Holistic Health
Why Do We Need Mud?
The benefits of mud therapy according to Ayurveda.
All of us in childhood had played in the mud but none of us got I’ll due to mud, do you know why?
Because in India, Earth or mud is termed as a mother.
Our life starts with the soil and after we die we mix with the soil.
It is also said that the child which had played more in soil is the fittest one.
What could be its reason?
According to Ayurveda, our body is made up of five basic elements (panchamahabhuta) that are Earth, water, fire, air and sky.
Out of these 5 , Earth or mud is the most important one which plays an important role in the positive effect of mental and physical health.
Mud therapy is pancha bhautik chikitsa in Ayurveda.
What is mud therapy?
Mud therapy is a treatment that helps cure different ailments.
Soil contains various minerals that are essential for our body which builds our immune system.
Mud possesses the quality of absorbing toxins from the body which eventually helps in the prevention of many diseases.
Types of mud according to Ayurveda and its benefits.
In Harita Samhita( Book) 5 types of mrittika means soil is noted.
- Krishna(Black)-Used in poison, skin disorders, inflammatory diseases cervical and luminal spondylitis, etc.
- Rakta(Red)-Abdominal pain, rheumatoid arthritis, paralysis and hyperthyroidism.
- Sita( white)-Liver disorder, anxiety, insomnia.
- Pita(Yellow)-Digestive problem, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, etc.
- Nila( Blue)-Snake bite, cholera, gastroenteritis.
All these benefits can be achieved by taking proper mud therapy by consulting an Ayurvedic or Naturopathic specialist.
Form of mud therapy.
- Mud pack
- Mud bath
- Internal use of mud
- Mud pack
It is a local application. Dipping a wet cloth in clean mud and making it multilayer. Then, apply it to the desired area. Leave for 30 min and then remove it.
Benefits:
- Face-Improve complexion, remove acne, pores and dark circles.In India we use Multani mitti on daily basis for healthy glowing skin.
- Head -Headache, migraine and insomnia.
- Abdomen-Good digestion, decreased intestinal heat, abdominal pain and constipation.
2. Mud Bath
Prepared mud is applied on the full body. Then, exposed to normal sunlight covering the head and eyes for 1 hr. Then take a cold water bath.
Benefits :
- Increase blood circulation
- Cure skin disorder
- Natural beauty treatment for a fair complexion.
- Reduce anxiety, hypertension, depression and insomnia
3. Internal use of mud
Specific types of mud are used in specific diseases.
This mud contains silica, magnesium calcium, iron, zinc, and some other organic compounds.
For example, French clay is used in rheumatoid arthritis, food poisoning, allergy, and asthma.
However, this should be taken only by the consultation with a physician.
Conclusions:
- Mud therapy is used in the promotion of health, prevention, and management of many diseases.
- Due to its high mineral content, mud has a drawing effect on toxins and helps in detoxifying and healing.
- It helps to build up your physical and mental health, too.
- But it should only be taken by consulting any ayurvedic or naturopathic specialist as they can guide you with the right treatment according to your body and illness.
Thank you for reading my article. I am a medical student of Ayurveda and I love to share the knowledge that I have gained during my course.
If you enjoyed this comprehensive story you may also check this article written by Dr Mehmet Yildiz, my mentor, introducing us to alternative health improvement solutions including water and soil.
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