National Youth Day: Experts suggests ayurvedic help to combat health ailments

National Youth Day is celebrated in India to mark the birthday of Swami Vivekananda every year on 12th January and is also commemorated to highlight the youth related problems and needs. Mental health issues or stress among youth are more pervasive than one may think; affecting one in five young people, of which fewer than 25 per cent receive treatment.

Ayurvedic physicians’ highlight the availability of natural remedies to cure youth related health ailments in ayurveda. As per the WHO reports, worldwide 5 per cent of all deaths of young people between the ages of 15 and 29 are attributable to alcohol use. In some countries up to 60 per cent of all new HIV infections occur among 15-24 year olds.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth, after accidents, accounting for 24 per cent of all deaths among youth aged 15 to 24 years. More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than the combined toll due to cancer, cardiac problems, AIDS and other chronic diseases. The reason for suicidal tendency among youth is high competition, youths' unaddressed emotional problems, unemployment, pressure from society etc., they resort to bad habits like smoking, drinking, drug consuming etc.

Acharya Balkrishna, Ayurvedic Physician and co-founder, Patanjali Yogpeeth said, “In Ayurveda, stress is called as ‘Vishada’. This is also described as “one of the most disease aggravating factors” leading to other numerous disorders. Herbs known as adaptogens are beneficial in alleviating stress. Ayurvedic preparations like intake of Brahmi (Bacopamonnieri) help relax mind and bring it to a comfortable state. Other herbs like Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jatamansi (Nardostachysjatamansi), Ashwagandha (Withaniasomnifera), Guduchi (Tinosporacordifolia) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) also helps in relieving stress. Tulsi oil is known for its anti-stress, anti-oxidant and anti-depressant properties.”

Dr Ketan Mahajan, Sr. Physician, Patanjali Yogpeeth expressed, “As evidence from statistics and the experience shows that adolescents who are healthy and happy are better equipped to contribute to their communities. Effectively addressing the special needs of these youth is a critical challenge for the future.”

“It is important to attend to these issues with proper care and management through PanchaKarma, Yoga and Pranayama. Bhastrikapranayam, Kapalbhanti, Anulom-Vilom are especially useful during stress. Since stress reduces the body’s immunity, nutritious diet is very beneficial in counteracting this depletion. Hence, avoid maida flour and sugar products, frozen, preserved and leftover food. As far as possible, avoid carbonated and alcoholic drinks as well. Always eat lots of fresh green vegetables, fruits and fruit juices. Include whole grains and cereals in regular diet as they promote the production of the brain neurotransmitter serotonin, which induces a greater sense of well-being,” he further added.