouds to the dark, majestic complexion of Lord Vishnu (Padmanabha). She asks the clouds to roar like the divine conch (Panchajanya), flash lightning like the divine discus (Chakra), and shower arrows of rain like the divine bow (Sharanga).

The Purpose: The prayer asks for unsparing, bountiful rain so that the entire world lives in joy, peace, and plenty.

Pasuram 3 (Ongi Ulagalandha): Describes how sincere spiritual vows bring cosmic balance.

The Mythological Context : The phrase directly references Lord Vishnu in his Vamana/Trivikrama avatar. Lord Vishnu has 10 main incarnations & the purpose of each Incarnation is to establish righteousness & justice throught the world.

In this story, the Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin boy (Vamana) and asked the demon king Mahabali for three paces of land. Once the request was granted, the Lord grew into a cosmic giant (Trivikrama), using his first step to cover the entire earth and his second step to measure the heavens. I will describe this story in full details in my next article dedicating to our Other Festival called Onam.

In the poem, Andal sings: "Ongi ulagalandha utthaman pēr pādi..." which means: "Singing the names of the noble Lord who grew tall and measured the worlds..."She tells her friends that if they bathe and sing praises of this supreme deity while observing their winter vow (Margazhi Nonbu), the entire country will be blessed with unending prosperity:

Perfect rains: Three timely rainfalls every month without any disasters.

Abundant crops: Tall, healthy paddy fields where fish playfully swim.

Generous nature: Healthy cows that willingly overflow with milk to fill giant pots

Nature thrives in return: Timely rains nourish the land, paddy fields grow lush, fish swim freely, and abundant cows provide endless milk for the community.

Observation of Flora and Fauna: Across multiple verses, Andal wakes her friends up at dawn by noting natural transitions—birds chirping, lilies and lotuses opening up, and the cool Margazhi fog lifting, showing deep attunement to the earth’s daily rhythms.

She teaches the importance of aligning with circadian Rythm. I could translate this scientifically as

Dawn Awakening and Biological Alignment :

Early rising: Andal urges people to wake up well before sunrise (“pullum silambina”—birds are already chirping), aligning human activity with the natural light-dark cycle.

Melatonin and cortisol reset: Waking up early exposes the body to natural morning light, which stops melatonin production, boosts alertness, and stabilizes the internal 24-hour clock.

Cellular Repair and Restful Sleep Consolidated Sleep Hygiene:

To wake up naturally in the pre-dawn hours of Margazhi, month (coinciding with English calendar of December -January) the body naturally demands an earlier, consistent bedtime. This complete rest cycle allows the glymphatic system to detoxify the brain and facilitates necessary cellular and DNA repair during deep sleep.

Mental clarity: Getting up during the early dawn hours promotes a natural hormonal balance, clear thinking, and vitality for the rest of the day.

Sattvic State of Mind: The pre-dawn window (Brahma Muhurta, roughly 90 minutes before sunrise) is traditionally regarded as a pure, calm time. Being awake during this quiet period reduces mental clutter and fosters emotional resilience.

Mindfulness Over Rush: Rushing through mornings elevates chronic stress and spikes resting cortisol inappropriately. Andal’s call to rise early and gather together for communal chanting cultivates a peaceful, structured start to the day.

While framed as devotion to Lord Vishnu, this routine inherently mirrors the wisdom of aligning human biology with the natural circadian rhythm and Brahma Muhurta, offering profound benefits for physical and mental well-being.

Purity of Action and Mind:

True righteousness requires engagement of body, speech, and mind (trikarana suddhi) in praising and thinking of the Lord rather than superficial rituals.

Speak no ill will or harsh words & never harm others. Whenever you harm others you strenthen Ego & that leads to dominance of Tamas ( ignorance & impure state of mind)

By stripping away personal vanity , the mind becomes empty of self & ready to be filled with divine.

Kainkarya : Selfless service TO GOD over SALVATION :

While many spiritual paths seek moksha ( liberation from birth & death lifecycle ) as the ultimate goal for Andal eternal loving service to the Lord is superior to libertion. Serving the supreme brings joy to God & the soul making liberation a minor automatic byproduct rather than main prize.

Collective Duty (Samashti Dharma): Andal emphasizes waking up and uniting the community, showing that spiritual discipline is shared rather than pursued purely in isolation. Andal’s approach to service is highly community oriented . In the thiruppavai she does not walk to the Lord alone, but rather goes from door to door waking up her sleeping friends so they all can expierence divine together . She establishes that service must encompassthe welfare of society . Her hymns talk about giving alms , performing acts of charity, ensuring that actions are directed towards making others free of sorrow. Furthermore she broke through rigid societal , gender & caste barriers of era asserting that anyone regardless of background is eligible to serve & receive the grace of supreme.

Her simplicity approach to spirituality is what impressed me the most . Andal’s selfless service dosent require fleeing into the forest or strict pennances , rather it means transforming everyday actions into an offering . whether its threading a flower garland , singing , or cleaning, she lived with the constant awareness that her body & actions belonged to the Lord .

Physical service : Using the hands to clean temples , make garlands for Lord & help whoever is in need.

Mental service : Medidating on the welfare of all beings & the glory of God .

Vocal service :Chanting to spread positive vibrations & spiritual awakening in the community.

Surrender as the Highest Path: The ultimate moral and spiritual duty (Parama Dharma) is absolute surrender at the feet of the Supreme, ( God is one ) transcending ordinary transactional prayers.

"Koodaarai Vellum" (Winning Over Opponents): In the 25th stanza, of Thiruppavai Andal speaks of "Koodaarai Vellum," which is often interpreted as winning over those who do not agree with you or who oppose you, not through violence, but through love and submission to the Lord.

Im today's world I often see people landing up hating & ruining relationships because of disagreements. Real Humility is surrendering to God & sincerely praying for those who disagree with Truth so that they eventually land up agreeging with Truth & aligning with divine will.

Bringing someone misguided to align with God's will should be done with compassion is when you lose ego. If you do it with violence you feed your Ego - & Ego separates you from God. We live in an Ego dominating world and Ego is the worst enemy against spiritual progression.

In Hindu philosophy viewing earth as a living mother (bhudevi ) means that exploiting or harming mother nature & humanity disrupts cosmic balance & incurs spiritual transgression ( apacharam or unrighteousness)

Her message is Live a life without offense : Her teachings imply that a sinless life is one lived in complete alignment with divine grace, shedding ego & respecting sacredness of creation. She is respected as incarnation of Bhudevi & absolute embodiment of nurturing spirit . Protecting Mother Nature is seen as a fundamental duty to maintain cosmic balance & respect the source that sustains life. She emphasizes that human life , natural bounty & divine grace are completely intertwined. I feel that more we are connnected to Mother Nature the more healthier & happier we will be .

Her verses reflect a worldview where humans live in synchronization with the cycles of earth & sky rather than dominating them.

Living with awareness : Traditional daily practices such as asking Mother earth for forgivness before stepping on the ground upon waking , emphasize a low impact , respectful coexistence. Showing reverence for elements like rivers , trees & soil are treated as manifestations of God than resources.

Techniques are broadly classified into focused (or concentrative) and open monitoring methods. Focused methods involve attention to specific objects like breath or mantras, while open monitoring includes mindfulness and awareness of mental events.

Meditation may significantly reduce stress, fear, anxiety, depression, and pain, and enhance peace, perception, self-concept, and well-being. Research is ongoing to better understand the effects of meditation on health (psychological, neurological, and cardiovascular) and other areas.

There are different types of meditation , however i will discuss here mainly about Transcendental meditation , Maharishi effect and Vipassana meditation .

The transcedental meditation (TM) technique provides profoundly deep rest to both mind and body. This rest dissolves stress in the nervous system and improves how the brain functions. After just a few minutes of TM practice, people typically feel more refreshed, clear-minded and ready for action.Over time, Consciousness develops and we enjoy greater success and happiness in life. TM practitioners report inner peace, more creativity, better health, better relationships.

What makes the Transcendental Meditation* technique unique?

TM practice is easy and effortless. It is practiced for 20 minutes twice a day, sitting comfortably with the eyes closed. With this type of meditation, the goal is to eventually transcend to a state of pure awareness that’s beyond the personal self/ego. “Transcend” means to go beyond.

• To learn this consult a Personalized one-on-one instruction by a certified TM teacher.

They’ll teach you all about the Transcendental Meditation technique, and you’ll learn how to meditate. After this session, you’ll receive your mantra. Your Transcendental Meditation teacher selects your mantra for you.

Then, you’ll participate in three more sessions either in person or online. These sessions will include a mix of meditating under your teacher’s observation and learning more about the TM technique.

After that, you can begin practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique on your own every day, twice a day. If you need help or additional guidance, a certified TM teacher is always available to provide individual support, group sessions and other resources.

The authentic TM technique was revived by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi from a tradition that is thousands of years old.

There are lot of benefits proven by over 380 original, peer-reviewed, published scientific studies, including: improved brain function, creativity, & academic performance; better sleep; reduced anxiety and stress; cortisol reduced by 30%; 48% lower risk of heart attack or stroke; 56% decrease in hospitalizations.

Research in the Transcendental Meditation technique supports its effectiveness in several areas. It may have physical, mental, cognitive and emotional benefits. As per Cleveland clinic :

Physical benefits

• Improvement in sleep

• Lower high blood pressure

• Pain management and/or distraction from pain

Mental health benefits

• Improvement of self-esteem

• Management of post-traumatic stress disorder

• Reduction in stress, anxiety and depression

Cognitive benefits

• Enhanced creativity, intelligence and awareness

• Improved energy, focus and memory

• Increased productivity, performance and problem-solving skills

Emotional benefits

• Enhanced clarity of thoughts and feelings

• Improved quality of life and inner peace

• Increased compassion and gratitude

EFFECT OF TRANSCEDENTAL MEDITATION ON BLOOD PRESSURE :

• Overall Effect:

  Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest a trend of increasing evidence supporting TM's ability to lower blood pressure. Some research indicates that regular TM practice may reduce systolic blood pressure by approximately 4.7 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by about 3.2 mm Hg.

• Subgroup Analysis:

  Studies have found that TM may have a greater effect on systolic blood pressure among older adults, those with higher initial blood pressure levels, and women.

• Mechanism:

  The relaxation response associated with TM is thought to play a role in reducing blood pressure. This response can slow down the sympathetic nervous system and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure.

• Clinical Significance:

  The observed reductions in blood pressure from TM, while modest, are considered clinically meaningful. Some studies suggest that TM can be a valuable addition to lifestyle modifications for managing blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

• Additional Benefits:

  Beyond blood pressure, TM is also associated with reduced stress and improved overall well-being

  

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Contrasting Transcendental and Regular Meditation

While both Transcendental Meditation and regular meditation share the goal of cultivating inner peace and well-being, there are notable differences in techniques and practices that set them apart. Let's explore some of these differences in more detail.

Differences in Techniques and Practices

Transcendental Meditation emphasizes the repetition of a mantra, allowing the mind to settle into a transcendent state effortlessly. The technique is designed to help your mind settle down and go beyond the present moment. Regular meditation, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of techniques, such as mindfulness, loving-kindness, or breath awareness.

Each technique offers a unique approach to meditation, allowing individuals to find the practice that resonates most with their needs and preferences. Im not against other types of meditation and i actively promote it , but my favourite meditation techniques include Transcedental meditation and Vipassana meditation . Im specially impressed by the phenomenon of Maharishi effect and its positive impact on society .

Transcendental Meditation (TM) positively influences the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, the body's central stress response system, by promoting a state of "restful alertness" that reduces chronic stress and anxiety. Studies show TM can lower cortisol levels, reduce the cortisol awakening response (CAR), and lead to more efficient recovery from stress, suggesting a more balanced and resilient stress system in long-term TM practitioners

• Improved Stress Recovery:

  Long-term practitioners of TM show a more adaptive and efficient response to stress, recovering more quickly and effectively from stressful situations.

• Brain Reactivity:

  Functional MRI studies have observed reduced brain reactivity to stressors in TM practitioners compared to non-practitioners, indicating a more regulated stress response

  

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Neuroinflammation:

Chronic stress can lead to increased gut permeability, allowing endotoxins to enter the bloodstream. This contributes to neuroinflammation, which alters neurotransmitter production (including serotonin) and further disrupts cognitive functions and mood

There is evidence suggesting Transcendental Meditation (TM) may decrease markers of neuroinflammation, primarily through its effects on stress and the immune system. Studies show TM practitioners have reduced CTRA (Chronic Stress Response Activation) gene expression, down-regulated pro-inflammatory transcription factors like NF-κB, and lower expression of inflammation-related genes, suggesting a molecular basis for potential anti-inflammatory effects. These changes are associated with reduced allostatic load (the body's stress burden), improved stress resilience, and healthy aging.

Molecular Mechanisms

• Gene Expression:

  Long-term TM practice has been linked to lower expression of genes associated with inflammation and aging, such as the SOCS3 gene.

• Transcription Factor Activity:

  TM has been shown to down-regulate the activity of pro-inflammatory transcription factors like NF-κB and up-regulate Interferon Response Factors (IRFs).

• Monocyte Activity:

  Studies observed reduced transcriptional activity of classical monocytes and up-regulated activity of non-classical monocytes in TM practitioners.

• Physiological and Psychological Effects

  • Reduced Stress Response:

    TM leads to a more parasympathetic (calm) physiological state, decreasing the body's stress response.

  • Lower Cortisol Levels:

    Reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol have been observed in TM practitioners, supporting reduced stress levels.

  • Improved Cognitive Function:

    Older TM practitioners demonstrate cognitive processing speeds similar to younger individuals, suggesting benefits for cognitive function and healthy aging.

  Overall Impact

  • Healthier Nervous System:

    By modulating inflammatory pathways and promoting stress resilience, TM contributes to a healthier, more balanced nervous system.

  • Potential for Chronic Disease Prevention:

    The observed changes in gene expression and stress markers suggest TM may play a role in reducing the molecular mechanisms underlying chronic stress, inflammation, and associated diseases.

The Maharishi Effect: The Maharishi Effect is a proposed phenomenon occurring at a collective level, affecting society and the environment.

The Maharishi Effect, refers to the phenomenon where a small percentage of a population practicing Transcendental Meditation (TM) and its advanced techniques can positively influence the collective consciousness of a larger population, leading to reduced crime rates, improved social trends, and increased peace. This effect is based on the idea that individual consciousness affects collective consciousness.

Core Concept: The Maharishi Effect proposes that when a critical mass of individuals (typically 1% practicing TM or the square root of 1% practicing TM and TM-Sidhi programs) within a population create a state of coherence and positivity through meditation, this influence extends outwards, impacting the wider community.

Evidence and Research:

Crime Reduction:

Studies have shown a correlation between the practice of TM by a small percentage of a population and a decrease in crime rates in the surrounding area.

Social Harmony:

Research suggests that the Maharishi Effect can also lead to improvements in other societal indicators, such as reduced mortality rates, fewer traffic accidents, and decreased consumption of alcohol and cigarettes

How it Works:

Individual Coherence:

TM and TM-Sidhi practices are believed to induce a state of deep inner peace and coherence in the individual meditator.

Field Effect:

This individual coherence is thought to create a "field effect," influencing the collective consciousness of the surrounding population.

Positive Societal Impact:

The positive influence of this field effect is manifested in measurable ways, such as reduced crime rates, decreased violence, improved economic indicators, and increased social harmony.

FoxNews.com is reporting on the latest study purporting proof of the Maharishi Effect by researchers at Maharishi International University (MIU), which was founded by the Maharishi, the University of Siegen, and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Researchers claim the study showed that the long-term practice of TM can significantly alleviate stress and slow down aging. "These results support other studies indicating that the transcendental meditation technique can reverse or remove long-lasting effects of stress," co-author Kenneth Walton, a senior researcher at MIU, told Fox News Digital.

Two groups participated in the study, one group ranging in age from 20 to 30 years, and another ages 55 to 72. One half of the participants used TM while the control group did not. Researchers analyzed the expression of genes linked to aging and found the group who practiced TM had lower expression of genes associate with inflammation and aging.

Cognitive function using EEG testing was also conducted and researchers found that older TM practitioners had faster processing speeds.

"The findings around cognitive function are particularly exciting," said co-author Frederick Travis, PhD, head of faculty at Maharishi International University, in a press release. "Both younger and older TM practitioners showed higher scores on the BIS compared to non-meditators, while the older meditators performed on par with young controls," he stated.

Finally, hair cortisol concentration and cortisone were measured. Cortisol plays a key role in the body’s response to stress with high levels being associated with many age-related health issues, including cognitive decline.

"The reduced cortisol-to-cortisone ratio in meditators suggests they have more adaptive reserve, more resilience, contributing to overall health and longevity," Walton explained.

As usual the study received criticism for flawed methodology due to lack of placebos .Other criticism of these studies, and the TM studies they cite, include “allegations of suppression of negative evidence, of fraud and of ‘gross scientific incompetence,’ lack of double-blind controls, refusal to submit raw data, failure to control for set effects, failure to control for expectancy of relief, failure to control for placebo/suggestible-prone subjects, and others.”

TM-EX, a group of former TM practitioners, also reports that “Maharishi affiliated researchers consistently use selection bias in collecting their research data…selecting only data that is favorable to the movement claims.”

information from : https://www.womenofgrace.com/blog/85698

In spite of so much convincing evidence to the contrary, proponents insist that more than 500 studies, including those from leading universities such as Harvard and Princeton, have confirmed it.

According to the Maharishi, there are seven levels of consciousness: (i) deep sleep; (ii) dreaming; (iii) waking; (iv) transcendental consciousness; (v) cosmic consciousness; (vi) God consciousness; and, (vii) unity consciousness

First, the human mind, including consciousness and reflective thought, can be explained by activities of the central nervous system, which, in turn, can be reduced to the biological structure and function of that physiological system. Second, biological phenomena at all levels, can be totally understood in terms of atomic physics, that is, through the action and interaction of the component atoms of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and so forth. Third, and last, atomic physics, which is now understood most fully by means of quantum mechanics, must be formulated with the mind as a primitive component of the system. – Harold Morowitz

In 1933, two German physicists, Walter Meissner and Robert Ochsenfeld, discovered the Meissner Effect—a phenomenon occurring in certain metals at exceptionally low temperatures and typified by a total absence of magnetic infiltration. In an ordinary electrical conductor, incoherent disordered electrons allow penetration by an external magnetic field . In a superconductor, coherent collective functioning of the electrons spontaneously excludes an external magnetic field, and enables the superconductor to maintain its impenetrable status. Physicists working with Maharishi have suggested that the Maharishi Effect may work in an analagous way to the Meissner Effect

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The Meissner Effect in Superconductivity:

When a material becomes superconducting (usually by cooling it below a critical temperature), it expels magnetic fields from its interior.

This expulsion creates a repulsive force, allowing a magnet to levitate above the superconductor.

The superconductor's coherent electron behavior is responsible for this field expulsion.

The Maharishi Effect:

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi proposed that the collective consciousness of a group practicing Transcendental Meditation (TM) can have a similar effect on its environment.

This "Maharishi Effect" suggests that a small percentage of a population practicing TM can create a field of coherence that reduces negativity and promotes positive social trends like decreased crime rates, improved quality of life, and reduced conflict.

The analogy to the Meissner effect lies in the idea that the collective consciousness, like a superconductor, creates a field of coherence that minimizes negative influences from the outside world.

the Meissner effect demonstrates how a material's internal order (coherent electron behavior) leads to the expulsion of disruptive influences (magnetic fields).

According to Maharishi, natural law is the sum total of all the laws of nature that govern the universe, the holistic value of all the laws, and the source of all order in the universe. Elsewhere he writes: “the Unified Field and its self-referral dynamics is the basis of the entire diverse creation, and therefore cannot ever be forgotten or lost; being consciousness, fully awake within itself, it cannot ever forget itself, it cannot ever be lost”.

In yet other writings, he explains that when the human mind settles down and identifies with pure consciousness, another term for Transcendental Consciousness, then this is equivalent to experiencing the unified field, which also forms the basis of collective consciousness.

I think this is the same reason why we feel pain when someone is in pain. We are all connected through universal consciousness.

The unified field is that Planck scale level of nature’s functioning, from where time is generated, from where space is generated, from where energy is generated, from where all the laws of nature begin to take their specific shapes. When the human mind settles down and becomes identified with that level of infinite orderliness, then it becomes consciously stationed at the basis of the universe. This is how we can gain the support of all the laws of nature for our every thought and action. And this is how we can radiate an influence of peace and coherence throughout the environment. By enlivening that basic field of infinite orderliness and harmony in one place, we enliven it everywhere.

Similarly, the Maharishi Effect suggests that a group's internal order (coherence of consciousness through TM practice) can lead to the expulsion of disruptive influences in society (negative social trends).

Twenty peer reviewed studies and more than fifty demonstrations have found that when a relatively small proportion of a population practise Transcendental Meditation and its advanced programs there is a decrease in negative trends such as crime, violence and fatalities. This is known as the Maharishi Effect. The book An Antidote to Violence: Evaluating the Evidence investigates the evidence for this phenomenon in more detail.

As individual consciousness grows, collective consciousness rises; and as collective consciousness rises, individual consciousness grows. Individual consciousness is the basic unit of all levels of collective consciousness – family consciousness, community consciousness, national consciousness, and world consciousness – influencing them all and being in turn influenced by them.– Maharishi

The cause of inner and outer conflicts, with which life on earth has for so long been plagued, lies not in the variety of life’s expressions, but in man’s failure to infuse that variety with the unity, the infinite correlation, which lies at the source of all diversity. This failure is in turn due to lack of knowledge. – Maharishi

Vipassana meditation

Vipassana, meaning "to see things as they really are," is an ancient Indian meditation technique rediscovered by Gautama the Buddha. It's a method of self-purification through self-observation, aiming to eradicate mental impurities and achieve liberation. Vipassana, meaning "to see things as they really are," is an ancient, non-sectarian meditation technique for self-transformation through self-observation. It is taught as a universal remedy for universal problems. The practice is most widely known through the lineage of the late S.N. Goenka, who helped reintroduce it to the world.

After spending 49 days sitting under a Bo-tree meditating, Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha Gautama; he had finally reached enlightenment. During those 49 days, tradition says that Gautama was tempted by the evil one, Mara. By resisting the temptations, he was open to enlightenment.

Vipassana meditation has been shown to reduce crime rates, particularly among prison populations. Studies have indicated that Vipassana courses, especially those conducted within correctional facilities, can lead to a decrease in violence, drug abuse, and recidivism among participants. This is attributed to the development of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and improved mental resilience through the practice.

Core principles

• Self-purification by self-observation: The core of Vipassana is to observe the mind-body connection directly through bodily sensations. This process reveals the universal truths of impermanence ,suffering and egolessness.

• Non-reaction: By learning to observe sensations without craving (for pleasant sensations) or aversion (to unpleasant ones), you can stop reinforcing the mental habits that cause suffering.

• Non-sectarian: The technique is open to people of all faiths, or no faith at all. The Buddha did not teach a religion, but a practical way to liberation that is universal.

• Non-commercial: Vipassana courses are offered for free, with all expenses covered by donations from previous students who have experienced the benefits.

Reduced Recidivism:

Research suggests that inmates who participate in Vipassana meditation courses exhibit a lower tendency to re-offend after release. A study in Seattle's NRF Prison program showed a 20% lower recidivism rate among participants compared to those who didn't.

Lowered Violence and Drug Abuse:

Vipassana training helps inmates cope better emotionally, manage anger, and reduce instances of violence towards themselves and others, according to a study on Dhamma Mudita. It also helps reduce drug and alcohol abuse, according to self-assessment reports from participants.

Improved Mental Well-being:

Vipassana meditation fosters mental peace, resilience, and positive qualities like compassion and forgiveness. It enables inmates to find inner peace, develop a positive outlook on life, and gain self-confidence, according to the Indian Psychology Institute.

Rehabilitation and Reintegration:

Vipassana is used as a prison reform measure to help inmates reintegrate into society after release. It equips them with the inner strength to face life's challenges and make positive changes.

General Effects of Vipassana:

Increased Self-Awareness:

Vipassana meditation enhances self-awareness, allowing individuals to understand their thoughts, emotions, and reactions better.

• Increased empathy and compassion: A deeper understanding of one's own suffering can lead to greater compassion for others.

Improved Emotional Regulation:

By developing self-awareness, individuals can better regulate their emotions, reducing impulsivity and aggression.

Stress Reduction:

Vipassana practice has been shown to reduce stress levels, which can contribute to a more peaceful and balanced state of mind.

Enhanced Tolerance and Compassion:

Through mindful observation of their own internal experiences, individuals can develop greater tolerance and compassion towards others, according to a paper on The International Journal of Indian Psychȯlogy.

Buddha and Angulimal story :

Angulimala was born Ahimsaka, but due to a misunderstanding, he was manipulated into becoming a murderer, wearing a garland of fingers from his victims.

He encounters the Buddha, who, despite the danger, walks towards him.

When Angulimala encountered the Buddha, he was on the verge of killing him. However, the Buddha's calm demeanor and compassionate gaze had a profound impact on Angulimala.Instead of reacting with fear or anger, the Buddha addressed Angulimala with kindness, urging him to stop his violent actions.

Recognition of Negative Patterns:

The Buddha's words and presence helped Angulimala see the destructive nature of his actions and the suffering they caused, both for others and for himself. This id the power of meditation . The aura of Buddha brought positive transformation in him .

Embracing the Path of Dhamma:

Angulimala, deeply affected by the Buddha's message, abandoned his violent ways and sought refuge in the Buddha's teachings, becoming a monk.

Transformation:

Through meditation and the guidance of the Buddha, Angulimala gradually transformed his mind, shedding his violent tendencies and developing compassion and wisdom.

The day end what i feel is irrespective of studies i would still say that giving a try into transcedental meditation or vipassana meditation is a good effort . If Gautam Buddha could transformation in Angulimal then definitely there is a science that meditation can bring transformation . It depends certainly on what extent of consciousness you rise upto .

Meditation is a definite process of hardwork and when you reach such a state of consciousness it is duty of Mother Nature to bless you with powers . You are gifted with psychic powers and you can use those psychic powers for the benefit of humanity. Remember again if you misuse those powers you are doomed to suffer hell because remember Universe is watching you. We are all bound by Laws of Mother Nature and karma has its own consequences. Everything in NATURE is bound by Karma .

The Six Higher Knowledges ( 𝐴𝑏ℎ𝑖𝑗ñā) which Shakyamuni Gautam Buddha attained :

Various Psychic Powers

The following are the six higher knowledges attributed to the Buddha:

• Creating duplicates: The ability to multiply one's body into many forms and return to one.

• Invisibility: The power to appear and disappear at will.

• Passage through solid objects: Going unhindered through walls, ramparts, or mountains as if through air.

• Walking on water: The ability to walk on water without sinking.

• Levitation and flight: Traveling through the air while seated cross-legged, like a winged bird.

• Touching the sun and moon: Reaching out to touch and feel celestial bodies.

• Diving into the earth: Moving in and out of the ground as if it were water.

Divine Ear: This is the faculty of clairaudience, the ability to hear sounds both human and divine, whether near or far, beyond the range of ordinary hearing

3. Penetration of Others' Minds:

Also known as telepathy, this is the capacity to directly know the minds, mental states, and intentions of other beings.

4. Remembrance of Past Lives: The ability to recall one's own manifold past lives, including details of names, families, and experiences across countless rebirths.

5. Divine Eye :Also called clairvoyance, this is the ability to see beings passing away and being reborn according to their karma. It includes discerning their karmic destinies.

6. Knowledge of the Extinction of Taints: This is the supramundane knowledge of the complete eradication of all mental defilements (taints of sensuality, becoming, and ignorance). This power is unique to Buddhas and Arahants and leads to the direct realization of Nirvana.

Other Abilities Mentioned in Relation to the Buddha:

• Taming Wild Animals: The Buddha was said to have the ability to tame wild animals like elephants and buffaloes through loving-kindness

  

  Creating a Fire That Extinguishes Itself: the Buddha created a fire that extinguished itself as it approached him, demonstrating control over natural elements.

• Miraculous Healings: The Buddha and his disciples were known to perform miraculous healings. People who achieve this state of consciousness can actually heal some incurable conditions and treatment resistant illness. Even Jesus Christ was known for performing miraculous healings because of the meditative powers he attained through prayers.

  

Remainder there are many people who have misused their powers acquired during meditation and spiritual practices and have had karmic consequences. This is not magic but evidence based science which has still not been explored.

WARNING : There is a pandemic of spiritual ego

.Its not just knowledge , jargon books, powers or wisdom. While all of this form a part of spirituality . The only thing that matters Truth . When we lie , hide away from Truth or treat others without respect , we step away from spiritual path. If someone practices spirituality but acts and lives without intergrity , they are feeding spiritual ego. OUR spiritual level is revealed in how we speak our truth , how we treat others and our ultimately our willingness to what is hard when it is right and when it is in intergrity.

While acknowledging the reality of these abilities, the Buddha frequently cautioned against becoming attached to them. He emphasized that the first five "mundane" powers, though impressive, are merely side-effects of advanced meditation and do not lead to ultimate liberation. The true and ultimate "miracle" is the power of instruction (Ā𝑠𝑎𝑣𝑎𝑘𝑘ℎ𝑎𝑦𝑎−ñā𝑎), which purifies the mind and leads to the end of suffering. Buddha generally condemned the public display of supernatural powers, as shown in the Kevada Sutta. He viewed these powers as potentially misleading and inferior to the true path of spiritual development, preferring to rely on his profound teachings to guide people towards enlightenment. REMEMBER

POWERS ARE TEMPORARY ; RIGHTEOSNESS IS ETERNAL

Reasons for Condemning Displays of Power

• Focus on the True Miracle:

  The Buddha emphasized that the real "miracle" was the ability to teach and guide others to understanding.

• Misleading and Skeptical Public:

  He believed that people would often dismiss displays of supernatural abilities as tricks or deception rather than genuine spiritual power, leading to incorrect beliefs.

• Distraction from True Goal:

  Such displays could distract from the true path of spiritual practice and liberation from suffering, as they appealed to superficial curiosity rather than the need for deeper insight.

• My view resonates with Shakyamuni Gautam Buddha and i also believe not to use those powers and perhaps only use powers to condemn violence in the society and to bring back righteousness. The end goal ofmeditation is to acquire CHRIST CONSCIOUSNESS / KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS / GOD CONSCIOUSNESS and benefit the society in a positive way.

• 

Thus i would like to conclude and say that meditation does not only have personal health benefits alone but has any other benefits like reducing violence in society and bringing positivity. Change your Aura and let of Abundance of positivity come from you and uplift the society !

Have a blessed week ahead !

An endocrine disruptor is a substance, either natural or man-made, that interferes with the body's endocrine system, which regulates hormone production and function. These disruptions can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including developmental problems, reproductive issues, and increased risk of certain diseases.

Common sources of endocrine disruptors:

Everyday products:

Many household items contain endocrine disruptors, such as cosmetics, food and beverage packaging, toys, and cleaning products.

Pesticides:

Some pesticides used in agriculture and pest control can also act as endocrine disruptors.

Industrial chemicals:

Certain industrial chemicals, like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), are known endocrine disruptors.

Clothing : Is polyester an endocrine disruptor? This question has become increasingly relevant because polyester—one of the world’s most commonly used synthetic textiles, accounting for about 70% of synthetic fibers—can incorporate chemicals known to interfere with hormonal systems. Researchers have documented substances such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and antimony in polyester, highlighting possible routes of human and environmental exposure. Workout wear made from synthetic fabric is treated with chemicals, which research shows can be absorbed through skin. An increasing number of sports bra and athletic wear brands have been found with high levels of BPA in them, a chemical compound that’s used to make certain types of plastic and can lead to harmful health effects such as asthma, cardiovascular disease and obesity, a watchdog group said.

Natural products: Phytoestrogens, which are naturally occurring in some plant-based foods, can also act as endocrine disruptors. A particular area of concern is the use of soy-based infant formula, as it exposes infants to high levels of phytoestrogens during a critical period of development. Some studies have shown potential links between soy formula and changes in play behavior in girls. Im personally not a fan of soy and dont recommend most soy products.

Certain prescription drugs can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body's hormone systems. These include medications like corticosteroids, certain psychiatric drugs, and hormonal birth control pills. Other drugs, such as some antibiotics , Antivirals and antipsychotics, can also have endocrine-disrupting effects.

Contraceptives contain synthetic versions of estrogen and/or progestin.

When these synthetic hormones enter the body, they can bind to hormone receptors, potentially mimicking or blocking the effects of natural hormones. This can lead to various effects, including changes in brain function, immune system responses, and reproductive health. I have already discussed harmful effects of oral contraceptive pills in my previous articles in detail . Please read them to know the adverse effects so that you are informed and educated

Examples of endocrine disruptors :

Bisphenol A (BPA): Used in plastics and epoxy resins. Chemicals found in plastics (like BPA) can mimic and interfere with the body’s hormones, potentially leading to lower testosterone and a feminization of male traits. Avoid plastic and use glass containers and bottles instead.

Phthalates : Used to soften plastics and in personal care products. phthalates can potentially increase the risk of certain infections, particularly respiratory and allergic-related ones, by impacting the immune system and potentially compromising mucosal barriers

.

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) : Used in non-stick cookware and firefighting foam.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7926449/

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): Used in electrical equipment and some industrial applications.

Glycol ethers are versatile solvents used in a wide range of industrial and household applications, including coatings, cleaning products, inks, and pharmaceuticals. In textile and Leather Processing Glycol ethers are used in dyeing, finishing, and coating applications. They act as solvents and cleaning agents in the manufacturing of semiconductors. Some glycol ethers are used as anti-icing agents in brake fluids.

https://www.glycol-ethers.eu/glycol-ethers-and-endocrine-disruption/#:~:text=There%20is%20increasing%20concern%20and,other%20species%20via%20the%20environment.

Research suggests that the toxicity associated with glycol ethers may occur through non-endocrine pathways, such as reprotoxicity, narcosis, and effects on the liver and kidneys.

Specific Glycol Ethers and their Hazards:

Ethylene Glycol Methyl Ether (EGME): Associated with blood disorders like anemia, granulocytopenia (low white blood cell count), and leucopenia (low white blood cell count). Also linked to increased risk of abortion.

Ethylene Glycol Ethyl Ether (EGEE): Similar to EGME, EGEE has been linked to blood disorders and reproductive effects.

Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (EGBE): Can cause skin irritation and may be absorbed through the skin.

Propylene Glycol Methyl Ether (PGME): Studies have shown potential for kidney damage and liver effects.

Studies have shown that prenatal exposure to certain glycol ethers, like 2-phenoxyethanol, may be associated with variations in sex steroid hormones at birth.

Triclosan : Disrupts hormones , Linked to Antibiotic resistance , May Trigger breast cancer cells growth . Triclosan exposure has been shown to decrease thyroid hormone levels in some animal studies and may affect thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism. Studies have found that triclosan can affect testosterone and estrogen levels, potentially impacting reproductive health. Triclosan may disrupt bone metabolism, potentially affecting bone density and increasing the risk of osteoporosis, especially in women

.

Atrazine: An herbicide used to control weeds in crops.

Study in male rats has demonstrated that atrazine exposure can lead to reduced testosterone levels, delayed puberty, and decreased sperm production. In females, atrazine has been linked to altered estrous cycles and changes in ovarian function.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4181665/#:~:text=Abstract,by%20de%20novo%20hormone%20synthesis.

Metabolic Disorders associated with EDCs:

Endocrine disruptors have been associated with pcos ,obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic problems.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4086778/

Hormonal Imbalance and Acne :

Acne is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly elevated androgen levels. These androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum, which can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, leading to acne.

Endocrine Disruptors and Androgen Activity:

Some endocrine disruptors, like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, have been shown to possess androgenic activity, meaning they can mimic or enhance the effects of androgens in the body. This can lead to increased sebum production and potentially exacerbate acne.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8228950/

Immune System Dysfunction associated with EDCs :

Disruptions to the endocrine system can also affect the immune system, potentially leading to immune-related issues, such as autoimmune diseases. Some EDCs can cause DNA damage and epigenetic changes, which may alter gene expression and contribute to the development of SLE.

Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and dioxins are examples of EDCs that have been studied for their potential links to SLE.

A study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicated a correlation between phthalate exposure and higher prevalence of RA.

Other research has shown that exposure to specific EDCs, like PAHs, can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in arthritis models, potentially mimicking RA.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001393512301023X

How Deodrants can damage our health Physically and Spiritually ?

Most Conventional deodrants are loaded with extremely harmful ingredients like Pthalates, Aluminium, Parabens , PEGs and Triclosan . These substances are going right next to breast tissue and Lymph nodes .

The Armpits are so vulnerable

The skin in your arm pits are so thin and more permeable . It's a warm and moist area which increases absorption . Its an area with natural skin on skin friction, sweat glands and hair follicles.Shaving causes microcuts that allows easy entry .It's close to the breast tissue area which increases absorption . Its an area with natural skin on skin friction, sweat glands and hair follicles. Shaving causes microcuts that allows easy entry .It's close to the breast tissue which is loaded with Lymph nodes. Now imagine what a disaster are we committing by using deodrants loaded with Endocrine disrupters.

Deodorants can clog pores in the armpits, which are already prone to blockage due to sweat and moisture. Clogged pores create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to folliculitis.

EDCs, such as phthalates, parabens, and synthetic musks, can disrupt the body's natural hormone balance, potentially leading to skin issues like folliculitis. These chemicals are often found in fragrances and can be absorbed through the skin.

Armpits are indeed prone to allergic reactions, specifically a condition called allergic contact dermatitis. Common culprits include ingredients in deodorants, antiperspirants, soaps, and laundry detergents. If they are not addressed they can lead to scarring, chronic infections , psychological issues like Anxiety and Depression.

Perfumes, especially those with strong scents, can mask or overpower the natural body odor, which can contain pheromones and other signals that influence attraction.

This masking effect may make it harder for others to perceive and respond to the subtle cues associated with natural pheromones.

Pheromones and Genetic Compatibility:

Some research suggests that body odor, particularly pheromones, can play a role in attraction by signaling genetic compatibility.

Body odors, including pheromones, may play a role in both initiating and maintaining romantic relationships, influencing attraction and potentially impacting the quality of those relationships.

Deodorants can mask a person's natural scent, potentially making it harder for others to pick up on olfactory cues, including those related to pheromones and genetic compatibility.

Aluminium doesn't just Blocks sweat .It mimics estrogen . We all know Estrogen dominance is linked to Breast cancer , Fibroids , Hormonal acne , PMS , endometriosis and PCOS .

Several studies have found higher levels of Aluminium in breast tissue specially upper outer quadrant closest to Armpit especially in women suffering from breast cancer.

Many researchers now believe Aluminium could be contributing factor in hormone driven cancers .Lab studies have shown Aluminium can cause damage of DNA and alter breast cell behaviour.

Endocrine disruptors can significantly harm fish, impacting their reproduction, development, and overall health. These chemicals interfere with the hormonal systems that regulate these processes, leading to a variety of negative consequences. These disruptions can manifest as altered sex ratios, reduced fertility, and compromised immune function, leading to changes in mate choice, courtship rituals, and even sex determination thus negetively impacting the overall health and sustainability of fish populations.

Impact on Birds:

In birds, EDCs can affect the development of sex organs, the production of hormones like testosterone and estrogen, and the expression of behaviors related to mating, such as courtship displays and mate selection.

Examples of Altered Mating Behaviors :

Studies have shown that exposure to EDCs can lead to:

Demasculinization of male sexual behavior.

Impairment of male sexual behavior.

Changes in female reproductive organs and egg-laying.

Reduced reproductive success.

Altered mating behaviors can have significant consequences for bird populations, including reduced reproductive success, skewed sex ratios, and decreased population viability.

Endocrine disrupters have Transgenerational Effects :

Some EDCs can cause changes that are passed down through generations, affecting the reproductive health and behaviors of offspring even if they were not directly exposed to the chemical. These effects are often mediated through epigenetic mechanisms, which alter gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence.

Developing fetuses and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of EDCs, as their bodies are still developing.

https://academic.oup.com/endo/article/160/6/1421/5473530

Has Endocrine disrupters contributed to pandemic of Infertility ?

Perhaps true and Assisted Reproductive technology cannot solve this problem solely.

We will still have failure because this will not address root cause of Endocrine disrupters causing health problems.

Endocrine disruptors can decrease egg quality, Menstrual abnormalities, Anovulation and birth Defects.

Reduced sperm counts and motility:

EDCs can negatively impact sperm production and quality, leading to decreased fertility in males.

Changes in mating rituals:

EDCs can alter the expression of hormones that are crucial for mating behaviors, potentially affecting the attractiveness or success of a potential partner.

Altered physical appearance:

EDCs can affect the development of secondary sex characteristics, such as body size, plumage, or coloration, which can influence mate selection. This can occur through several mechanisms listed as below

Hormone Mimicry:

Some EDCs act like hormones, binding to hormone receptors and triggering similar responses in the body, potentially leading to overstimulation or disruption of normal hormonal pathways.

Hormone Blocking:

Other EDCs can block hormones from binding to their receptors, preventing the intended biological response. This can disrupt normal developmental processes and physiological functions.

Altered Hormone Production:

EDCs can also interfere with the production, transport, metabolism, or elimination of hormones, leading to imbalances and disruptions in bodily functions.

Endocrine disruptors are a big cause of Estrogen dominance because they are the xenostrogens burdening your liver and damaging your gut health. Further they can indeed reduce melatonin levels, negetively impacting sleep, circadian rhythm and other bodily functions. Specifically, exposure to chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and nonylphenol (NP) has been shown to disrupt melatonin production and its associated rhythms, potentially leading to sleep disturbances .

Several EDCs have been identified as potential contributors to early puberty, including bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastics, pesticides like DDT, and certain industrial chemicals and phthalates.

Disrupted social behaviors:

EDCs can affect the development and function of the brain regions that control social behaviors, potentially leading to changes in aggression, social hierarchy, or other social interactions.

Altering Female Preferences:

Female mate preferences are often guided by hormonal cues as well. If EDCs disrupt these cues, females might be attracted to males with altered signals or be less discerning in their choices.

Impact on Reproductive Success:

If animals choose partners based on flawed signals due to EDC exposure, it can lead to reduced reproductive success, as the offspring might inherit less desirable traits or experience developmental problems.

Developmental Issues :

Disruptions in hormone levels during development can impact growth, brain development, and other critical developmental processes, potentially leading to learning disabilities, neurological disorders, and other developmental issues.

Population-Level Effects:

Changes in mate choice due to EDCs can affect population sex ratios and even lead to local extinctions or community-level disruptions.

Environmental Impact:

Endocrine disruptors like pesticides and herbicides, some with long half-lives and persistent in the environment, are another significant source of environmental pollution. Leachate from landfills and agricultural runoff contribute to environmental contamination.

EDCs enter the environment through various routes, including air, water, soil, and food, with potential for bioaccumulation in the food chain. The wastewater plants are not always fully effective in removing EDCs, leading to their release into waterways and potentially contaminating drinking water sources.

EDCs can cause reproductive problems, developmental abnormalities, and changes in behavior in various animal species. For example, feminization of male fish has been observed in contaminated environments.

Notable example : Oral contraceptives can also enter the environment through wastewater and potentially affect aquatic organisms. Studies have shown that these synthetic hormones can feminize male fish, leading to reproductive issues.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3933258/

Karmic consequences :

Endocrine disruptors are neither good for human race nor for animals nor for our environment.

If we continue to bring alterations in fish and bird populations the amplified negetive karma will come back to us affecting human populations. This will definitely bring catastrophe to humanity race and can potentially cause decline in population. I can clearly witness marked increase in dangerous diseases in humans . It's time we get back to Mother Nature, obeying her laws and by incorporating natural products.

If we bring altering in mating of fishes and birds breaking their relationships and disrupting their social behaviors this will definitely come back to us in other form.

Already Divorced or breaking relationships are very common in our society . I will write an article subsequently about Godly marriages. Get back to Mother Nature , Obey God, Prioritise Truth. What do you think ? should i write an article on godly marraiges , ( i swear i ll read up hindu and biblical scriptures )let me know in comments ?

Stay blessed…

HOLY FRIDAY

These Sheaths include the physical body but also extend beyond it as follows :

• Annamaya Kosa : the gross or Physical Kosa which sustains on the food consumed

• Pranamaya Kosa : the vital Kosa resulting from breathing and flow of prana ( vital life force )

• Mano maya Kosa : The mind based kosa , with thoughts which cause mental modifications.

• Vijnana maya Kosa : the intelligence kosa , where the mind has gained the ability to distinguish right from wrong (vijnana)

• Anandamaya kosa : The eternal bliss kosa that results in enlightenment.

I'll describe each one in detail depth

Annamaya Kosha, meaning "the food sheath," is the physical body, the outermost of the five koshas in the Indian philosophy of Pancha Kosha. It's nourished by the food we consume and encompasses the physical structure of the body, including muscles, bones, and organs. Some of the most nourishing foods mentioned in Ayurveda is Meat and eggs. These are best foods provided by Mother Nature to prevent diseases. Ofcourse When you have developed a disease, you may need several more interventions to cure like Healing herbs and Supplements to correct nutritional insufficient and deficiencies

.

The Annamaya Kosha serves as the foundation upon which the other four koshas, namely Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya, and Anandamaya, are built. Diseases manifesting in the Annamaya Kosa affecting the other kosa is also possible. These are called as Somatopsychic diseases referring to the diseases of the physical body causing problems in mental health. We can explain how gut health and can influence mental health by this phenomenon.

How Dementia can affect all the 5 koshas?

Dementia can significantly impact moral thinking and behavior, particularly in the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Individuals with bvFTD may exhibit antisocial behaviors, such as taking utilitarian choices in moral dilemmas (harming one to help others), and struggle with social cues and emotional responses. This can lead to violations of social norms and even legal infractions.

Dementia is often as a result of Alzheimer's disease , consequence of many long term medications ( specially Psychiatry drugs), nutritional deficiencies, Thyroid disorders , Head trauma , Normal pressure hydrocephalus. Dementia leads to the degeneration of brain cells and their connections, disrupting cognitive functions like memory, thinking, and reasoning. These disruptions directly affect the functions of the Manomaya Kosha, as it is the layer of consciousness that governs these mental processes. It can potentially disrupt the flow of vital energy (Prana) within the body thus negatively affecting Pranamaya Kosha.

Another eg: A patient of Liver cirrhosis is prone to develop psychosis and hepatic encephalopathy ( this is because of toxic liver and how it affects your thinking, your mental status ). This explains liver's inability to remove toxins, like ammonia, from the blood, leading to their buildup in the brain and impacting brain function. This can manifest as mental confusion, disorientation, and even psychosis.

Kidney failure can increase the risk of psychosis, primarily due to the buildup of toxins in the body (uremia) that can affect the brain.

Pranamaya Kosa : It is the energy body, linked to breath, mood, and overall vitality. When prana flows smoothly, one feels energetic and healthy; when it's blocked, one experiences fatigue or illness.

The diaphragm is the primary muscle of inhalation, and its proper functioning is crucial for efficient breathing. When you breathe deeply, the diaphragm descends, creating space in the chest cavity and allowing the lungs to fill with air. This movement also stimulates the flow of prana throughout the body.

Impact of a Poor Diaphragm on Pranamaya kosha :

If the diaphragm is weak or restricted, it can lead to shallow, inefficient breathing. A weak or restricted diaphragm can negatively impact the Pranamaya Kosha, the vital energy sheath in yoga, by hindering the flow of prana (life force) and potentially leading to imbalances in the body's energy system. This can manifest as reduced vitality, difficulty breathing, and even emotional or mental disturbances. This can restrict the flow of prana, potentially causing blockages or imbalances in the Pranamaya Kosha.

Consequences of Imbalanced Prana:

An imbalanced Pranamaya Kosha, due to a poor diaphragm, can manifest in various ways, including:

Reduced Vitality: A lack of vital energy or feeling fatigued.

Respiratory Issues: Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or feeling like you can't take a deep breath.

Emotional and Mental Disturbances: Anxiety, restlessness, or difficulty focusing. Stressful thoughts in turn affect our breathing patterns and thereby impact Pranamaya kosha . If we observe how the pace and manner of breathing change during stress , happiness and instances of deep relaxation we understand the play of Pranamaya kosha.

When stress begins to impact breathing patterns, pranayama or breathing techniques can play a very important role to regulate the breath and prevent it from disturbing the Annamaya kosha.

Poor gut health can negatively impact the Pranamaya Kosha, the vital energy sheath in yogic philosophy, which is closely connected to the breath and physical energy. Disturbances in the gut can disrupt the flow of prana (life force) and affect the body's energy levels, leading to symptoms like fatigue and sluggishness.

Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (2016) demonstrated that regular pranayama practice improves lung function by increasing vital capacity and forced expiratory volume, making the lungs stronger and more efficient at air intake.

All lung diseases can negatively impact the pranamaya kosha, which is the energy or vital force body in yogic philosophy, by affecting breathing patterns and reducing the flow of prana (life force). This can lead to a weakened respiratory system, increased breathlessness, and a feeling of depleted energy. Conversely, practices like pranayama (yogic breathing techniques) can help strengthen the pranamaya kosha, improve lung function, and promote a sense of calm and well-being in individuals.

Techniques like Bhastrika (bellows breath) and Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath) train the respiratory muscles, making them more efficient and improving the body's ability to expel carbon dioxide.

Sarcopenia and Respiratory Muscles:

Sarcopenia primarily affects skeletal muscles, and this includes the muscles involved in breathing, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. Weakening of these muscles can lead to decreased respiratory capacity and reduced ability to take deep breaths, which are essential for pranayama. Another example to understand how Anamaya kosha affects the Pranamaya kosha ( ie weak muscle causing negetive impact on Pranamaya kosha)

The pranamaya kosha is responsible for regulating vital energy through the chakras. Imbalances in this energy flow, potentially triggered by stress and negative thinking, are believed to contribute to the development and progression of cancer.

Many cancer patients experience sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. This can be a result of the cancer itself, the cancer treatments, or a combination of both, potentially impacting their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, can impact the Pancha Koshas (five layers of human existence in yoga) by affecting the Annamaya Kosha (physical body), Pranamaya Kosha (energy body), and potentially the Manomaya Kosha (mental body) and Vijnanamaya Kosha (intellectual body). Sarcopenia's impact on the physical body can create a ripple effect through the other koshas, potentially affecting a person's overall well-being and experience of life.

Endometriosis a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can impact the pranamaya kosha (energetic body) by disrupting the flow of prana (life force) and potentially causing imbalances in the nervous system. This can manifest as fatigue, pain, and emotional distress, which are all interconnected with the energetic body. Endometriosis can cause inflammation and pain in the pelvic region, potentially obstructing the natural flow of prana in the lower abdomen and pelvic area. This blockage can lead to feelings of stagnation, heaviness, and decreased vitality. The pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis can trigger the body's stress response, leading to an overactive sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight). This can disrupt the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which are both involved in regulating energy flow and overall well-being. Endometriosis can cause inflammation in the pelvic area, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the reproductive organs.

According to Ayurveda, this condition is due to disturbed or altered Vata dosha. Mainly “Apana vayu vikara”. Apana vata is a subtype of Vata dosha which is responsible for the downward elimination of urine, faces, flatus, child birth and menstrual blood. Apana vata Obstruction causes retrograde menstruation and leads to the accumulation or movement of endometrial tissue to settle in the extra uterine surfaces like the fallopian tubes and pelvic cavity. Often associated with severe pain and scanty menstruation are due to aggravated vata, excessive bleeding and burning sensation due to associated pitta dosha and heaviness, lethargy and slimy mucus bleeding with clots is due to associated aggravated Kapha dosha. Although both physical and mental factors are responsible for the Vata aggravation, mental stress is one among the major responsible factors for the Apana Vata Vikara. Factors such as delayed conceptions (delayed marriage), consuming too much cold, dry, rough, pungent, astringent and bitter substances, excess consumption of raw foods, excessive travelling, substance abuse, excessive physical activity, travelling and suppression of 13 different vegas (Involuntary functions such as hunger,thirst, tears, urination, defecation, sneezing, farting etc. may cause aggravation of Vata in the body. Most of us tend to suppress these ‘vegas’(urges) in our day to day life situations.Because of these ‘vega dharan’( suppression of urges), the flow of apanavata gets disturbed which also controls the proper menstrual flow.

Surgical treatment like Endometriosis excision surgery may be needed definitely ( Consult a Napro Obgyn ) for removing the lesions . Napro surgeons use (Near-contact approach")a high powered camera which will be mounted on the end of the laparoscope to allow for visualization of very small endometrial lesions, which will be completely excised. Many mainstream medicine ObGyn surgeons do not believe these very small implants affect fertility, but we have found that they do. When they are removed, our couples do have success in achieving a pregnancy.

Again post surgery treating root cause of Endometriosis ie correction of imbalance in the pranamaya Kosha, treating estrogen dominance and addressing poor gut health is important.

Calm the nervous system :

Practices like alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana) and three-part breathing (Dirga Pranayama) can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones.

Improve energy flow:

Gentle twists, forward folds, and hip-opening asanas can help to release tension in the pelvic area and encourage the free movement of prana.

The pranamaya kosha and homeopathy share a common ground in their understanding of the body's vital energy. Homeopathic remedies are believed to work on this subtle level of energy, influencing the pranamaya kosha to restore balance and promote healing. For example, a homeopathic practitioner might assess a patient's overall vitality, energy levels, and susceptibility to illness, which are all aspects related to the pranamaya kosha, when selecting a remedy.

Manomaya kosha : meaning "mental sheath" in Sanskrit, is the third of the five koshas (sheaths) in yogic philosophy. It represents the mental and emotional body, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and sensory perceptions. It is the seat of the mind's functions, including thinking, imagination, memory, perception, and judgment. Manomaya kosha is composed of manas (the mind), chitta (the storehouse of impressions and memories)

The Manomaya Kosha sits at a crucial juncture between physical existence and higher wisdom.

Relationship to Other Koshas:

It is interconnected with other koshas. For example, intense negative thoughts in manomaya kosha can affect pranamaya kosha (the energy body) and even annamaya kosha (the physical body).

Importance in Yoga:

Yoga practices, particularly meditation and awareness exercises, can help to purify and balance manomaya kosha, leading to greater mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being.

Purification and Balancing:

Techniques like mantra chanting ,meditation, journaling ,positive thinking, Reading scriptures, mindful behavior, and yogic practices can help to purify and balance manomaya kosha, releasing "knots" of energy tied up in mental complexes and obsessive thoughts.

Alcohol consumption can negatively impact manomaya kosha, which is the mental and emotional layer in the Pancha Kosha system of yoga and Ayurveda. Excessive alcohol use can disrupt mental processes, create imbalances in emotions, and lead to negative psychological patterns, thus affecting the well-being associated with manomaya kosha

In my opinion Psychiatry drugs anti cholinergic drugs and psychdelics can have strong negetive influence on this kosha.

Prolonged or excessive use of these drugs use can lead to imbalances in the Manomaya Kosha, potentially affecting other Koshas negatively (like the Pranamaya Kosha, which governs vital energy) and ultimately impacting overall well-being.

One of the widely-reported side effects of SSRIs is 'blunting', where patients report feeling emotionally dull and no longer finding things as pleasurable as they used to. Between 40-60% of patients taking SSRIs are believed to experience this side effect.

Emotional blunting, characterized by a reduced range of emotional expression and experience, can significantly impact the Manomaya Kosha, the mental and emotional sheath in the yogic framework. This impact manifests as a diminished capacity to feel emotions, difficulty in social interactions, and a loss of interest in activities that once brought joy.

Long term Antipsychotic medications can potentially lead to diminished thinking, particularly in terms of cognitive functions like memory, learning, and processing speed thus hindering mental clarity, emotional stability, and cognitive functions.

176/jnp.13.3.336#:~:text=Feelings%20of%20depersonalization%2Fderealization%2C%20disinhibition,side%20effects%20that%20resemble%20akathisia.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4707562/

Ignorance of one's true nature, deeply affects the Manomaya Kosha (mental sheath) by causing it to be dominated by thoughts, emotions, and desires that are not aligned with reality. This leads to imbalances, stress, and a distorted perception of self and the world.

Ignorance fosters attachment to impermanent things, causing the mind to swing between desires and aversions, resulting in emotional turmoil. The mind, under the influence of ignorance, is constantly bombarded with thoughts and mental chatter, making it difficult to focus and experience inner peace. Ignorance leads to a misidentification of the self with the body, mind, and external objects, causing a distorted view of reality. The constant fluctuations of the mind, fueled by ignorance, lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of dissatisfaction. When the mind is clouded by ignorance, it becomes difficult to make clear and wise decisions, leading to potential negative consequences in various aspects of life.

By understanding the nature of ignorance and cultivating practices that promote self-awareness and wisdom, one can purify the Manomaya Kosha and move towards a more balanced and fulfilling state of being.

Psychosis significantly disrupts the Manomaya Kosha, the mental and emotional layer of consciousness in yogic philosophy, by causing distortions in thought processes, emotional regulation, and overall mental clarity. This disruption can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty managing emotions, all of which impact daily functioning. These disruptions in the Manomaya Kosha can severely impact a person's ability to function in daily life, affecting relationships, work, and self-care. Although i dont deny stress as one of the biggest causes of psychosis. ( stress depletes magnesium and other vital anti stress nutrients ) other important cause is from prescription drugs which can result in psychosis.

https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/nonpsychotropic-medicationinduced-psychosis

Vijnanamaya kosha :

Vijnanamaya kosha acts as a bridge to the deeper, more subtle layers of consciousness, potentially leading to spiritual insights and experiences.

The vijnanamaya kosha, or wisdom sheath, is associated with intellect, decision-making, and discrimination. Those who exist in the Vijnanamaya Kosa will have the capacity to prevent mental modifications by their ability to discern right from wrong and thus prevent it from affecting the Manomaya Kosha and other koshas .

Alcohol, being a substance that impairs cognitive function and judgment, can negatively impact this kosha by clouding one's ability to think clearly and make sound decisions.

Greed , Lust , Anger , Envy , Pride , Laziness and Gluttony all are negatively impacting this Vijnanamaya Kosa thus preventing a person to reach Truth .

How to eliminate greed ?

By doing charity and engaging in selfless service

This obstruction can hinder one's ability to make sound judgments, discern right from wrong, and cultivate true wisdom.

Poor gut health can negatively impact the vijnanamaya kosha, which is associated with wisdom, intuition, and discernment in yogic philosophy. The gut-brain axis highlights a bidirectional communication pathway between the gut and the brain, meaning that imbalances in the gut can influence cognitive and emotional processes associated with the vijnanamaya kosha. Healthy gut and good mental health is required for awakening the wisdom within you.

Hormonal imbalances ( Estrogen dominance) can indirectly affect the Vijnanamaya kosha (wisdom sheath) by impacting the mind and emotions, which in turn influence decision-making and clarity of thought. Specifically, hormonal fluctuations like (PMS and estrogen dominance) can lead to mental and emotional instability, affecting the ability to think clearly and make sound judgments, thus impacting the Vijnanamaya kosha.

There is evidence suggesting progesterone can influence social behaviors and bonding, potentially leading to increased generosity towards close social contacts. Higher progesterone levels, particularly during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, have been associated with greater motivation to bond with others and increased generosity towards those who are socially close. Increased progesterone levels may be associated with greater generosity and a willingness to help others. This connection is thought to be linked to progesterone's role in social bonding and the body's preparation for potential pregnancy. Progesterone can increase deep sleep and potentially prevent sleep disruptions, which can indirectly contribute to overall well-being and relationship satisfaction.

There's evidence suggesting a link between selfless behavior and increased progesterone levels, particularly in women. Specifically, studies have shown that acts of generosity and social closeness can lead to higher progesterone levels. This connection is thought to be related to the role of progesterone in social bonding and affiliative behaviors.

Selflessness is indeed beneficial for the vijnanamaya kosha, the wisdom or intellect sheath in yogic philosophy. Engaging in selfless service, or karma yoga, helps purify this kosha by reducing ego-centric tendencies and fostering a more objective and expansive understanding of oneself and the world.

Vijnanamaya Kosha, the wisdom sheath in yogic philosophy, is closely linked to altruistic behavior.

Reading scriptures can be a valuable practice for enhancing the Vijnanamaya Kosha, which is associated with wisdom, intellect, and discernment. Scriptures offer profound insights, ethical frameworks, and knowledge that can sharpen the intellect and foster self-awareness, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Vijnanamaya Kosha. Scriptures, especially those with philosophical or contemplative content, can be intellectually stimulating, encouraging critical thinking, analysis, and reflection. Authenticity is beneficial for the Vijnanamaya Kosha, which is associated with higher knowledge, understanding, and the discriminative intellect. Cultivating authenticity, which involves aligning one's actions and thoughts with one's true self and values, can lead to greater clarity, insight, and wisdom within this kosha. Authenticity helps you recognize your true values and motivations, which can guide you in making decisions aligned with your inner compass. This reduces the influence of external pressures and ego-driven desires.

Development of Discernment:

Studying scriptures can help individuals develop the ability to discriminate between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and ultimately, to make better decisions based on wisdom.

Cultivating Self-Awareness:

Many scriptures contain teachings about the nature of the self, consciousness, and the human condition. This can lead to greater self-awareness and understanding of one's own thoughts, emotions, and motivations. The Vijnanamaya Kosha is linked to intuition. Being authentic can strengthen this connection, allowing for more accurate and trustworthy guidance from your inner self.

Ethical Guidance:

Scriptures often provide ethical frameworks and moral guidelines that can inform one's actions and behavior, contributing to the development of a more ethical and virtuous character, which is also a part of the Vijnanamaya Kosha.

Inner Peace and Clarity:

By engaging with the profound wisdom found in scriptures, individuals may experience a sense of inner peace, clarity, and stability, which are also characteristics associated with a well-developed Vijnanamaya Kosha.

When the intellect is purified through selflessness, it naturally leads to a more peaceful and balanced state of mind. This inner peace arises from a reduction in mental clutter and a greater sense of clarity and purpose.

• Connecting to Higher Consciousness:

  Through selfless service, individuals can potentially transcend the limitations of the ego and connect with a deeper sense of their true self, moving closer to the blissful state of anandamaya kosha, according to yoga practitioners.

• Deeper Understanding:

  By being authentic, you are more likely to seek genuine understanding rather than superficial knowledge. This can lead to a deeper appreciation of concepts and a greater capacity for insight

  

  .

Anandamaya kosha :

A person who exists in the Anandamaya kosa is the spiritually enlightened one, suffering does not touch such a one. This level of existence is reached by those who practice intense Sadhana ( spiritual practices) and whose awareness resides in the Anandamaya kosa . Anandamaya Kosha, meaning "bliss body" or "sheath of bliss" in Sanskrit, is the fifth and deepest layer of the five koshas (sheaths) in yogic philosophy. It represents the state of pure bliss and is considered the true self or innermost reality.

It is the source of profound joy, happiness, unconditional love and a sense of peace and well-being.

How to connect with Anandamaya Kosha:

Yoga and Meditation:

Yoga practices like Yoga Nidra, and meditation can help access and experience this state.

Selfless Service:

Engaging in selfless service (Seva) can foster a sense of connection to the divine and the blissful state of Anandamaya Kosha.

Bhakti Yoga:

Bhakti yoga, the path of devotion, can lead to experiencing the interconnectedness with all beings and the Divine, fostering a sense of bliss.

Deep Sleep:

Deep sleep is also believed to be a state where the Anandamaya Kosha is primarily active. The Anandamaya kosha is most fully realized in deep, dreamless sleep (sushupti)is believed to be the closest layer to the Atman.

Our ultimate goal of Life is to live in peace , win spiritually and stimulate the universal consciousness within us merging with God. This isn't possible without obeying God's words and right living. It takes immense strength to follow God's words especially in a corrupt world like today's. For this we need to be healthy and fit and should be able to different between right and wrong.

This pungent spice is truly a game-changer. In addition to great taste, ginger provides a wide range of health benefits that you can enjoy in many forms. Here’s what you should know about all the ways ginger can add flavor to your food and support your well-being.

Health Benefits of Ginger ( Zingiber officinale ) :

“One of the hallmarks of organismal aging is the appearance of mitochondrial dysfunction”

Ginger particularly its active component 6-gingerol, can indeed boost mitochondrial functioning, particularly through increasing mitochondrial biogenesis. During aging, mitochondrial function declines. Ginger extract has been shown to increase mitochondrial size and DNA content, and to improve the expression of key genes related to mitochondrial biosynthesis. Furthermore, it may enhance energy production and reduce oxidative stress in cells. I strongly believe that cancer originates from mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic abnormalities, rather than solely from genetic mutations. So you can consider Ginger has Anti cancer activity ? Yes !

I have discussed Anticancer activity of ginger in this article further below .

Respiratory Chain Function:

Ginger extract can improve the activity of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, which is responsible for ATP production through cellular respiration. This means the mitochondria are more efficient at converting food into energy.

Studies have demonstrated that ginger extract can reduce IL-1β-induced oxidative stress and consequent mitochondrial apoptosis.

Ginger is Anti Serotonin : In the gut, serotonin plays a role in triggering the vomiting reflex. Ginger has anti-serotonergic effects, meaning it can block the activity of serotonin receptors. Specifically, gingerol, a compound found in ginger, has been shown to inhibit serotonin receptor activity, particularly in the gut, which may contribute to its antiemetic (anti-nausea) effects. Ginger may also help increase the movement of food through the digestive tract, further contributing to its ability to calm the stomach and reduce nausea. Eating ginger can cut down on fermentation, constipation and other causes of bloating and intestinal gas.

Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV): Several trials have compared ginger and ondansetron for preventing PONV, with some studies suggesting ginger may be equally or more effective. One study found ginger to be superior to ondansetron in reducing the frequency and severity of PONV.

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) :

Ginger has shown promise as an adjunct treatment for CINV, with some trials demonstrating its ability to reduce nausea severity. Experts who work with patients receiving chemo for cancer, say ginger may take the edge off post-treatment nausea, and without some of the side effects of anti-nausea medications.

Pregnancy : For generations, women have praised the power of ginger to ease “morning sickness” and other queasiness associated with pregnancy. Even the American Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology mentions ginger as an acceptable nonpharmaceutical remedy for nausea and vomiting.

Once again I just want to tell you that its better you consult an obgyn before incorporating this into your diet.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S216183132400142X

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) for the treatment and prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis :

.It shows promise in protecting against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) due to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Even.

Pre-clinical studies have shown significant benefits of ginger, curcumin, and Nigella sativa oil in reducing the severity of intestinal injury and markers of oxidative injury in preterm rat pup models of NEC.

Note this is still under research and kindly do not take this as medical advice.

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/5/1726

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30005955/

Ginger has a speculative role in neuropsychiatry, such as in the dampening of dementia mechanisms :

Ginger can improve cognition, attention, thinking speed, and memory in humans.

Ginger has therapeutic properties against diseases affecting the nervous system such as brain tumors, stroke, neurosis, depression, insomnia, psychiatric disorders, and dementia

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8470323/

Improved mood: Ginger may have a calming effect, which can reduce stress and consequently lower cortisol levels. So sipping on ginger tea can be a soothing way to manage stress.

Role of Ginger in Alzheimer's and Parkinsons disease (PD):

AMPK/PGC1α pathway plays an important role in PD, therefore, ginger extracts and 6-gingerol could specifically improve mitochondrial function in PD via the activation of the AMPK/PGC1α axis. As above-mentioned, ginger may inhibit apoptosis of enteric dopaminergic neurons by restoring cleaved caspase-3 levels.

Alzheimer's disease : Some studies suggest that the active ingredients present in ginger may have the potential to alleviate Aβ-induced neurotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways

In AD rat models of ginger root extract reverses behavioral dysfunction and reduces AD-like symptoms. In an in vitro study ginger extract increases cell survival in AD rat hippocampus and prevents formation of destructive oligomers. In biochemistry, an oligomer usually refers to a macromolecular complex. They give rise to Alzheimer's disease, and are small enough to spread easily around the brain, killing neurons and interacting harmfully with other molecules. How oligomers are formed and why is still not known.

Theoretical simulations of the mechanical process suggest that ginger acts as an inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and is as effective as donepezil. It increases neurogenesis, raises BDNF levels, enhances cognitive function, and helps in reducing amyloid beta plaque for those with Alzheimer's.

Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) is a major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is strongly associated with the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides in the brain, a hallmark of AD pathology. ApoE4 exacerbates Aβ aggregation, reduces its clearance, and influences the development of amyloid plaques, which are characteristic of AD.

Ginger extract inhibits beta-amyloid peptide-induced cytokine and chemokine expression in cultured THP-1 monocytes.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9578130/#:~:text=AMPK%2FPGC1%CE%B1%20pathway%20plays%20an,restoring%20cleaved%20caspase%2D3%20levels.

What I find really interesting about both Cucurmin and Ginger is that how they modulate Bax Bcl2 ratio ! Ginger as well as Cucurmin has both pro Apoptotic and Anti Apoptotic effects .

What is Bax Bcl2 ratio ?

The Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, a measure of the relative expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, is a crucial determinant of cell fate, particularly in relation to apoptosis (programmed cell death).

The specific effects of-gingerol on the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio depend on the cell type, the nature of the stress, and the concentration of-gingerol. For instance, in some cancer cells,-gingerol can induce apoptosis by increasing Bax and decreasing Bcl-2 (as in case of tumor cells ), while in other contexts, it can protect cells from stress by increasing Bcl-2 and decreasing Bax ( like in case of Alzheimer's)

In summary,-gingerol's influence on the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio is not a one-way street. It can either increase the ratio by inducing apoptosis in certain cells, or decrease the ratio by protecting cells from stress in other contexts. What amazes me is how Mother Nature's gifts like Ginger and Cucurmin know where to trigger apoptosis and where not to.

The ability of curcumin and ginger compounds to induce apoptosis by has led to its exploration as a potential anticancer agent, particularly in cases where tumor cells are resistant to other treatments

.

For example, in one study, ginger polysaccharide UGP1 suppressed human colon cancer growth by inducing apoptosis via the regulation of p53, caspase-3, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio-dependent pathways.

ResearchGate showed that ginger extract significantly decreased the expression of Bcl-2 mRNA and protein while increasing Bax expression, leading to a higher Bax/Bcl-2 ratio.

At the same time in Alzheimer's and dementia Ginger’s anti-apoptotic action ([6]-gingerol ) could be useful to preventing neurodegeneration.

Potential for Liver Cancer Prevention and other Hepatoprotective effects :

Some research suggests ginger may have a protective effect against liver cancer by inhibiting cell growth and inducing apoptosis. Ginger has been shown to protect the liver against damage caused by certain substances, such as those found in alcohol. It contains antioxidants like gingerol and zingerone, which can help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage in the liver.

Ginger has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help the body process sugar more effectively and reduce fat accumulation in the liver. Ginger can improve glucose and lipid metabolism in muscle cells, which supports better energy utilization and mitochondrial function.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332220312956

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10701234/

Ginger is Anti cancer :

Ginger extract selectively caused the death of senescent cells without affecting proliferating cells.

Among the ginger extract components, gingerenone A showed promising senolytic properties and selectively eliminated cultured human senescent cells.

Researchers from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) in Baltimore show that a compound from ginger extract called gingerenone A is a promising therapeutic.

Gingerenone A and 6-shogaol were identified as active components in ginger extract, with gingerenone A showing higher selectivity for eliminating senescent cells compared to a known senolytic cocktail, dasatinib plus quercetin. The research was published in the journal PLoS One on March 29, 2022.

Radioprotective effects of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger):

Ginger exhibits radioprotective properties due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help combat radiation-induced damage. Lipid peroxidation, a process where fatty acids are damaged, can be exacerbated by radiation. Ginger extracts have been shown to inhibit lipid peroxidation and protect against this damage. Ginger extracts have also been shown to reduce DNA damage, including DNA oxidation and chromosomal abnormalities, caused by radiation. Some studies suggest that certain ginger components, like zingerone, may selectively protect normal tissues from radiation-induced damage, while also being effective against tumors.

Preclinical studies have shown that ginger and its components, such as dehydrozingerone and zingerone, can protect against radiation-induced sickness and mortality in laboratory animals.

Ginger extracts have been shown to reduce the severity of radiation-induced effects, such as bone marrow syndrome and gastrointestinal syndrome, in mice. Studies have also demonstrated that ginger can protect against radiation-induced damage in various tissues, including the kidneys and bone marrow.

Ginger for Migraine :

Ginger has long been recommended as an effective home remedy for the acute treatment of migraine, relieving both headache and the associated nausea. One suggested recipe is to stir half a teaspoon of ground ginger into a glass of water and to drink this “ginger juice”; another is to drink a hot tea made from a teaspoon of freshly ground ginger.

One meta-analysis (pooled N = 227) found that, relative to placebo, ginger was associated with a higher proportion of patients who were pain free 2 hours after treatment (risk ratio [RR], 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–3.09; 2 RCTs). In this meta-analysis, relative to placebo, ginger reduced the risk of migraine-related nausea and vomiting (RR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.30–0.77; 3 RCTs) and was not associated with an increased risk of adverse events (RR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.46–1.41; 3 RCTs )

Andrade C. Ginger for migraine. J Clin Psychiatry. 2021;82(6):21f14325.

https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.21f14325

Pain Relief: Ginger can help relieve pain from menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other types of pain. Although treating the root cause is very important but for acute pain relief ginger is definitely helpful.

Ginger nature's Antihistamine : Ginger is a natural compound with anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce symptoms of allergies and histamine release.

Some studies have shown ginger extract to be effective in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR), with results comparable to those of traditional antihistamines like loratadine.

Ginger for sore throat:

• Anti-inflammatory: Gingerol can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, which can ease coughing.

• Antimicrobial: Ginger can help fight infections that may be causing the cough.

• Soothes throat: Ginger can help soothe a sore throat, by reducing phlegm which is often a cause of coughing. It can help thin and loosen the expectoration, making it easier to clear from the airways .

• Relaxes airways: Ginger can help relax airway muscles, making it easier to breathe and reducing the urge to cough.

Home remedies : This is how I personally incorporate ginger in my routine lifestyle.

Chew fresh ginger: Chew a piece of fresh ginger, optionally sprinkled with salt, to help soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Ginger and honey: Mix crushed ginger with honey and drink it to help relieve coughs and sore throats.

Ginger role in Asthma :

Asthma is characterized by bronchoconstriction, a tightening of the bronchial tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs. Bronchodilating medications called beta-agonists (β -agonists) are among the most common types of asthma medications and work by relaxing the airway smooth muscle (ASM) tissues. A study published in ATS Journals by Columbia University Medical Center found that specific ginger compounds (6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 6-shogaol) potentiated beta-agonist-induced relaxation of airway smooth muscle.

“Asthma has become more prevalent in recent years, but despite an improved understanding of what causes asthma and how it develops, during the past 40 years few new treatment agents have been approved for targeting asthma symptoms,” said lead author Elizabeth Townsend, PhD, post-doctoral research fellow in the Columbia University Department of Anesthesiology. “In our study, we demonstrated that purified component s of ginger can work synergistically with β - agonists to relax ASM.”

Ginger's active components, particularly 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 6-shogaol, have been shown to enhance the relaxation effect of beta-agonists on airway smooth muscle (ASM). This potentiation involves mechanisms like PDE4D inhibition and modulation of cytoskeletal regulatory proteins. In essence, ginger compounds can improve the effectiveness of bronchodilators used in asthma treatment.

Ginger lowers blood pressure : Some studies suggest that ginger may help lower blood pressure by blocking calcium channels, which are important for regulating blood vessel constriction. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials found that ginger supplementation may reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in younger adults and during shorter follow-up periods.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972845/

Studies suggest that ginger root extract can inhibit the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Ginger has been shown to decrease the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key enzyme in the RAAS pathway.

Ginger is Nature's Anti Atherosclerotic agent : Ginger extracts and compounds like gingerol and shogaol have been shown to reduce macrophage-mediated oxidation of LDL, reduce the uptake of oxidized LDL by macrophages, and decrease the oxidative state of LDL. These effects lead to reduced cellular cholesterol accumulation and foam cell formation, which are hallmarks of early atherosclerosis. Ginger extract consumption can thus inhibit LDL oxidation and aggregation, and reduce the development of aortic atherosclerotic lesions in animal models.

Gingerols and Shogaols

:

These compounds, found in both fresh and dried ginger, have been shown to inhibit NO production. Ginger extracts likely exert their anti-inflammatory effects by targeting the production of NO and other inflammatory factors like TNF-α. studies indicate that ginger root extract can inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production. Specifically, ResearchGate findings suggest that ginger extracts can reduce NO levels in the presence of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a substance that triggers inflammation and NO production. Additionally, ScienceDirect.com reports show that certain gingerols and shogaols can inhibit NO production in microglia cells.

Studies suggest that ginger root extract can help decrease cortisol levels, particularly when it comes to stress and inflammation. Various compounds in ginger , like gingerol, that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help regulate the stress response and reduce cortisol production.

Is ginger anti-inflammatory?

Yes. Ginger contains over 400 natural compounds, and some of these are anti-inflammatory. More studies will help us determine if eating ginger has any impact on conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or respiratory inflammation.

Ginger can modulate inflammatory pathways, suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines (like IL-6 and TNF-α), and reduce oxidative stress.

In a 12-week randomized controlled trial, 70 participants who had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) received a daily dose of 1,200 mg ginger or placebo. Results showed that the ginger group had a significant increase in the expression of FOXP3 genes, which help regulate the immune system, and a considerable decrease in pro-inflammatory genes.

A study comparing a daily dose of 1,500 mg ginger to placebo in 66 patients with active RA reported that the ginger group had a significant reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP, a marker of inflammation) and in interleukin (IL)-1, an inflammatory protein targeted by arthritis drugs like anakinra (Kineret) and canakinumab (Ilaris).

Nature's blood thinner: Ginger is a natural blood thinner, meaning it can help prevent blood clots from forming. This is due to the presence of gingerols and salicylates, which have anti-platelet and anticoagulant effects. While ginger's blood-thinning properties can be beneficial, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks, especially for those taking blood-thinning medications or having bleeding disorders.

A word of caution : Taking ginger and niacin together might increase the risk of bleeding in some individuals, especially those already on medications that slow blood clotting.

Over 60 drug interactions are reported with ginger, and may include anticoagulants like warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners and pain medicines like morphine. Always consult your healthcare before starting ginger supplements.

This article is meant for information purposes only. It should not be considered as medical advice. Please speak to your health care practitioner before you take ginger .

Pregnenolone is made in the inner membrane of the mitochondria in response to sunlight. In the michtochondria of the living cell , the active Thyroid hormone, LDL cholesterol, vitamin A ( in the presence of morning sunshine) are used to produce youth associated substance pregnenolone. Pregnenolone is used in the Synthesis of further important hormones like DHEA and progesterone. These substances are tend to support sufficient cell respiration and when their production is interfered with , a higher functioning of adaptive stress results.

Gut Steroidogenesis:

The gut microbiome has the capacity to synthesize steroid hormones, including pregnenolone through a process called gut steroidogenesis.Specific gut bacteria possess enzymes that can convert cholesterol into pregnenolone and further metabolize it into other steroid hormones like progesterone and allopregnanolone.The ability of the gut microbiome to produce and modify neurosteroids highlights the complex interplay between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis.

So what causes Pregnenolone Defiency ?

Genetic mutations, Dysfunctional gut-brain axis , Nutrient defiency, Chronic stress , Certain medications and Ageing are the most important causes which I'm going to discuss here .

Low Levels of Cholesterol, T3 or vitamin A can lead to decrease in pregnenolone synthesis :

Low levels of blood cholesterol and Low levels of Vit A can contribute to low pregnenolone levels because they are the raw materials needed for Pregnenolone synthesis. Some drugs like Bile acid sequesterants and cyclosporine can decrease vitamin A. So speak to your health care practitioner if you need to supplement accordingly.

Hypothyroidism : A deficiency in thyroid hormone can impair the synthesis of other hormones, including pregnenolone, which is subsequently converted into progesterone.

Healthy Mitochondrial function is necessary for the production of pregnenolone, and any disturbance in this can lead to a reduction in pregnenolone synthesis.

Pregnenolone is a key steroid hormone precursor, and its production is heavily reliant on mitochondrial function, particularly the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone by the CYP11A1 enzyme located on the inner mitochondrial membrane. Disruptions in mitochondrial function can hinder this process, leading to reduced pregnenolone levels. Mitochondrial dysfunction, caused by various factors like increased membrane permeability, swelling, or impaired membrane potential, can disrupt the entire process.Reduced ATP levels can negatively impact pregnenolone synthesis due to the role of ATP in the mitochondrial processes involved in steroidogenesis. Mitochondrial function, including ATP production, is directly linked to the production of pregnenolone.

Sometimes some drugs toxicity can as well disrupt the process of cellular respiration within mitochondria.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6628177/

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2023.1123928/full

Gut Dysbiosis : an impaired gut-brain axis can potentially contribute to pregnenolone deficiency. A leaky gut (impaired gut barrier function) can allow inflammatory substances to enter the bloodstream, which can further disrupt hormonal balance and potentially lead to pregnenolone deficiency. Dysbiosis can alter the production of these metabolites, potentially impacting pregnenolone levels. Most of the things that damage Michtochondria also damage gut health.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jne.13471

Magnesium defiency : Magnesium deficiency can affect cholesterol metabolism, potentially leading to imbalances that could indirectly influence pregnenolone production. It is a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in metabolic pathways, including those related to steroid hormone synthesis. It may indirectly affect pregnenolone synthesis by influencing the activity of enzymes involved in cholesterol metabolism and steroid hormone pathways.

Vitamin C deficiency can lead to pregnenolone deficiency.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) does play a role in the synthesis of pregnenolone. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, a key step in steroidogenesis, the production of steroid hormones. Specifically, it is involved in the desmolase and hydroxylase reactions that lead to pregnenolone formation. Vitamin C is found in high concentrations in the adrenal cortex, where pregnenolone synthesis occurs.

Zinc deficiency :

Zinc deficiency can reduce pregnenolone production because zinc is a crucial cofactor for enzymes involved in the steroidogenic pathway, including the synthesis of pregnenolone. Specifically, zinc is needed for the activity of steroidogenic acute regulatory (STAR) protein and cytochrome P450scc (P450scc), both of which are involved in the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone in the mitochondria.

Selenium deficiency can contribute to low pregnenolone levels : Selenium deficiency can disrupt the function of HPA axis, leading to reduced hormone production.

Genes🧬:

Mutations in genes like STAR and CYP11A1 can disrupt the synthesis pathway, leading to a range of clinical manifestations. Certain forms of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), specifically Lipoid CAH or CLAH, can cause a deficiency in pregnenolone production. This is because CLAH is characterized by a defect in the enzyme necessary to convert cholesterol into pregnenolone, the precursor to all other steroid hormones.

Medications : Certain medications, such as oral contraceptive pills ,statins and corticosteroids ( can decrease T3 ), might interfere with pregnenolone production . Talk to your health care practitioner if you think your medications are influencing hormone levels and what can be done accordingly so as how to replenish your pregnenolone .

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9627912/

Ageing :

Pregnenolone levels begin to decline as a part of ageing process. Pregnenolone levels begin to drop in early 30s and this is when starting signs of hormonal imbalances appear. The decline in pregnenolone becomes more noticeable in 40 to 50 yrs age group . This period coincides with perimenopause and menopause in women where symptoms like fatigue, loss of libido ,brain fog become apparent . It can contribute to lower levels of Progesterone, Testosterone and DHEA exacerbating menopausal symptoms. By the time most people reach the age of 75, they have 60 percent less pregnenolone in the body.

Excess of Stress : Upon stress, the elevated synthesis of cortisol may reduce (“steal”) the pregnenolone available for the synthesis of down-stream hormones other than cortisol.

What is Pregnenolone Steal Syndrome ?Pregnenolone steal syndrome is a theoretical condition where due to prolonged stress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is activated  leading to an increased cortisol production, "stealing" pregnenolone from other steroid hormones, particularly progesterone. This results in a deficiency of those other hormones, even though pregnenolone is a precursor to them all.It leads to :

-Progesterone (leading to PMS, irregular cycles, or miscarriage risk)

-Testosterone (leading to low libido, poor muscle tone, fatigue)

-Estrogen balance (may promote estrogen dominance)

Chronic stress affects every system of your body!

We need pregnenolone, and if it is taken to produce cortisol it should be replaced.  Chronic stress, inflammation, and pregnenolone steal syndrome are common underlying causes of PMS, difficult perimenopause and transition into menopause, infertility, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In response to stress, our adrenal glands begin to increase cortisol production in order to help the body cope.  Pregnenolone is considered the “grandparent” hormone because it helps to produce many other hormones, but in response to stress, it is channeled into producing cortisol rather than hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and aldosterone.

Pregnenolone plays a critical role in maintaining overall well-being. It influences various bodily functions. It impacts everything from your mental health to your libido.

• Hormone Balance

• Energy Production

• Stress Response

• Cognitive Function

• Mood Regulation

• Immune Health

• Libido

Low Pregnenolone in Asthma:

Studies have shown that asthmatic individuals may have lower levels of pregnenolone compared to non-asthmatic individuals. Pregnenolone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, and its lower levels in asthmatic individuals could contribute to increased inflammation in the airways.

Pregnenolone, a neurosteroid, is involved in various biological processes, including immune function and inflammation. Some studies suggest it can suppress T helper cell proliferation and B cell class switching, which could be beneficial in conditions like asthma where immune dysregulation plays a role.

In asthma, Th2 cells are activated in response to allergens or other triggers, leading to the production of key cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. These cytokines drive various inflammatory processes in the airways, including eosinophilia, airway hyperresponsiveness, goblet cell hyperplasia, and IgE-mediated inflammation. Th2 cell activation and cytokine production contribute to the hallmark features of asthma, such as airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and airway remodeling.

Pregnenolone, a neurosteroid, can suppress T helper cells, particularly T helper 2 (Th2) cells. Th2 cells, which are involved in type 2 immune responses, synthesize and secrete pregnenolone, and this steroid then inhibits Th cell proliferation and B cell immunoglobulin class switching. This suppression of Th2 cell activity is thought to contribute to the restoration of immune homeostasis. By inhibiting Th2 cell activity, pregnenolone helps to restore a balance in the immune system, preventing overactive immune responses. Also Pregnenolone's ability to promote the degradation of key inflammatory proteins, like TLR2 and TIRAP, could contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Did you know Low pregnenolone levels can increase risk of glaucoma ?

Low pregnenolone levels, a precursor hormone to many sex hormones, may be associated with an increased risk of glaucoma, particularly in women.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Pregnenolone :

Here are common indicators that your levels might be depleted:

• Fatigue

• Brain Fog

• Declining Concentration

• Mood Swings

• Decrease in Libido

• Sleep Disturbances

• Joint and muscle Pain

• Increased Inflammation and autoimmunity

• Dry Skin

• Difficulty in combating stress

• Hormonal imbalances manifesting as menstrual irregularities and heavy bleeding

It's not just about Pregnenolone supplementation. We have to make our own pregnenolone for which we need healthy michtochondria and healthy gut . Yes under circumstances of illness pregnenolone supplementation is very helpful ( under strict supervision of a doctor ) .We still are not aware of perhaps what all substances michtochondria produce ( we just know 1%) and gut microbiome and past few years I have noticed that we are ageing faster and root cause lies in dysfunctional michtochondria and gut dysbiosis…

Hence we need to focus more now on improving Health of michtochondrial and gut health to boost our michtochondrial functioning. I'll soon write more on regenerative medicine approach towards michtochondria and gut health .

Wishing you Truthful Thursday 🌱

Disclaimer : This article is not intended to provide any medical advice. Only for information purposes.

Pregnenolone’s role in Tardive dyskinesia :

Pregnenolone, a neurosteroid, has shown promise in animal studies as a potential treatment for tardive dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder caused by long-term use of certain antipsychotic medications. Neurosteroids are substances that occur naturally in the brain and help regulate and modulate the activity of brain cells.

Haloperidol-induced dyskinesia :

Research in rat models of TD induced by haloperidol (a common antipsychotic) has shown that pregnenolone and its metabolite allopregnanolone may help attenuate or reduce the symptoms of orofacial dyskinesia. Pregnenolone exhibits neuroprotective properties, which could be beneficial in managing the long-term effects of antipsychotics that can lead to tardive dyskinesia.

Pregnenolone may exert its effects by influencing neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and GABA, which are known to be involved in TD. Specifically, pregnenolone may modulate GABA receptors. GABA hypofunction is a proposed mechanism in TD. Pregnenolone through its metabolites like Allopregnanolone , may help attenuate or reduce the symptoms of orofacial dyskinesia. Allopregnanolone, increases GABAergic activity, which can help regulate neuronal excitability .It also promotes neurogenesis, decreases apoptosis (cell death), and has neuroprotective effects.

L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease model : Studies in rats with 6-OHDA-lesions (a model of Parkinson's disease) have shown that pregnenolone can counter L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia without affecting the beneficial motor improvements caused by L-DOPA. This suggests pregnenolone may have a specific antidyskinetic effect. Pregnenolone may have antidyskinetic properties, potentially by influencing dopamine receptors and other neurochemical pathways involved in movement control.

In previous studies, the investigators demonstrated that inhibiting an enzyme involved in the synthesis of a neurosteroid called 5 alpha reductase (5AR) dampens involuntary movement, or dyskinesia, in models of Parkinson’s that only affects one side of the body. The researchers are now trying to understand which specific neurosteroid(s) is responsible for the observed protection from dyskinesia. They found that inhibiting this enzyme results in a specific accumulation of the neurosteroid pregnenolone, which has been shown to have therapeutic properties in dopamine-related diseases.

Thus pregnenolone may play a role in mitigating abnormal movements associated with both of these conditions.

Pregnenolone for OCD : Pregnenolone has been explored as a potential adjunct therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Studies suggest that pregnenolone by modulating GABA and NMDA receptors may enhance exposure therapy outcomes in OCD patients, particularly for those who are initially reluctant to expose themselves to anxiety-evoking stimuli.

Pregnenolone as a novel therapeutic candidate in schizophrenia and mental disorders : https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21756978/

Pregnenolone, shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for schizophrenia, particularly for reducing negative symptoms and cognitive deficits.

Research published in 2018 adds that taking pregnenolone for one month appears to provide benefits for individuals experiencing their first schizophrenic episode who have not yet started antipsychotic treatment. Studies suggest that pregnenolone may work by modulating NMDA receptors and GABA systems, which are implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. NMDA receptor hypofunction is a key feature in the neurobiology of schizophrenia. Allopregnanolone, modulate NMDA receptor activity by affecting glutamate release. Allopregnanolone enhances GABAergic neurotransmission. GABA dysregulation is also implicated in schizophrenia.

https://trial.medpath.com/clinical-trial/b245c5eaecf65f60/addition-pregnenolone-l-theanine-antipsychotic-treatment-schizophrenia

Allopregnanolone has neuroprotective effects, increasing neurogenesis, decreasing apoptosis and inflammation, and modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Allopregnanolone enhances the function of GABA receptors, specifically the GABAA receptor, in the brain. It acts as a positive allosteric modulator, meaning it binds to the receptor at a site other than the GABA binding site and increases the receptor's sensitivity to GABA. This enhancement of GABA-mediated signaling leads to anxiolytic, anti-stress, and antidepressant effects. This means GABA can more easily bind to the receptor, leading to a greater influx of chloride ions and a stronger inhibitory effect.

Anxiolytic effects: By reducing neuronal excitability, allopregnanolone can help to relieve anxiety.

Anti-stress effects: Allopregnanolone can modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a key stress response system, and help to regulate stress responses.

Antidepressant effects: The enhancement of GABAergic signaling has been linked to mood regulation, and allopregnanolone deficiency has been implicated in the development of mood disorders.

Allopregnanolone has also been known to decrease hippocampal volume loss

It Promotes myelination, increases neuron fiber density and increases brain connectivity. Pregnenolone and its derivative allopregnanolone have been linked to improved sleep, potentially by modulating GABA receptors and influencing sleep cycles. Pregnenolone directly suppresses the hypothalamus’ initiation of the stress cascade, and even lowers the amygdala’s emotional stress response.

Pregnenolone directly affects other substances in the human body, such as MT-associated proteins (MAPs). MAP defects have been linked with major depressive disorder (MDD) and taking pregnenolone may positively affect MAP levels, potentially helping to ease depressive symptoms.

A recent study of 27 depressed patients found that their cerebrospinal fluid (which circulates through the brain and spinal cord) was significantly lower in pregnenolone than in 10 non-depressed volunteers. Cerebrospinal fluid levels are generally believed to accurately reflect levels of various biochemicals in the brain.

Pregnenolone dosing is very important. Large doses can hyper stimulate HPA axis and can trigger mania.

It can cause confusion , anxiety, euphoria, irregular heart rythm, irritability, headache, increased appetite, sometimes paradoxically insomnia and upset stomach . Dosing is very very important . I expirenced euphoria at a dose of 50 mg / day. So I reduced the dose to 50 mg per week and found it beneficial.

Also it's important if you have history of seizures or epilepsy, I would recommend to avoid taking supplements.

Pregnenolone in smaller doses has shown to have anti convulsant effects but large doses can have pro convulsant effects.

Pregnenolone, specifically pregnenolone sulfate (PS), can have proconvulsant (seizure-inducing) effects in high concentrations, particularly in the hippocampus. While PS is an endogenous neurosteroid, it's unlikely that its normal levels trigger seizures on their own. Conversely, allopregnanolone, another neurosteroid derived from progesterone, generally has anticonvulsant properties.

Progesterone, through its conversion to neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, can reduce seizure susceptibility.

Allopregnanolone is a neurosteroid derived from progesterone that enhances GABA-A receptor function, leading to inhibition of neuronal excitability. It is generally considered anticonvulsant and may help to reduce seizure susceptibility.

It's always best to talk to your mental health practitioner when you are taking this supplement because he/ she may give you appropriate dose so that it doesn't harm you and benefit you.

Chemo-protective action of Pregnenolone :

A major determinant of the body’s ability to detoxify poisonous chemicals, such as pesticides, medical drugs, industrial contaminants and auto exhaust, is the health and effectiveness of the Cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver. This is one of the most broad-spectrum, universal detoxifying enzyme systems possessed by all mammals, including humans.

Moderate levels of cortisol (the state­of-siege anti-stress hormone) promote the activity of this detox system. However, larger amounts of cortisol (which is all-too-often over-produced by our adrenal glands due to aging or prolonged stress) degrade the P450 system’s anti-toxin effects. Although pregnenolone does not affect the rate of synthesis of the enzymes in the P450 system, it does stabilise these enzymes against the digestive activity of liver proteolytic enzymes, which would tend to break down the P450 enzymes. Pregnenolone thus increases overall P450 detox enzyme power by promoting conservation of existing P450 enzymes.

Pregnenolone derivatives also possess anticancer activity against lung cancer, cervical cancer and breast cancer :

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jccs.202200040#:~:text=Pregnenolone%20derivatives%20also%20possess%20anticancer,%2C%205%5D%20and%20breast%20cancer.&text=In%20continuation%20of%20our%20research,of%20Heck%20and%20Steglich%20reaction.

Low pregnenolone can also be associated with fatigue, reduced mobility, joint and muscle pain, and dry skin.

Pregnenolone in skin disorders : It is also is used for skin disorders including psoriasis and scleroderma. Pregnenolone opposes skin-aging stress hormones and regulates the immune system.

Low pregnenolone levels can contribute to dry skin :

Progesterone, which is synthesized from pregnenolone, stimulates the production of sebum (oil) in the skin. When pregnenolone levels are low, this can lead to reduced sebum production and consequently, drier skin.

Pregnenolone is involved in the production of skin cells and can help maintain skin hydration and elasticity thus giving you young looks .

Pregnenolone acetate has been reported to reduce wrinkles in elderly women when applied in the form of a 0.5% topical cream, effects which were suggested to be due to improved hydration of the skin.

Anti-arthritis effects : In the past, pregnenolone was explored as a potential treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, including ankylosing spondylitis. Some studies suggested it could reduce pain, muscle spasms, and improve joint movement and induce remission.

During the 1940’s, pregnenolone was used successfully as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. A 1950 review article on pregnenolone reported on a study by Henderson and colleagues which found that 300mg pregnenolone/day for 40 days resulted in a significant decrease in joint pain, tenderness and spasticity, with improved strength and range of motion. Another study by Freeman and colleagues, with 64 patients, used 500mg of pregnenolone daily for periods of 2 to 30 weeks. Twenty-four patients showed striking improvements and 20 showed minor improvements.

Unfortunately, the advent of the wonder drug cortisone (Cortisol) in the 1950’s caused pregnenolone to be passed by for arthritis treatment, since pregnenolone’s results were much slower to manifest. Coincidentally, pregnenolone couldn’t be patented by the drug companies whereas synthetic variants of cortisone could be (and were) patented. By the time the nightmarish side-effects of excessive cortisone were widely known by the medical community in the 1960’s (these side effects could include psychotic breakdown, adrenal failure and even death), pregnenolone had been completely forgotten.

Word of caution: I believe that pregnenolone supplementation, like DHEA, should be undertaken under the supervision of a health practitioner acquainted with its use as in high doses it may cause undesirable side effects like irritability, anxiety and confusion as I previously discussed.

While I generally don't treat patients of arthritis as it is not my subject topic ,I strongly recommend my good friend Dr. Ahmad Malik. He is an expert in dealing with patients of arthritis.

The Antimicrobial potential of Pregnenolone :

Pregnenolone known for its hormone balancing benefits may also provide a new layer of protection by keeping bacteria at bay.

pregnenolone could be a natural Antimicrobial agent with potential to help fight bacterial infections especially when Antibiotics don't work. We need more research to explore new ways to boost protection from harmful bacteria, especially for those with weakened immune system or antibiotic resistance concerns .

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166354215001886

Pregnenolone acetate has been reported to have some success in treating nocardiosis, a bacterial form of mycetoma, according to a report in the Archives of Dermatology in 1953.

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/523484

Low levels of pregnenolone may increase the risk of fungal as well as bacterial infections by weakening the immune system's ability to fight off infections. Studies suggest that cutaneous warts, including genital warts, are more prevalent and severe when pregnenolone levels are low.

Research suggests that pregnenolone can lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a marker of inflammation. In studies, pregnenolone has been shown to decrease inflammation and improve various aspects of immune function.

Low levels of pregnenolone may increase the risk of autoimmune diseases

Several studies suggest a link between low pregnenolone levels and increased susceptibility or exacerbation of autoimmune diseases. For example, neuroinflammatory diseases, where inflammation in the nervous system is a key feature, are often associated with reduced pregnenolone levels, highlighting its role in neuroprotection.

Pregnenolone can influence the immune system by promoting the degradation of molecules involved in inflammation, such as TIRAP and TLR2/4. It also has anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6.

Disclaimer : This article is not medical advice . This article is only meant for information purposes only.

It is converted directly into DHEA and/or progesterone. DHEA converts to testosterone and oestrogens; progesterone converts to oestrogens, cortisol, and aldosterone. It is this succession of conversions that makes human life possible. Without pregnenolone, there can be no human steroid hormone production.

Like many health-promoting hormones, levels of pregnenolone drop with age.

Dr Eugene Roberts, a pioneer in hormone research, believes that the age-related drop in pregnenolone is as dramatic as the drop in DHEA. At 75, our bodies typically make 60 percent less pregnenolone than at age 35. This is a point of great concern, considering pregnenolone’s numerous protective, health-promoting properties.

Pregnenolone seems to be a natural antidote to the dark side of cortisol which tend to manifest ever more with ageing and chronic stress.

Natural pregnenolone is present in young people of both sexes at a very high concentration, and one reason for the large amount produced in youth is that it is one of our basic defenses against the harmful side effects that an imbalance of even our natural hormones can produce. In excess, natural cortisone or estrogen can be dangerous, but when there is an abundance of pregnenolone, their side effects are prevented or minimized.

In a healthy young person or animal, taking even a large dose of pregnenolone has no hormone-like or drug-like action at all. It is unique in this way. But if the animal or person is under stress, and producing more cortisone than usual, taking pregnenolone causes the cortisone to come down to the normal level. After the age of 40 or 45, it seems that everyone lives in a state of continuous "stress," just as a normal part of aging. This coincides with the body's decreased ability to produce an abundance of pregnenolone.

Dr Ray Peat

Cortisol neutralizing Power of Pregnenolone: Small amounts of cortisol is essential for life and promote health. Due to chronic stress and ageing our adrenal glands often over produce cortisol.

The production of pregnenolone and its metabolites like DHEA, declines in aging, while the production of stress steroids like cortisol continue to rise.

The ratio of DHEA/Cortisol is one of the best predictors of disease and mortality, and declines with aging.

The HPA axis is a key stress response system. When stressed, the hypothalamus releases CRH, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release ACTH. ACTH then stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Chronic stress, early-life stress, and other factors can disrupt the normal functioning of the HPA axis, leading to dysregulation. HPA axis dysfunction, particularly when leading to high cortisol levels, is a significant concern due to its association with a wide range of health problems, including mental health issues, metabolic disorders, and immune system dysfunction. Some of them include :

• Accelerated skin ageing and detoriation

• Impaired wound healing, poor skin quality and excessive scar tissue

• Damage to structure and function of mid brain specially memory

• Depression and lack of empathy for others. It can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate. It can also contribute to anxiety and irritability.

• Excess fluid retention and puffy flabby skin

• High cortisol can disrupt digestion and lead to digestive problems like indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

• Cortisol can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.

• Cortisol can contribute to acne by affecting the skin's natural oil production. Cortisol can also break down collagen, the protein that gives skin its strength, leading to thinner skin and easier bruising.

• High cortisol levels can break down muscle tissue, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. It can lead to weight gain, especially in the abdomen and face, due to increased appetite and the breakdown of muscle tissue.

• Poor quality sleep

Research suggests pregnenolone might act on specific receptors within the hypothalamus, influencing the activity of CRH neurons. It could also affect the sensitivity of CRH neurons to other signals, reducing their overall activity.

Thus Pregnenolone INHIBITS the release of CRH, the hypothalamic precursor of cortisol, targeting stress at the most basic biological root cause.

Pregnenolone may help normalize the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is responsible for regulating cortisol production, potentially leading to a decrease in cortisol release.

"Some of the earliest investigations of pregnenolone’s many benefits showed it to be an energising, anti-stress biochemical."

During 1940 Dr Pincus and Hoagland gave 50 to 100 mg pregnenolone to various types of factory workers', pilots and students trained to use flight simulators . The factory workers noted improved production rates whilst taking pregnenolone. They felt less fatigued, better able to cope with their jobs and experienced an enhanced sense of happiness and well-being. Interestingly, workers in stressful job environments improved more with pregnenolone than those with less demanding tasks.

The flight simulation machine was designed to test hand-eye coordination, learning, memory and stamina. The subjects were to fly the plane correctly, avoiding obstacles and crashes. Half the subjects were airplane pilots; half were not. Tests conducted over several weeks showed that the ability of all subjects to fly the simulated airplane improved significantly after taking 50mg pregnenolone before each test run. The improvement was especially noticeable after the subjects had taken pregnenolone for at least two weeks. This suggests pregnenolone’s anti-stress benefits may be cumulative.

"The professional pilots also reported that they performed better in their real flying jobs and that they suffered less fatigue during their pregnenolone-supplementing period."

Pregnenolone help with addiction:

Supraphysiologic neuroactive steroid PREG doses reduces cocaine craving and may also improve cocaine use outcomes in treatment seeking individuals with CUD.

It decreases stress- and cocaine cue-provoked craving and anxiety and reduces stress-induced autonomic arousal in individuals with CUD.

Pregnenolone Reduces Provoked Craving and Cocaine Use in Men and Women with Cocaine Use Disorder: A Pilot Trial

Elcin Sakmar et al. medRxiv. 2025.

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.01.07.25320141v1.full

A study published in 2023 in the journal "Hormones and Behavior" found that pregnenolone decreased stress-induced craving and normalized HPA axis function in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36445398/

Pregnenolone : The secret to young brain 🧠

Pregnenolone improves mental performance and memory. Reduced hypothalamic pregnenolone levels have been linked to cognitive deterioration.

It is thought that pregnenolone acts within the hypothalamus and hippocampus to support neuroplasticity.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550413121006896

Preliminary results of St. Louis School of Medicine researcher, Dr Sih, have shown definite memory enhancement with pregnenolone. Dr Sih gave 500mg pregnenolone or a placebo to men and women three hours before they were asked to perform standard memory tests.

"Pregnenolone resulted in improved memory in both men and women, improved spatial memory and perception in men, and improved verbal recall memory in women."

Women who suffer from menstrual migraines were found to have low levels of pregnenolone, opening up a treatment option with replacement. The researchers state: “Consequently, restoring low endogenous neurosteroid levels could exhibit therapeutic potential in migraine management.”

Pregnenolone anti inflammatory role :

https://www.jbc.org/article/S0021-9258(20)39029-3/fulltext

Pregnenolone has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and can play a role in preventing neuroinflammation and enhancing neuroprotection. It can also normalize physiological, endocrine, and subjective alterations associated with alcohol use disorder, including heart rate and blood pressure.

CRH, independent of cortisol production, also contributes to stress, disease and aging, by initiating inflammation. Chronic inflammation can impair the metabolism of macronutrients and can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, reducing the efficiency of aerobic energy production.

Pregnenolone dampens macrophage secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines via inhibition of signal activation by promoting the degradation of toll-like receptors, TLR2/415, as well as blocking the binding of TLR4 to myeloid differentiation factor. Pregnenolone promotes the degradation of proteins involved in the TLR signaling pathway, particularly TIRAP and TLR2, in macrophages and microglia. This can suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6.

Studies indicate that pregnenolone and its metabolites may have neuroprotective roles in various neuroinflammatory diseases, including MS and Alzheimer's disease. It may improve remyelination and neuroprotection in MS. Pregnenolone is an endocannabinoid, akin to CBD (cannabidiol) in its action, hence its application for mood and pain. It’s been said to have the potential to improve memory function. It may support myelinization, offering the prospect of slowing multiple sclerosis nerve deterioration.

Pregnenolone as a potential treatment for chronic low back pain :

Pregnenolone is believed to modulate pain signals in the brain and spinal cord, potentially reducing pain intensity and interfering with the perception of pain.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 94 veterans with chronic low back pain found that pregnenolone significantly reduced pain intensity ratings compared to placebo. Participants reported a 20% improvement in pain intensity ratings, while the placebo group saw only a 6% improvement.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32119096/

Dose of pregnenolone matters and is variable from condition to condition. In my subsequent article I will discuss about dosing , adverse effects and my experience with pregnenolone.

Disclaimer : this Article is not intended for medical advice This article is meant for information purposes only.

L-theanine has been demonstrated to act as an anticarcinogen through proapoptotic and antiproliferative effects. Several studies have indicated that L-theanine can significantly inhibit the growth of different kinds of tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma, cervical cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia cells. It has been thought that L-theanine could induce apoptosis of tumor cells via the mitochondrial pathway .

L Theanine and immunity :

L-theanine also seems to positively affect one of the body’s stress systems, the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. L-theanine known for its calming and stress-reducing properties, can indirectly benefit immunity by reducing the negative impact of stress. Research indicates that L-theanine may improve T-cell function, which is important for immune cell activation and defense. Previous studies have shown that L-theanine can enhance innate immune function by regulating the secretion of immune cytokines. Bukowski et al. demonstrated that ingestion of L-theanine by drinking tea induces innate immune response and immunologic memory in humans.Further clinical studies have found that oral administration of L-theanine enhances the activity of γδ T cells, promotes the secretion of IFN-γ, and further inhibits tumor activity. Its helpful in prevention of Colds and Flu.

L theanine and gut health:

Some research suggests that L-theanine may help alleviate ulcerative colitis by regulating colon immunity and gut microbiota. L-theanine can enhance gut-specific immunity by regulating the expression of immune cells like CD4+ T cells, which are important for fighting infection and maintaining gut health.

L-theanine may offer some benefits for gastritis, particularly in cases of NSAID-induced ulcers.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24981317/

The potential anti-inflammatory and gut-modulating effects of L-theanine could be beneficial for managing IBS symptoms.

A study suggests that L-theanine supplementation may shift gut microbial populations in favor of microbes linked with sleep quality. It has shown to improve intestinal barrier integrity, enhanced nutrient absorption, and regulation of the gut microbiota.L-theanine can reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, contributing to a healthier gut environment.

l-theanine can increase the diversity of gut bacteria and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful ones. It can increase the production of SCFAs by promoting the growth of bacteria known to produce these metabolites. SCFAs are crucial for gut health, providing energy for gut cells, supporting immune function, and reducing inflammation.

It is suggested that l-theanine regulates the structure and absorption capacity of the intestinal tract by increasing the concentration of glutamine absorbed from the blood to the intestinal tract in a healthy body. Treatment with a combination of l-theanine and l-glutamine was superior to treatment with l-glutamine alone in enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, reducing the expression of inflammatory factors, and increasing the intestinal villi height and crypt depth.

L-theanine can reduce damage to intestinal tight junctions caused by LPS, which can prevent the leakage of LPS into the bloodstream. L-theanine can reduce the flux of LPS from the rumen into the peripheral blood, potentially preventing endotoxemia (a condition where LPS enters the bloodstream) in animals. L-theanine can lower the levels of inflammatory markers like IL-1β in the blood.

To summarise L theanine benefits:

DOSAGES :

At low doses (200-300 mg), it promotes calm focus by helping your brain cells communicate more effectively.

At higher doses (600+ mg), it shifts your nervous system into parasympathetic mode. Reduces cortisol and quietens mental noise .

L-theanine is a mast cell stabilizer that can reduce anaphylactic shock. Doses for anxiety tend to be around 250 mg, but higher doses 1-1.5g needed for antihistamine effects.

Combining L-theanine with certain supplements may help improve the quality of your sleep. Supplements with gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical messenger in your brain that's known for its calming effects, may improve the amount of hours of sleep you get and help with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

L Theanine if combined with magnesium can reduce night time waking and lessens time to fall asleep thus improving sleep quality.

Combination of Magnesium, B Vitamins, Rhodiola, and Green Tea (L-theanine) Alleviates Chronic Stress in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2475299123206435

Adverse effects and Safety of L theanine :

It is possibly safe when used short-term.Doses upto 900 mg have been used in severe mental health conditions specially. It might cause mild side effects, such as nausea ,headache or sleepiness. Long term side effects need to be studied and still not clear.

Avoid beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) while taking this supplement.

Note : This article is not meant for medical advice ❎. Strictly designed for information purposes .Please contact your health care professional if you want to take supplements .

L-theanine has been known to improve sleep quality (Wei et al. 2022), gastric ulcers (Chatterjee et al. 2014), cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (Sun et al. 2013), post-traumatic stress disorder (Ceremuga et al. 2014), etc., suggesting a variety of physiological functions such as anti-inflammatory (Podolsky 2002), anti-apoptotic (Li et al. 2018), antioxidant (Liu et al. 2022), and neuroprotective effects (Takehana et al. 2017)

It is known for Neurotransmitter Modulation:

GABA Enhancement: L-theanine may increase the levels of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which plays a crucial role in calming and reducing anxiety.

Dopamine and Serotonin Release: Studies suggest that L-theanine can enhance the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with mood and cognitive function.

Glutamate Receptor Antagonism: L-theanine is structurally similar to glutamate and may act as a glutamate receptor antagonist, potentially reducing excessive glutamate activity, which is linked to excitotoxicity and neuronal damage. L Theanine calms OCD by reducing OCD is driven by excessive glutamate, which is excitatory for the brain.

Studies suggest l-theanine may increase alpha waves in the brain associated with relaxation and selective attention, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality and also lessens time to fall asleep. It activates flow state ,slows down racing thoughts ( likein Akathisia and anxiety) and increases verbal fluency . It may help boost and sharpen your mental focus if you are experiencing brain fog.

Research suggests that L-theanine may shield brain cells from excitotoxicity by calming nerve networks in the brain.

Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) is considered a marker of stress. It's released by the parotid glands in response to the activation of the autonomic nervous system, and its levels increase during both physical and psychological stress. Therefore, sAA can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for assessing the sympathetic nervous system and its response to stress. L-theanine supplementation can lead to a reduction in both subjective stress and sAA levels.

By modulating NMDA receptors and inhibiting glutamine transporters, L-theanine may contribute to neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing excitotoxicity and neuronal damage.Studies suggest that L-theanine can increase both the gene and protein expression of BDNF. BDNF is a protein that plays a crucial role in brain health, supporting neuronal growth, survival, and plasticity. Other research indicates that L-theanine may help protect against brain damage and cognitive decline. Chronic Stress can lower brain volume causing brain Shrinkage. L theanine shields your brain from stress and even helps with memory and learning.L-Theanine's anti-stress, antioxidant effects can preserve the structure of the brain.

L-theanine can help you quit nicotine

It reduces the expression of nicotine acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in key brain reward areas.

(The ones that keep you addicted)

Studies, including one published in Neurosci Lett. 2023 Jun 11, suggest that L-theanine may help mitigate these withdrawal symptoms.

L theanine and Parkinson's disease :

L-theanine shields the dopaminergic neurons from degeneration and improves the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells. l-theanine exhibits the potential to alleviate both the motor impairments and non-motor symptoms linked with Parkinson's disease

L Theanine and Multiple Sclerosis :

One short trial with 12 participants discovered that ingesting 200 mg of L-theanine twice daily for eight weeks greatly enhanced MS patients’ levels of fatigue, mood, and quality of life. Twenty participants in another study discovered that consuming 200 mg of L-theanine twice daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced their levels of anxiety and depression.

L-theanine may help alleviate oxidative damage and inflammatory responses in the injured area, and even antagonize myelin-related inhibitory effects , promoting nerve regeneration and functional recovery.

Nerve Regeneration and Functional Recovery:

Studies, particularly in models of nerve injury like brachial plexus root avulsion, have demonstrated that L-theanine, especially when combined with other compounds like NEP1-40, can promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery.

L Theanine as Natures Anti Histamine

L-theanine is a mast cell stabilizer that can reduce anaphylactic shock. L-theanine can inhibit stress by blocking glutamate receptors. Excess histamine can lead to the buildup of glutamate . L-theanine works by both preventing histamine release, and also blocking glutamate activity as well.

According to a 2013 review published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, L-theanine may offer some anti-allergic activity . Researchers found that L-theanine may decrease histamine release from rat mesenchymal precursor cells (rMPCs) and human mast cell line-1 (HMC-1), may reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and may help to stabilize your mast cells.

A 2011 study published in Amino Acids has found that theanine may help to stabilize mast cells and reduce mast cell histamine release . A 2016 study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology has found that L-theanine may help to reduce allergic response and inflammation of the airways in allergic asthma.

Ghee gives you good health counteracts the bad effects of pitta and anila and promotes well being !

Ghee is the elixir of life. It increases ojas in the body and makes the mind tranquil and peaceful. A sacred gift from Mother cow is not merely food or oil but an alchemy to promote balance in the body and soul , dispel illusion and darkness and uplift the inherent divinity in you .It adds “Ojas” (or immunity) to our body. It is credited for reducing inflammation , stimulating the process of digestion and absorption of nutrients. Ghee lubricates joints optimizes skin and eye health !

In the Vedic culture of ancient India, ghee was made on the full or waxing phase of the moon absorbing the energy and positivity of the night sky. In Vedic traditions, the moon is considered to influence the essence of plants and life itself. This phase is seen as time for nourishment and activity after the rest and detox of the moon . The waxing moon has a spring like energy filled with optimism ,sociability , self assurance and goal orientation. Its a good time for concentration , researching , physical stamina independence, structural thinking and mental creativity .This period of the moon cycle is known as the shukla paksha or the white part of the moon, and is considered auspicious. It is said the moon is considered to rule or control soma; the juice or essence of plants, and of life itself.

In the Vedas, milk is said to be the essence of grass, and ghee is said to be the essence of milk. Making ghee during the full moon is thought to enhance the ghee's ability to nourish "ojas," the body's subtle vital energy. The altered vibrations of the waxing moon are believed to create beneficial energy fields at a molecular level.

▪ Ghee produced during this phase is believed to provide increased nutritional benefits.

▪ Lunar influences during this time are perceived to have a soothing effect on both the mind and the nervous system.

▪ Ghee derived from the full moon period is believed to fortify physical stamina.

Therefore, the waxing moon and full moon represents the increase of this essential quality.

Ayurveda believes waxing period of the moon is a time when all of nature is at its heightened sensory state. The green grass, the nectar in the flowers is thought to be at optimum, enriched by the vibrations of the waxing moon. The ghee that is made at the eve of the full moon is believed to imbibe all these nourishing properties and positivity thereby increasing the nutritive value of the full moon ghee.

Full Moon Ghee Benefits :

• Rich in Conjugated Linoleic Acid , VITAMIN A ,D ,E ,K

• Supports bone, heart, and liver health

• Improves immunity

• Rich in butyric acid which helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome

• Improve digestion and assimilation of nutrients

• Lubricates the skin and body tissues from within

• Supports a radiant complexion

• Increases stamina

• Good for mental health promoting mental clarity

It is thought to be an emotional time for most people, as following this ritual of making ghee also helps to keep the mind in calm and composed.

The process of making full moon ghee is selfless sacred service to humanity as it not only creates a nourishing food but also connects us to the community promoting feelings of caring for others.

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is a rare, inherited developmental disorder that affects cholesterol production and many parts of the body. It's caused by genetic changes in the DHCR7 gene, which leads to a deficiency in the enzyme 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase. This enzyme is responsible for the final step in cholesterol synthesis.

Children with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome have very low cholesterol levels and most are either stillborn or die early because of serious malformations of the central nervous system. Those that survive have a small head size, learning problems and behavioural problems. They tend to grow more slowly than other infants and many affected individuals .

The most common features of SLOS include microcephaly, bitemporal narrowing (reduced distance between temples), ptosis, a short and upturned nose, micrognathia, epicanthal folds, and capillary hemangioma of the nose, agenesis or hypoplasia of the corpus callosum , cerebellar hypoplasia, increased ventricular size ,decreased frontal lobe size, polydactyly of hands or feet high-arched, narrow, hard palate cleft lip/palate, syndactyly of second and third toes, ambiguous or female-like male genitalia congenital heart defect and renal, pulmonary, liver and eye abnormalities.

Cholesterol is an important aspect in Hedgehog signaling. With lower levels of cholesterol, hedgehog proteins would not undergo the necessary covalent modification and subsequent activation. This would result in impaired embryonic development, and may contribute to the observed physical birth defects in SLOS. There is also impaired folate uptake across cell membrane which may lead to cleft palate in some SLOS patients. Folate had 50% reduced uptake in SLOS fibroblasts and membrane fluidity is significantly increased in them.

There is decreased cell proliferation which may explain failure to grow normally that almost all SLOS patients seem to suffer from !

Most patients with SLOS present decreased cholesterol levels, particularly in the brain .

For example, reduced levels of neurosteroids may be seen in SLOS. These are lipids which take part in signaling within the brain, and must be produced within the brain itself. They are responsible for interacting with nuclear steroid receptors, and bind to neurotransmitter-gated ion channels. Specifically, they modulate the effects of GABA and NMDA receptors, resulting in calming effects, improved memory, and more.Perhaps they could explain the possible behavioural charecteristics

Behavioral charecteristics :

They may have low normal intelligence, and react negatively or with hypersensitivity to different sensory stimuli. This is particularly true for certain auditory and visual stimuli. Many patients show aggressiveness and self-injurious behaviours, and sleep disturbances are common. Specific behaviours resembling those of people with autism are often present as well as hyperactivity, which provides genetic and biological insights into autism spectrum disorders. The autistic behaviours most characteristic of SLOS patients are opisthokinesis , stretching of the upper body, and hand flicking.

While Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is primarily known for its impact on growth, development, and intellectual ability, there is emerging evidence suggesting a potential link between SLOS and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, particularly intracranial germ-cell tumors. However, the relationship between SLOS and cancer risk is not fully understood, and more research is needed to establish its specific implications.

• One study reported the first instance of a child with SLOS developing a cerebral germinoma, a type of malignant intracranial germ-cell tumor. This finding suggests a potential association between SLOS and a higher risk of these specific types of tumors.

• DHCR7 and Thyroid Cancer:

  Research also indicates that DHCR7 polymorphisms, which can lead to SLOS, might be associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer due to their impact on vitamin D levels.

The problems that occur in Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome are because of their very low cholesterol levels, since cholesterol is probably the most important molecule in the body.

Recurrent infections, including ear infections and pneumonia, are also common.

Cholesterol supplementation benefits patient with Smith Lemli Opitz syndrome .

This study, based at the Department of Pediatrics, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, examined the effects of cholesterol supplementation in children with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. The trial included six children, ranging in age from birth to 11 years old.

The researchers found:

• Clinical benefits of the cholesterol therapy were seen in all patients, irrespective of their age at the onset of treatment, or the severity of their cholesterol defect. • The cholesterol therapy improved growth, gave a more rapid developmental progress, and a lessening of problem behaviours. As older patients progressed to puberty, they had a better tolerance of infection, improvement of gastrointestinal symptoms, and a reduction in photosensitivity and skin rashes. • Patients had no adverse reactions to treatment with cholesterol. The results of the study show that cholesterol supplementation benefits patients with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome.

TB bacteria can live in the body without making you sick. This is called inactive TB, or latent TB infection. People with inactive TB are infected with TB germs, but they do not have active TB disease. They do not feel sick, do not have symptoms of TB disease, and cannot spread TB germs to others.TB germs become active if the immune system can't stop them from multiplying and growing in the body. When TB germs are active (multiplying in your body), this is called active TB disease. People with active TB disease feel sick & present with all the symptoms. They may also be able to spread the germs to people they spend time with every day.

“TB infection is there in one-third of the world population; that doesn’t mean they are suffering from TB. More than 40% of the population in India carry TB bacteria in their body but they may not suffer from TB disease. There is only 10% chance that someone infected with TB bacteria to catch TB disease.”

So what all can possibly increase your risk of developing TB disease ?

• Acid Suppressing Agents : exposure to drugs like proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 receptor antagonists may increase the risk of TB.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Some studies suggest that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of active TB.

• Alchohol and Substance abuse

• Some antipsychotics, including clozapine, may increase the risk of TB. This risk may be higher when clozapine is combined with other antipsychotics.

• People with HIV/AIDS are at a significantly higher risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) than those without HIV/AIDS. TB accounts for a significant portion of AIDS-related deaths globally.

• Immunosuppressants increase the risk of developing TB.

  Many drugs can cause immunosuppression, including corticosteroids, chemotherapy agents, and other medications like Cyclophosphamide, Busulphan Mycophenolate mofetil ,Azathioprine, Sirolimus, Monoclonal antibodies, such as rituximab, bevacizumab, and trastuzumab ,Janus kinase inhibitors ,Anti-TNF drugs and Methotrexate, Ciclosporin Tacrolimus Leflunomide.

• Topiramate can cause metabolic acidosis, a condition where the body's pH becomes too acidic. This can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, including TB. Topiramate has also been associated with pulmonary eosinophilia, a condition where there's a buildup of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the lungs. This can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, and wheezing.

• Metabolic acidosis, particularly lactic acidosis, can increase the risk of tuberculosis (TB) by altering the immune response and potentially affecting the effectiveness of anti-TB drugs. The acidic environment caused by metabolic acidosis can suppress protective inflammatory responses and promote extracellular matrix degradation, both of which can contribute to the progression of TB

• Immunosuppression : immunosuppression increases the risk of developing tuberculosis .People with weakened immune systems are much more likely to develop active TB than people with healthy immune systems.

• Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of TB, especially if they take certain medications.The risk of TB is higher in patients who take bDMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors.

• Thalassemia patients are at an increased risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) due to several factors related to the underlying condition and its treatment. These include an abnormal immune response, iron overload, splenectomy (spleen removal), and the use of iron chelation therapy. Additionally, the increased iron levels in thalassemia patients can potentially enhance the multiplication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in macrophages. Reseachers in England found that patients with iron overload were usually iron defiecient.

• Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are surgeries that have been linked to an increased risk of TB. A population-based study in Taiwan found that gastrectomy patients had a 1.97-fold increased risk of pulmonary TB.

• Some studies suggest that patients who undergo appendectomy may have an increased risk of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). While these surgeries are lifesaving , but we can take precautions post surgery on how to prevent infections like TB.

  One study found a 1.4-fold increased risk of pulmonary TB in individuals with a history of appendectomy.

  PMID: 24781006

  DOI: 10.1007/s10096-014-2112-0

• Post CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft) patients are at risk of developing Tuberculosis (TB) due to various factors related to the surgery itself and the patient's overall health. These risks include potential surgical site infections, immunosuppression from the surgery, and the reactivation of latent TB. CABG and related medications can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections, including TB.

• Chronic kidney disease and tuberculosis are linked, and people with CKD have an increased risk of developing TB. This is especially true for people who are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant.

• Patients with nephrotic syndrome are at an increased risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). This is due to the altered immune status in nephrotic syndrome, which can make individuals more susceptible to infections like TB. Nephrotic syndrome can lead to a weakened immune system. This is because the disease can cause a loss of certain proteins in the blood, including antibodies (IgG), which are essential for fighting off infections. Corticosteroids are often used to treat nephrotic syndrome, but they can also suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infections, including TB.

• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) can increase the risk of TB in patients

• TB and COPD risk COPD patients have a 3-fold increased risk of developing active TB. Studies have shown that TB patients often have lower serum zinc levels compared to healthy individuals, and zinc deficiency can be a significant problem among TB patients. Lower zinc levels are associated with an increased risk of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Zinc supplementation may be beneficial for TB patients, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing disease progression.

• Carnitine deficiency may increase the risk of tuberculosis (TB), and carnitine supplementation might offer some protection against TB-related complications. Studies suggest that carnitine deficiency is more common in TB patients compared to healthy individuals. Additionally, carnitine has been shown to play a role in T-cell-dependent antibacterial activity and may enhance immune responses in TB patients.

• Diabetes increases the risk of tuberculosis. People with diabetes are more likely to develop active TB and die from TB treatment.

• Low cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis.

• Malnutrition : Zinc defiency (more common in vegetarians & vegans)

• Selenium deficiency is linked to an increased risk of tuberculosis (TB).

• Vitamin B12 deficiency can indirectly increase the risk of tuberculosis (TB) by impairing the immune system's ability to fight infection and potentially by creating a more favorable environment for TB bacteria to thrive. Specifically, a lack of vitamin B12 can affect white blood cell production, which are crucial for detecting and destroying pathogens like TB bacteria. Studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with a higher prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), which can progress to active TB.

• Vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of tuberculosis (TB) by impairing the body's ability to fight off the infection. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune function, and its deficiency can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to TB.

  Reduced Antimicrobial Activity:

  Vitamin D helps the body produce antimicrobial peptides like cathelicidin and defensins, which directly kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Deficiency reduces this production, making it harder for the body to control the infection.

  Impaired Macrophage Function:

  Vitamin D enhances the ability of macrophages (a type of immune cell) to engulf and kill bacteria. Deficiency can impair macrophage function, leading to less effective clearance of the TB bacteria.

  Reduced Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses:

  Vitamin D is involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses, which are essential for fighting infections. Deficiency can weaken these immune responses, making it harder for the body to mount an effective defense against TB.

  Increased Risk of Progression:

  Individuals with latent TB infection (LTBI) who are also vitamin D deficient have a higher risk of progressing to active TB disease.

  Worse Disease Progression:

  Vitamin D deficiency can also lead to worse outcomes for those already infected with TB.

• Vitamin A deficiency can contribute to increased inflammation, which can worsen TB symptoms and potentially lead to more severe disease progression. Vitamin A deficiency impairs the ability of macrophages to effectively target and kill the bacteria. T cells are another important component of the immune system, and vitamin A deficiency can reduce their ability to mount an effective response against TB. Studies have shown that individuals with vitamin A deficiency are at a higher risk of progressing from latent TB infection to active TB disease.

  PMCID: PMC5848231 PMID: 28531276

• Vitamin E deficiency can increase the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) by impairing the immune system's ability to fight off the bacteria. Low levels of vitamin E, particularly α-tocopherol and δ-tocopherol, have been linked to an increased risk of incident TB disease among household contacts of TB patients.

• Vitamin C deficiency can weaken the immune system, potentially increase the risk of TB infection, and worsen TB outcomes, including slower bacterial clearance and increased disease severity. Research indicates that individuals with low vitamin C levels tend to have a higher bacterial load during TB treatment, meaning they may have more TB bacteria present in their bodies.

• Iron deficiency and anemia are associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis (TB). Iron deficiency can impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infection. Anemic patients have a higher risk of developing TB, and the risk increases with the severity of anemia. Anemia is associated with severe forms of TB, like meningeal and disseminated TB.

• Poverty can lead to unstable housing, poor hygiene, and limited access to healthcare.

  Socio-economic Factors: Living in overcrowded conditions increases the likelihood of close contact with TB-infected individuals, facilitating transmission.

  Poor Ventilation:

  Poorly ventilated homes can allow TB bacteria to linger in the air, increasing the risk of infection.

• Depression is a risk factor for TB, and vice versa. Patients with mental disorders are more likely to be exposed to TB infection. Immune suppression: Dysregulation of the HPA axis can contribute to immune suppression. People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have an increased risk of TB infection. Prolonged hospital stays for mental disorders can increase the risk of TB infection.

• Hypothyroidism Patients with hypothyroidism have a 2.91 times higher risk of developing TB than those without hypothyroidism. This risk is higher for people who take thyroxine replacement therapy (TRT) and those who don't take TRT.

• Tobacco use, including smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, increases the risk of tuberculosis.

• Silicosis, an occupational lung disease, increases the risk of TB. People with silicosis are 2.8 to 39 times more likely to develop TB than people without silicosis. Silica dust exposure impairs the immune system, making it easier for TB bacteria to survive in the lungs. Silica dust exposure can cause oxidative-nitrosative stress, macrophage impairment, and poor drug penetration.

• Workers in construction, mining, and other industries are at high risk of TB. This is because they may work in closed spaces and unprotected environments, which can spread the disease. Mining Workers in mines are at high risk of TB. Pottery, marble stone, and sand extraction workers have high rates of TB. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing workers in these occupations also have high rates of TB.

• Pneumoconiosis, a lung disease caused by inhaling mineral dust, significantly increases the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). This increased risk is particularly pronounced with silicosis, a type of pneumoconiosis caused by silica dust exposure. The combination of pneumoconiosis and TB infection can lead to a synergistic effect, accelerating the progression of both diseases. Studies have shown a clear link between pneumoconiosis and an elevated risk of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). For instance, a study in China found a 7.5% prevalence of PTB in patients with pneumoconiosis.

• Air pollution can increase the risk of developing active TB, and can also reactivate latent TB. They alter macrophage function, Reduces lung function, Increases pulmonary oxidative stress and Causes persistent inflammation.

• Chemotherapy as well as Radiotherapy treatment for cancer increases the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) due to immunosuppression. Studies have shown that cancer patients receiving chemotherapy have a significantly higher risk of TB compared to the general population.

  Importance of Screening:

  Due to the increased risk, screening for latent TB infection (LTBI) before chemotherapy can be beneficial for cancer patients, allowing for treatment to prevent reactivation of TB.

• Weakened immune system, Malignancy, patients undergoing organ transplantation

TB can be prevented by improving your immune system. Addressing your immune system is the key !

A build up of stored biounavailable copper in the body that causes physical and mental dysfunction.

Dr. William Walsh's massive database of 30,000 patients indicates that copper and zinc imbalances are very common in mental disorders, and normalization of these factors usually provides great improvements. Mainstream medicine needs to become more aware of the importance of these trace metals in physical and mental health. The clinical challenge is to identify patients with Copper and/or Zinc imbalances, and to provide treatments that normalize blood and brain levels. Based on Dr. Walsh's studies of 2,800 depressed patients, copper overload tends to be more common in women (96% of subjects) and are more likely to suffer from high anxiety, adrenal fatigue, fibromyalgia or postpartum depression in their child bearing years. A large study by William Walsh and John Crayton reported that depressed women with a history of postpartum depression have significantly elevated serum copper when compared to both non-depressed women.

Another outcome study revealed that 75% of young males with ADD, episodic rage disorder, hyperactivity, destructive and/or assaultive behaviors exhibitor exhibited elevated copper/zinc ratios. Separate outcome studies indicated significant improvements in behavior after normalization of Cu/Zn ratios.

Unfortunately, many persons have a genetic inability to regulate copper levels and a serious copper overload can result.

What can contribute to copper Toxicity ?

• Copper IUD and hormonal birth control

• Copper pipes & environmental copper exposure

• Vegan & vegetarian diets

• Overintake of copper rich foods

• Xenostrogens and other toxic exposures

• Poor liver & Gall bladder functioning

• Adrenal insufficiency

• Metallithionein SNP mutations

• Certain supplements

• Occupational exposures

• zinc defiency

• metallothionein SNP mutations

• Drugs that deplete zinc can disturb copper Zinc imbalance

• Gall bladder surgery

• Chronic stress

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF COPPER TOXICITY :

• Mind racing thoughts ( cannot turn off your thoughts )

• PMS

• Interrupted sleep

• Yeast infections ( candida )

• Headaches & Migraines

• Anxiety, Panic attacks

• Irritability, Depression

• Suicidal thoughts

• Excitability / manic behaviour

• Emotionally numb

• Depersonalisation

• Paranoia

• Difficulty foccusing

• Lowered self awareness

• Acne

• OCD

• Weight gain

• Joint pain

• Poor immune functioning

• Allergies

• Heavy periods

• Dry skin

• Aching muscles & cramps

• stomach pain

• nausea and vomiting

• diarrhea

While this is not recognized widely in modern medicine & as usual mostly it's women who experience copper toxicity often gaslit , labelled crazy, called nuts or all in your mind .

No it's not in your mind . It's excess copper in your body.

Talk to your naturopathy Dr. Or functional medicine practitioner if you have these symptoms & get your root cause healing.

Happy Healing!

Blessed Monday 🍀

Magnesium depletion can be described as " The most under diagnosed electrolyte abnormality in current medical practice ".

• Critical injury or illness : Hypomagnesemia is not uncommon in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU). Two recent meta-analyses of prospective and retrospective cohort studies reported serum magnesium concentrations ≤0.75 mmol/L in ICU patients at admission or within 24 hours following admission to be associated with a greater need for mechanical ventilation, longer ICU stay, and higher risk of hospital mortality . A pooled analysis of three studies also suggested a higher risk of sepsis in ICU patients with hypomagnesemia . A recent prospective study conducted in patients admitted with severe head injury found better neurological outcomes after 6 months in those who presented with normal serum magnesium concentrations at admission compared to those with hypomagnesemia (serum magnesium concentrations <0.65 mmol/L) . However, evidence is currently unavailable to suggest that magnesium administration could improve outcomes in critically ill or severely injured patients

• Diuretic therapy : is the leading cause of magnesium defiency . Diuretic induced inhibition of Sodium reabsorption also interferes with Magnesium reabsorption and resultant urinary magnesium can parallel with urinary sodium losses. Urinary magnesium excretion is most pronounced with loop diuretics (Furosemide & Ethacrynic acid) .Magnesium defiency has been reported in 50% of patients receiving chronic therapy with furosemide .Thiazide diuretics show a Simmilar tendency for magnesium depletion but mostly in elderly patients.

• Diabetes mellitus: The high blood sugar and elevated insulin levels associated with excess sugar intake decrease magnesium absorption and cause the kidneys to excrete magnesium faster. Since magnesium is key in stabilizing blood sugar, a vicious cycle commences. Magnesium depletion is common in insulin dependent diabetic patients probably as a result of urinary magnesium losses that accompany glycosuria. Low magnesium levels can lead to insulin resistance and defective tyrosine-kinase activity. Hypomagnesemia is reported in only 7% of admissions for diabetic ketoacidosis but the incidence increases to 50% over the first 12 hours after admission probably as a result of insulin induced movement of magnesium into cells.

Magnesium supplements may help improve insulin sensitivity, dyslipidemia, and endothelial cell dysfunction. They may also help decrease inflammation markers like CRP levels.

• Antibiotics that deplete Magnesium : Aminoglycosides , Amphotericin & Pentamidine. The aminoglycosides block magnesium reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle and Hypomagnesemia is reported in 30% of patients receiving Aminoglycosoide therapy.

• Other Drugs like proton pump inhibitors, oral contraceptive pills , steroids , cisplatin, digitalis , Cholestyramine , Synthetic estrogens

  

• Secretory diarrhea : secretions from lower GI tract are rich in Magnesium (10- 14 meq /L ) & secretory diarrhea can be accompanied by profound magnesium depletion . Upper GI tract secretions are not rich in magnesium (1 to 2 meQ/ L ), so vomiting does not a pose risk for magnesium depletion. Gastrointestinal disorders: Prolonged diarrhea, Crohn's disease, malabsorption syndromes, celiac disease, surgical removal of a portion of the small intestine, and intestinal inflammation due to radiation may all lead to magnesium depletion.

• Acute Myocardial infarction : Hypomagnesemia is reported in 80% of patients with acute myocardial infarction . The mechanism is unclear, but may be due to an intracellular shift of Magnesium from excess of catecholamines .

• Alchohol related illness : Hypomagnesemia is reported in 30% of hospital admissions for alchohol abuse and in 85% of admissions for delerium tremens. There are multiple reasons for magnesium depletion including generalized malnutrition and chronic diarrhoea. There is an association between Magnesium defiency and Thiamine defiency . Magnesium is required for transformation of Thiamine into Thiamine pyrophosphate so magnesium can promote thiamine defiency in the face of adequate thiamine intake . Hence Magnesium status should be monitored periodically in patients receiving daily thiamine supplements.

• Stress :

Stress can deplete magnesium levels in the body. This is known as the "magnesium and stress vicious circle". Stress causes the body to lose more magnesium through the kidneys. Low magnesium levels can increase stress, and stress can increase magnesium loss. Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps with muscle function, protein synthesis, and regulating metabolic pathways.

• Modern farming techniques Industrial agriculture is focused on NPK forgetting other nutrients .Industrialized agriculture can cause magnesium deficiency in plants. Magnesium is an essential nutrient for plants, and as the agriculture industry grows, magnesium deficiency is becoming more of a problem. Over 40% of the world’s arable soil is acidified. Magnesium deficiency is one result. High-yielding crop varieties and the leaching of Mg with soil acidification are depleting indigenous soil Mg reserves. The degree of Mg deficiency is increasing in almost all production systems.

Magnesium is a natural calcium channel blocker, blocks sodium attachment to vascular smooth muscle cells, increases vasodilating PGE, binds potassium in a cooperative manner, increases nitric oxide, improves endothelial dysfunction, causes vasodilation, and reduces BP. It can be helpful in the treatment of so many routine conditions such as Arterial disease ,Angina , Heart attack, Abnormal heart rhythms, Stroke, Cardiomyopathy, Heart failure , High blood pressure & Mitral valve prolapse.

L-type calcium channels are involved in mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of magnesium sulphate

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0007091217337054

Magnesium is required for proper functioning of the membrane pump on cardiac cell membranes.

Magnesium depletion will depolarize cardiac cells and promote tacchyarrthmias.

Because both digitalis and magnesium defiency act to inhibit the membrane pump , magnesium defiency will magnify digitalis effect and promote digitalis cardiotoxicity.

Intravenous magnesium can suppress digitalis toxic arrhythmias , even when serum Magnesium levels are normal.

Intravenous magnesium can also abolish refractory arrhythmias which are not responsive to traditional anti arrythimic agents in the absence of Hypomagnesemia . It can be due to membrane stabilizing effect of Magnesium.

Serious Arrhythmias associated with Magnesium depletion is Torsa de pointes.

How magnesium helps with arrhythmias

• Inhibits calcium: Magnesium reduces the amount of calcium that enters cells, which can help prevent arrhythmias.

• Lowers heart rate: Intravenous magnesium can slow the heart rate.

  

Low magnesium levels are linked to AF, especially after coronary artery bypass surgery.

Atrial fibrillation is a condition defined as the occurrence of persistent heart rate abnormalities; such arrhythmias often complicate the recovery of patients after cardiac surgery. The use of magnesium in the prophylaxis of postoperative atrial arrhythmia after coronary artery bypass grafting has been evaluated as a sole or adjunctive agent to classical antiarrhythmic molecules (namely, β-blockers and amiodarone) in several prospective, randomized controlled trials. A meta-analysis of 21 intervention studies showed that intravenous magnesium infusions could significantly reduce postoperative atrial arrhythmia in treated compared to untreated patients .

Presently, high-quality evidence is still lacking to support the use of magnesium in the prophylaxis of post-operative atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias in patients with contraindications to first-line antiarrhythmic agents.

Magnesium for better Beating :

Dr. Roberts : “Among my patients with chronic CVD are individuals who expirence uncomfortable arrythmias - racing of the heart or a condition of extra or skipped heartbeats that we call PVC (Premature Ventricular Complex). Everyone of them have a magnesium defiency. I give them all a magnesium supplement & their PVCs disappear . They all feel better. My staff personnel have become so aware of this effect that whenever a patient tests positive for PVCs they will let me know before I even see the patient that so & so needs magnesium “

Magnesium is endothelial cell friendly .It will stabilize plaque. It improves the metabolic effiency of heart muscle cells so it alleivated chest pain and other symptoms of angina due to lack of oxygen (ischaemia) .The mineral is particularly helpful in cases of ischemia caused by spasm of the coronary vessels because it helps relax the muscle walls of the arteries . It nurtures the heart during the acute phase of a heart attack , lowers soaring blood pressure that threatens to cause a stroke , and eases various cardiac arrythmias that could develop into cardiac arrest .

Higher magnesium intakes were associated with an 8 to 11% reduction in stroke risk in two meta-analyses of prospective studies, each including over 240,000 participants. The most recent pooled analysis of 14 studies found a 12% lower risk of stroke with higher versus lower magnesium intakes and estimated a 7% risk reduction of stroke associated with each 100-mg increment in daily magnesium intake.

Only two prospective studies have examined the risk of heart failure in relation to magnesium intakes. The pooled analysis suggested a 31% lower risk of heart failure with higher dietary magnesium intakes .

Magnesium deficiency may contribute to hypertension :

Magnesium intake: Higher levels of magnesium in the blood are associated with lower blood pressure. Magnesium interacts with calcium channels in smooth muscle cells, preventing excessive calcium influx and promoting relaxation, which can help lower blood pressure. Research suggests that adequate magnesium intake may help manage hypertension by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.

Magnesium & Mitral valve prolapse:

Research suggests a potential link between low magnesium levels and mitral valve prolapse (MVP), with studies indicating that many patients with symptomatic MVP may have magnesium deficiency, and supplementing with magnesium can alleviate symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, and anxiety associated with the condition.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage :

Occurrence of hypomagnesemia has been reported in patients who suffered from a subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm. Poor neurologic outcomes following an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) have been linked to inappropriate calcium-dependent contraction of arteries (known as cerebral arterial vasospasm), leading to delayed cerebral ischemia . Because magnesium is a calcium antagonist and potent vasodilator, several randomized controlled trials have examined whether intravenous magnesium sulfate infusions could reduce the incidence of vasospasm after aSAH. Because magnesium is a calcium antagonist and potent vasodilator, several randomized controlled trials have examined whether intravenous magnesium sulfate infusions could reduce the incidence of vasospasm after aSAH. A meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials found that magnesium therapy after aSAH significantly reduced vasospasm but failed to prevent neurologic deterioration or decrease the risk of death . Another meta-analysis of 13 trials in 2,413 aSAH sufferers concluded that the infusion of magnesium sulfate had no benefit regarding neurologic outcome and mortality, despite a reduction in the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia. The post-hoc analysis of a small randomized controlled trial suggested that maintaining magnesium sulfate infusion for 10 days post-aSAH or until signs of vasospasm disappear might protect against secondary cerebral infarction when markers of vasoconstriction and reduced brain perfusion are present. Current evidence does not support the use of magnesium supplementation in clinical practice for aSAH patients beyond magnesium status normalization.

Magnesium affects the Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in the brain, which controls the stress response system and therefore, anxiety and depression.Tentative data indicate that oral magnesium supplementation may be effective for treating mild to moderate adult depression.

Patients with schizophrenia may have low levels of magnesium in their red blood cells. Magnesium deficiency can cause psychiatric symptoms like confusion, agitation, and depression.

Magnesium may help with anxiety by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing muscle tension, and improving sleep quality.

Magnesium acts as a co-factor in more than 350 enzymes in humans; the majority of them play a crucial role in brain function. It affects mood regulation by balancing chemical compounds in the brain . Magnesium increases the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), through which it may reduce the function of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) ionotropic glutamate receptor. Magnesium is considered a potent antagonist of the NMDA receptor complex, while it is an inhibitor of glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3)

Neurological manifestation of Magnesium defiency :

These include Altered mentation, personality changes , generalized seizures , tremors and hypereflexia .

A neurologic syndrome described recently that can abate with magnesium defiency .The clinical presentation is charecterized by Ataxia , slurred speech , metabolic acidosis, excessive salivation , diffuse muscle spasms , generalized seizures and progressive obtundation.

The clinical features are often brought out by loud noises or bodily contact and thus the term reactive central nervous system magnesium defiency has been used to describe this disorder. The syndrome is associated with reduced magnesium levels in (CSF ) cerebrospinal fluid and it resolves with magnesium infusion .The prevalence of this disorder is unknown at present.

Abnormal eye movements: Also known as nystagmus can arise from Magnesium defiency . Apart from Thiamine defiency, the downbeat nystagmus in the primary position occurs with the metabolic derangement of severe magnesium depletion.

Neuropathic pain :

The effect of magnesium on neuropathic pain has been examined in some clinical studies. The intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate was found to partially or completely alleviate pain in patients with postherpetic neuralgia, a type of neuropathic pain caused by herpes zoster infection (shingles) .In a more recent randomized controlled trial in 45 patients with either postherpetic neuralgia or neuropathic pain of traumatic or surgical origin, oral supplementation of magnesium failed to improve measures of pain and quality of life compared to a placebo.

Magnesium defiency & Dementia :Magnesium defiency & Dementia :Studies on animal models have also shown that magnesium deficiency is linked to memory impairments associated with hippocampal activity, and oral administration of magnesium has been found to lower neuroinflammation.

Although precise mechanisms remain unclear magnesium is known to support neuronal health by lowering inflammation and oxidative damage and preserving the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium also inhibits the activity of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor and lowers calcium influx, reducing excitotoxic damage. It also plays a role in maintaining myelinated axons and myelin sheaths on neurons.

So far, magnesium has been recognized as a cofactor for over 600 enzymatic reactions within the body. Importantly, magnesium deficiency has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various dementia-related diseases containing cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease. Magnesium deficiency in serum or the brain of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients has been shown to be associated with AD. Undeniably, magnesium may be an effective therapy for AD.

Magnesium may be an effective therapy for Alzheimer’s disease Dao-Yun Lei 1, Jie Sun 2 (PMCID: PMC9521536 PMID: 36186498)

How magnesium may help tinnitus :

Serum magnesium levels are lower in people with tinnitus than the general population. Increased susceptibility to noise damage, ototoxicity and auditory hyperexcitability have also been linked to magnesium deficiency. It has been shown that magnesium supplements can help to prevent or treat some forms of hearing damage and small-scale studies have suggested that they might have a beneficial effect on tinnitus.

Magnesium supplements may help reduce tinnitus symptoms by improving auditory function and nerve transmission. People with tinnitus often have low magnesium levels, which may contribute to hearing changes.

Neuroprotective: Magnesium supports the brain's neuroprotective functions.

Regulates neurotransmitters: Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitter levels.

Synaptic plasticity: Magnesium plays a role in synaptic plasticity.

Vasodilation: Magnesium may help with hearing loss and hearing conditions through its vasodilation properties.

How magnesium deficiency may be linked to Parkinson's disease:

Low levels of magnesium may be linked to Parkinson's disease (PD). Magnesium deficiency can cause neurological symptoms, including muscle cramps and tremors, which can be similar to symptoms of PD.

Dopaminergic cell loss

In animal models, low magnesium levels have been linked to accelerated loss of dopaminergic cells.

Magnesium transporters

Variants in magnesium transport channels have been found in people with PD.

Glutamatergic neurotransmission :Low magnesium levels may increase glutamatergic neurotransmission, which can lead to neuronal cell death.

Neuroinflammation: Low magnesium levels can increase the levels of inflammatory mediators in the brain, which may contribute to PD.

How magnesium deficiency can cause neurological symptoms ?

Muscle cramps: Low magnesium levels can make it difficult for muscles to relax, causing cramps or spasms.

Tremors: Low magnesium levels can cause tremors.

Neuropathy: Severe magnesium deficiency can cause numbness and tingling sensations, especially in the extremities.

Magnesium & Energy production :

Magnesium is required for energy production, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolysis. ATP in Michtochondria is produced by cellular respiration & proteins that synthesize ATP need Magnesium.Each ATP molecule binds to a magnesium ion (Mg2+) to form its biologically functional form, Mg-ATP. The release of energy from ATP requires Magnesium which is an essential co factor for ATPase enzymes that hydrolyze ATP. Magnesium is essential for providing us with energy and for allowing us to utilize this energy to sustain life.

Ion transport across cell membranes

Magnesium is required for the active transport of ions like potassium and calcium across cell membranes.

Hypokalemia is reported in 40% of cases of Magnesium depletion . Furthermore, the hypokalemia that accompanies magnesium depletion can be refractory to potassium replacement therapy and magnesium replacement is often necessary before the hypokalemia can be corrected.

Magnesium depletion can cause Hypocalcemia as a result of impaired parathormone release, combined with an impaired end organ response to parathormone. The hypocalcemia from magnesium depletion is difficult to correct unless magnesium deficits are corrected.

Inadequate serum magnesium concentrations are known to result in low serum calcium concentrations, resistance to parathyroid hormone (PTH) action, and resistance to some of the effects of vitamin D, all of which can lead to increased bone loss.

Lower serum magnesium concentrations may not be unusual in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and hypomagnesemia has been reported as an adverse effect of using the prescription drug teriparatide (Forteo) in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Begin MJ, Ste-Marie LG, Coupal L, Ethier J, Rakel A. Hypomagnesemia during teriparatide treatment in osteoporosis: incidence and determinants. J Bone Miner Res. 2018;33(8):1444-1449.

A large cohort study conducted in almost two-thirds of the Norwegian population found the level of magnesium in drinking water to be inversely associated with the risk of hip fracture.

In a case-cohort study nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Norfolk study, which included 5,319 individuals, total magnesium and potassium intakes were found to be inversely associated with heel bone (calcaneus) broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) measurements — which are predictive of the risk of incidental fracture — and with the risk of hip fractures .

Magnesium is needed for proper functioning of Na/K+ exchange pump(which is a magnesium dependent ATPase ) that generates electrical gradient across cell membrane. it plays an important role in the activity of electrically excitable tissues.

Through its role in ion transport systems, magnesium affects the conduction of nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and normal heart rhythm. It regulates the movement of Calcium into smooth muscle cells which gives pivotal role in the maintainance of cardiac contractile strength and peripheral vascular tone.

Migraine headaches

Lower intracellular magnesium concentrations (in both RBC and WBC) have been reported in individuals who suffer from recurrent migraine headaches compared to migraine-free individuals. Additionally, the incidence of hypomagnesemia also appeared to be greater in women who experience migraines with menstruation compared to women without menstrual migraines.

Magnesium sulfate can help with the aura associated with migraines.It can also treat other symptoms of migraines, such as photophobia and phonophobia.

Most frequent side effect is diarrhea, which can be helpful in those prone to constipation.

Daily oral magnesium has also been shown to prevent menstrually related migraine, especially in those with premenstrual migraine. This means that preventive use can target those with aura or those with menstrually related migraine, even for those with irregular cycles.

The most substantial evidence for magnesium’s effectiveness is in patients who have or have had aura with their migraine. It is believed magnesium may prevent the wave of brain signaling, called cortical spreading depression, which produces the visual and sensory changes in the common forms of aura. Other mechanisms of magnesium action include improved platelet function and decreased release or blocking of pain transmitting chemicals in the brain such as Substance P and glutamate. Magnesium may also prevent the narrowing of brain blood vessels caused by the neurotransmitter serotonin.

Efficacy of intravenous magnesium sulfate in the treatment of acute migraine attacks

Oral contraceptive pills deplete magnesium & they can cause migraine. There are lots of causes of Migraine but one of the causes could be magnesium defiency.

In 2012, the American Headache Society and the American Academy of Neurology reviewed the studies on medications used for migraine prevention and gave magnesium a Level B rating; that is, it is probably effective and should be considered for patients requiring migraine preventive therapy. Because of its safety profile and the lack of serious side effects, magnesium is often chosen as a preventive strategy either alone or with other preventive medications.

Some studies have shown that Intravenous (IV) magnesium sulfate can be an effective treatment for status migrainosus,( a type of migraine that lasts more than 72 hours) indicating that it can significantly alleviate pain in patients experiencing severe migraine attacks, particularly when administered to those with low ionized magnesium levels in their blood; however, further research is needed to fully understand its optimal dosage and application in this condition. It can provide significant pain relief and may be a cost-effective first-line treatment .

Our results show that 1 g intravenous magnesium sulfate is an efficient, safe, and well-tolerated drug in the treatment of migraine attacks. It is possible that magnesium sulfate could be used in a broader spectrum of patients than other drugs commonly used for attack treatment.

Do BP drugs cure your Hypertension? No , They act by causing hyponatremia .But the root cause of Hypertension is insulin resistance & stress. Unfortunately these drugs don't address root cause . Only lifestyle modification, sun exposure & diet do it .

Anti hypertensive drugs have side effects like increased risk of autoimmune conditions like pemphigus .

Do Cholesterol lowering drugs cure your elevated cholesterol? No , cholesterol is not the villian causing heart disease , it's the inflammation, excessive carbohydrates & seed oils .Cholesterol lowering medicines come with lots of unpleasant side effects like memory loss , peripheral neuropathy , Type 2 diabetes mellitus, increased risk of ALS and haemmoragic stroke .

Do diabetes mellitus drugs cure your diabetes ?No , They don't address root cause is insulin resistance

Do immunosuppressants heal Autoimmune conditions? No , they put it under remission but again come with unpleasant side effects due to supression of our immune system.

Do Psychiatry drugs heal your trauma & mental illness? No , Depression is not due to a chemical imbalance. HPA axis dysfunction & Hormonal imbalance contiributing to mental illness. In fact some Psychiatry drugs can cause unpleasant dangerous side effects like compulsive gambling from ARIPIPRAZole, Antipsychotics induced Othello syndrome ,ssri cause homicidal thoughts & can disrupt hpa axis, All antidepressants increase risk of Suicide!

Do Bisphosphonates protect against bone fracture? Not always , they can increase risk of certain fractures & can cause osteonecrosis of jaw .

Are vaccines safe & effective ? No, they can have dangerous consequences like life long disability .

Cures always come with side benefits. Suppressing symptoms only come with adverse effects. It's duty of every doctor to provide informed consent about side effects of every single medication. Let the patient decide what they want .

Let the patient weigh their own risk vs benefit ratio . Drug coercion cannot be recognised as a good medical practice . It can lead to poor patient compliance , misunderstanding between doctor & patients leading to fights.

Our goal as a doctor is to cure people & ñot let them suffer more. Treating root cause only can remove suffering . We need reformation in our medical practice. Medical science has made so much progress yet hardly healthy human beings are seen nowadays. Health does not come in a pill .We don't have pharmaceutical defiency rather we have nutritional deficiency or we need detox from toxins.

Pills have a role in emergency & are life saving. But the goal is not to be dependent on medications for life.

Note that this is not medical advice ❎ .This is only for information purposes only . Speak to your health care provider how to come off these prescription drugs safely & choose such a Dr who treats your root cause & heals you .

Blessed Monday 🍀

More common side effects:

Large studies suggest that these are the most common side effects of the Mirena IUD in people who have used it for 5 years:

Less common side effects

These side effects occurred in 5–10% of participants in studies of the Mirena IUD:

Can Mirena cause Pseudotumor cerebri ?

Yes

Several case reports describe individuals who developed IIH symptoms after insertion of an LNG-IUD, with symptoms resolving after removal of the device.

One of the lesser known but serious side effects of the Mirena IUD is pseudotumor cerebri or PTC. Pseudotumor cerebri, also known as intracranial hypertension, occurs when the pressure inside the skull increases for no obvious reason. Some of the symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri include:

• Dimmed or blurred vision

• Moderate to severe headaches

• A ringing in the ears

• Difficulty seeing to the side

• Double vision

• Pain in shoulder, back, and neck

• Seeing light flashes

LARCs ir IUDs (long acting reversible contraceptives) and their effects on milk supply and mood disorders :

The two reasons to reconsider hormonal contraceptives of any type during the postpartum period, and particularly LARCs, are their potential to negatively impact milk supply and their increased risk of mood disorders.

They are also associated with increased risk of depression and mood changes !

Exposure to levonorgestrel-releasing IUD has been associated with depression and more recently a connection to anxiety, panic attacks, sleep problems and restlessness has been suggested.

Levonorgestrel intrauterine device and depression: A Swedish register-based cohort study

Can Mirena cause bacterial Vaginosis?

using a Mirena IUD (a hormonal intrauterine device) may slightly increase the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis (BV), likely due to the potential disruption of the vaginal microbiome caused by the foreign body in the uterus,

.A more recent study with 252 women who all got the Mirena IUD looked at a longer time course for changes in the vaginal microbiome and saw a temporary decrease in Lactobacillus and an increased chance of bacterial vaginosis for participants at three months post-insertion.

The Mirena IUD can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs):

Vaginal pH: Mirena can change the vaginal pH and increase the risk of vaginal and bladder infections.

Fungal spores: Fungal spores on the IUD can cause candida, which can lead to infections.

Pelvic infections: Mirena can increase the risk of pelvic and genital infections.

Can Mirena increase risk of breast cancer ?

2015: A large study published in Acta Oncologica found that use of a levonorgestrel-releasing IUD was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Can MIRENA increase risk of hypertension ?

yes ,Mirena, a hormonal IUD, can potentially increase blood pressure in some individuals

What is Mirena crash ?

The Mirena crash is the term given to a group of side effects women may experience after having their device removed. These side effects may last for days, weeks, or even months. The Mirena crash is thought to be caused by a hormonal imbalance/ This happens as the body stops producing progesterone when the device is implanted, becoming dependent on the device, and it takes time to begin producing progesterone again.

The Mirena crash refers to several symptoms that develop after removing the Mirena. The Mirena crash symptoms will vary from woman to woman, but they may include:

Nausea

Mood swings

Depression

Fatigue

Anxiety

Pain during intercourse

Reduced sexual drive

Sleep disturbance