How does the nose purify the air?

 How does the nose purify the air?

The nose is a major organ of the body and plays a role in breathing, smell recognition.

It is necessary to understand the structure and function of the nose, and its cleanliness and care are important.

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of the nose and hygiene measures, such as Jalneti and Nasya.

The nose is an important part of the human body, which plays an important role in breathing, smell recognition and facial beauty. The nose is an external organ of the body, which is directly related to the external environment. Dust particles in the environment, various viruses that cause infections enter the human body through the nose. Allergic 'protein' particles also reach the body through the nose.

Should the nose be cleaned? What should be done to keep the nose healthy? Not much attention is paid to this. Sometimes our attention goes to the nose only when the nose is blocked or when breathing is uncomfortable.

Structure of the Nose

According to Dr. Arun Adhikari, a nose, ear and throat specialist, the structure of the nose can be divided into two parts: external and internal. The outer part of the nose consists of the nasal bridge, the tip of the nose, and the nostrils.

“The upper part of the nose is made of bone, while the lower part is made of cartilage,” says Dr. Adhikari, “which gives shape to the nose. The skin of the nose is thin at the top and thick at the bottom.”

The internal structure of the nose includes the nasal passage, mucous membrane, sinuses, turbinates, and olfactory receptors. The nasal passage is the hollow part of the nose that starts at the two nostrils and ends at the throat. The inner part of the nose is lined with mucous membrane, which blocks dust, germs, and other particles.

There are four pairs of sinuses around the nose, which help in breathing, Adhikari said.

According to him, the turbinates are bony structures inside the nose that warm, moisten, and filter the air. The upper part of the nose contains odor-detecting receptors, which connect to the brain and provide information about odor.

Function of the nose

The nose mainly performs functions such as breathing, detecting odors, warming or cooling the air, protecting the lower respiratory tract, and changing the voice when the nose is blocked, says Dr. Adhikari.

The nose lets air enter the respiratory tract, says Dr. Adhikari, “It filters, warms, and moistens the air, which keeps the lungs healthy. The nose and sinuses also act as an environmentally friendly ‘air conditioner’.

The nose recognizes odors, which are transmitted through the nerves of the brain. He said that this is also helpful in recognizing the taste of food and obtaining information about the environment.

The hair and mucus of the nose block dust, germs, and other harmful particles. The nose helps to make the voice clear and quality. The sinuses make the facial bones lighter and help in breathing, says Adhikari.

“When any foreign object or particle enters through the nose, the nose reacts and sneezes, which prevents those foreign particles from reaching the lungs. In this way, the nose also helps protect our lower respiratory tract,’ says Dr. Adhikari.

This is how the nose purifies the air

The small hairs at the entrance to the nose prevent dust, dirt, and large particles from entering the respiratory tract, Dr. Adhikari said.

According to Adhikari, the layer of mucus on the inner surface of the nose traps small particles, bacteria, and viruses. This mucus traps pollutants in the air and only clean air reaches the lungs.

Small hair-like structures called cilia located inside the nose help to remove or send particles stuck in the mucus to the throat, so that those particles can be swallowed or coughed out, said Adhikari.

‘The nose warms and humidifies the outside air to body temperature, which provides the lungs with suitable air. It also reduces some pollutants in the air, says Adhikari, adding that the enzymes and antibodies in the nasal mucus help destroy bacteria and viruses.

Importance of the nose in Ayurveda

The nose has special importance in Ayurveda because it is the main route of breathing and is considered the gateway to life air. The nose plays an important role in physical, mental and spiritual health, explains Ayurvedic physician and psychologist Dr. Shanti Timalsina.

According to Timalsina, in Ayurveda, the nose is considered the foundation of physical and spiritual health. Regular care of it, practices like nasya karma and pranayama work to keep the body and mind healthy and balanced.

‘The life air that enters through the nose controls all the functions of the body. Breathing maintains the balance of dosha vata, pitta and kapha. Correct breathing through the nose calms the mind and energizes the body.

What to do to keep the nose healthy?

Impure air reaches the lungs through the nose. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of the nose. But to keep the nose clean and healthy, it should not be scratched carelessly. It should not be cleaned unnecessarily. Avoid dust and pollution, do not smoke, and use a mask if you have to go to polluted places, says Dr. Dhundiraj Poudel, a nose, ear, and throat specialist.

Drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in vitamin C. Dr. Poudel says that foods rich in vitamin C help increase the body's immunity. 'You should drink water and plenty of fluids to keep the nose, mouth, and throat cool,' says Dr. Poudel. 'This helps prevent the entry of bacteria or viruses. When the nose and throat are dry, viruses or bacteria can multiply. 

If any symptoms are gradually increasing, he suggests consulting a doctor immediately.

Nose-related problems

Viruses cause nasal congestion, runny nose, etc. When there is a sinus infection, symptoms such as headache, nasal congestion, fever, etc. occur. Dust, pollen or other allergies can cause nasal congestion, sneezing, etc., said Poudel.

The problem of flesh growing inside the nose, which hinders breathing. When the nasal bone is crooked, it becomes difficult to breathe. Dr. Poudel says that nosebleeds can also occur due to dry environment, injury or high blood pressure.

How to clean the nose?

Generally, it is not necessary to clean the nose. The structure of the nose is not such that it needs to be cleaned. The nose is cleaned as soon as the congestion appears. However, Ayurvedic doctor Timalsina says that Ayurveda mentions the method of cleaning the nose.

According to Timilsina, Ayurveda mentions the Jalaneti method for cleaning the nose. Jalaneti is an ancient and natural practice. In this process of cleaning the nose, the nose is washed with salt water to remove dirt from the nose. It also helps get rid of pimples, prevents dirt from accumulating in the nose and also removes accumulated germs. Jalaneti helps to make it easier to breathe properly while practicing any yoga.

She suggests that this practice should be done only under the supervision of a yoga instructor and Ayurvedic doctor for the first time. “Pranayam done through the nose such as Anulom-Vilom also cleanses the nose and balances the chakras,” says Timilsina.

‘Nasya’ is an important treatment in the Panchakarma of Ayurveda, in which medicinal oil, ghee or powder is used through the nose. Nasya cures head, nose, throat and brain-related diseases such as migraine, sinus, insomnia. The nose is considered the gateway to the brain, so she said that nasya increases mental clarity and memory.

What are the health risks of repeatedly frying samosas and jerry in oil?

 What are the health risks of repeatedly frying samosas and jerry in oil?

Experts say, ‘Reusing oil increases the risk of heart attack, cancer and other diseases.’

Repeated heating of oil has a negative impact on health as it causes chemical changes and increases the amount of trans-fat.

It is recommended to store oil properly and use new oil.

Often, samosas, pakodas, jerry, etc. are cooked in the same oil repeatedly in chowks and markets. Some people even use the remaining oil after cooking food once in their own homes and kitchens. What happens when oil is used repeatedly in this way?

Experts say, ‘Reusing oil increases the risk of heart attack, cancer and other diseases.’

Not only at home but also in restaurants and roadside stalls, food is prepared by reheating oil. This has a negative impact on health. This can be responsible for many diseases, says senior nutritionist Bhupal Baniya.

Health effects of reusing oil

1. Chemical changes and increase in trans-fat

Repeated heating of cooking oil changes its chemical and nutritional properties. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology (2021), repeated heating of oil increases the amount of ‘total polar compounds’, which is harmful to health.

These compounds damage the structure of the oil and increase the level of trans-fat. Bania says that trans-fat increases the risk of heart disease by increasing the amount of bad cholesterol.

According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition 2020, reheated oil produces free radicals, which damage cells. Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which increases the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

2. Cancer risk

Harvard T.H. A study by the Chan School of Public Health (2022) noted that reheated oil produces toxic substances such as aldehydes.

These substances can damage DNA, which encourages the growth of cancer cells. In particular, the oil used in fried foods is repeatedly heated, which increases the amount of these toxins, Bania said.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Cancer (2019), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in reheated oil increase the risk of cancer in the lungs, skin and other organs. This risk is especially high in fried foods in hotels and restaurants, where the oil is heated for a long time.

3. Inflammation

Reheated oil promotes inflammation. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2021), the production of free radicals and other harmful compounds in reheated oil damages blood cells. Chronic inflammation can lead to diseases like heart disease, joint pain, atherosclerosis, and periodontitis.

4. Bacterial infections

When food particles remain in the oil, they encourage the growth of bacteria, says nutritionist Ayush Adhikari. He says, “If used oil is not stored properly, it can lead to the growth of bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. This is a serious food poisoning that can cause muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and other complications.”

5. Increase in cholesterol and acidity

According to a study published in the European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology (2023), the amount of saturated fat and oxidized lipids in repeatedly heated oil increases.

These compounds increase cholesterol levels, which harm the heart and blood vessels. In addition, the use of such oil can cause acidity, gas and digestive problems in the stomach, said Adhikari.

Ways to avoid reusing oil

Adhikari says that reusing oil can be avoided by cooking less. He says, "Do not use more oil than necessary and cook in small quantities. This reduces the chances of oil remaining."

You should try to use fresh oil every time you cook. If oil remains, he suggests storing it properly. After the used oil cools down, it should be carefully filtered to remove food particles. This prevents the growth of bacteria, said Adhikari.

"If oil is left over while cooking, it should be stored properly," says Adhikari. "The oil should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight and heat. Keeping it in the refrigerator reduces the growth of bacteria."

To avoid health problems caused by reusing oil, nutritionist Baniya suggests staying away from fast food and packet food. “These foods should be consumed less frequently as heated oil is frequently used in roadside stalls and restaurants,” says Bania.

He also says that it is important to avoid heating oil for a long time while cooking.

“When cooking, use mustard oil, olive oil or other oils with low saturated fat,” suggests Bania. “These oils are less harmful to heart health.”

Different oils have different smoke points. For example, olive oil is suitable for use at low heat, while sunflower or canola oil can be used at high heat. He also suggests paying attention to these things.

According to Bania, if there is a change in the color, smell or texture of the oil, it should be discarded. No. Such oil may contain high levels of harmful compounds, so the quality of the oil should be checked before use.

Dieting for weight loss can affect mental health

 Dieting for weight loss can affect mental health

During dieting, balanced meals and nutrients are necessary, which have a positive effect on mental health.

There is a deep connection between mental health and weight management, and excessive dieting can increase stress and anxiety.

Nowadays, many people are suffering from obesity due to poor lifestyle and poor diet. Physical activity is gradually decreasing in people's lives. If you work in one place for 8 hours a day, it is normal for excess fat to accumulate in the body. However, no one likes a protruding belly. This is why people adopt various measures to reduce excess belly fat and weight.

In such a situation, some people often resort to dieting to keep themselves fit and lose weight. Is dieting a good way to lose weight? Does it affect health, especially mental health?

Does dieting affect mental health?

There is a deep connection between mental health and weight management, which slightly but deeply affect each other. Losing weight is good for health. If dieting is done in a balanced way to lose weight, there is no problem. However, if dieting is done in an excessively restrictive and pressured way, it can negatively affect mental health. This can make a person face problems such as increased stress and anxiety.

Eating less food during dieting can lead to stress and anxiety due to not getting the vitamins and minerals that the body needs, which can cause emotional problems and have a negative impact on mental health.

Eating less food during dieting and not getting enough nutrients in the body can cause problems such as irritability and mood swings in people. In addition to being stressed during dieting, people often start comparing themselves with others, which can lead to low self-esteem and increased stress.

In addition, obesity is also linked to mental problems such as depression. This can increase the risk of emotional problems and make the situation worse, which can seriously affect mental health.

Dieting can cause muscle loss in places where you lose weight

If you eat less or skip meals altogether to lose weight, you will start losing muscle in places where you lose weight. When you eat fewer calories than your body needs, you may lose muscle instead of losing weight. This is because your body does not get the energy it needs.

When you do not eat or eat less, your body starts burning muscle to make energy. This can damage your muscles. In such a situation, instead of reducing or stopping food to lose weight, you should eat a balanced diet.

How to diet for good mental health?

Taking care of mental health

It is more important to focus on mental health than losing weight. During dieting, nutrients necessary for mental health, such as healthy fats and nutrient-rich foods such as walnuts and almonds, should be included in the diet.

Keeping the body hydrated

During dieting, you should keep the body hydrated by drinking enough water. Not drinking enough water can cause problems like headaches, fatigue, and irritability. Keeping the body hydrated helps to relax the mind, maintain emotional balance, and increase concentration.

Eat small meals

Eat small meals to maintain energy in the body and keep the mood stable. Healthy fats should be included in the diet. This helps improve brain function and maintain emotional balance.

Exercise regularly

Exercise can help fight the risk of depression along with obesity. Exercise reduces stress hormones in the body, which is beneficial for both mental and physical health. It is an effective way to lose weight as well as symptoms of depression.

What are the negative effects of dieting?

Dieting can cause health problems such as lack of energy in the body, weakening of bones, low metabolism, and mood swings. Sometimes women may also have problems related to menstruation. . Therefore, you should consult a doctor before dieting.

What are the symptoms of mental problems?

Mental health problems can cause symptoms such as mood swings, difficulty concentrating, excessive stress, anxiety, sleep problems, irritability, fatigue, and changes in appetite. These symptoms should not be ignored.

Is weight loss a side effect of depression?

Depression affects metabolism, which can cause weight loss in some people and weight gain in others. However, severe depression can lead to weight loss.

What should be the diet and lifestyle during the rainy season?

 What should be the diet and lifestyle during the rainy season?

The rainy season lasts from Asar to Bhadra. According to Ayurveda, various changes occur in the body during this time.

Light and digestible food and regular hygiene and exercise are necessary during this time.

Health and immunity can be increased during the rainy season by adopting home remedies and precautions.

The rainy season adorns Nepal, including the Indian subcontinent, from Asar to Bhadra. According to Ayurveda, the rainy season is associated with the elements of water and air. This time is a time of nourishment and transformation. It is believed that during this season, there are significant changes in the properties of the atmosphere and environment, which can affect our physical and mental health.

This season is considered a period of purification and removal of toxins because rain is seen as a natural cleanser, which washes away toxins and impurities from the atmosphere and the earth.

There are generally 6 seasons in Nepal. Ayurveda science has a special discussion on routine and seasonal habits. Each season has a separate description of diet, habits and lifestyle.

Dr. Dipen Devkota MD, Kayachitika

The rainy season, i.e. the rainy season, which usually falls from Asar to Bhadra, is considered a very sensitive time for our body. According to Ayurveda, the environment is cold and humid during this time, which can be a major cause of imbalance in the Vata dosha in the body.

In addition, when the summer heat ends and the cold begins, our digestive power also weakens, which is called ‘Mandagni’ in Ayurveda. Therefore, during the rainy season, food is not digested properly, gas, indigestion, joint pain, fatigue, laziness, skin diseases, colds and other problems may appear.

Therefore, Ayurveda emphasizes the need to take special care during the rainy season. To keep the body in balance during this time, special attention should be paid to diet, sleep, exercise and thinking. Keeping all these things in mind and following the seasons is called Ritucharya in Ayurveda.

What to eat during the rainy season?

During the rainy season, eating too much oily, spicy, sour or cold food is not good for our body. Therefore, we should eat light and digestible food during the rainy season. It is considered best to use a diet rich in sweet, sour, salty and fatty foods. It is good to eat foods made from old barley, wheat and sali rice dishes like anna. Similarly, foods such as meat of land animals and meat juice processed with spices, khichdi, hot dal rice, dal soup, wine made from grapes, corn bread, hot vegetable soup, and greens are suitable.

It is good to drink hot water. It is better to avoid eating raw milk, curd, chiura, ice cream, cold drinks during this time, because such foods increase the problems of gas, indigestion as well as vata and phlegm.

It is good to use sesame oil, ginger, cumin, asafoetida, turmeric, pepper, etc. in food, which strengthens the digestive power and balances vata and phlegm. It is best to eat hot food as much as possible, on time and in small quantities.

What to do from morning to night?

It is considered good to wake up early in the morning during the rainy season. Massaging the body with oil improves blood circulation and reduces joint pain. It is good to take a warm bath after massaging with sesame oil. Then you can do light exercises or yoga, such as Vajrasana, Trikonasana or Shavasana. Serious exercises, excessive intercourse or running too much should not be done, because the digestive power is weak.

Putting 2-2 drops of sesame oil or neem oil in the nose in the morning can prevent cold, headache or allergy. To avoid cold, it is necessary to wear warm, light clothes and keep the body dry. It is not good to sleep during the day during the rainy season, it weakens the digestive system even more. You should eat light food at night. Do not sleep immediately after eating, it is better to wait at least 2 hours. The bed should be clean and comfortable. You should sleep with your body covered to avoid back pain or cold.

Natural Treatments and Home Remedies

Since the immune system decreases during the rainy season, it is good to take some Ayurvedic medicines regularly. Triphala, Guduchi (Giloy), Haritaki, Dashamool, Hingwashtak powder, etc. are helpful in improving digestion and increasing the immune system. Ginger and honey, basil leaves, turmeric water, pepper, etc. can be used at home. Boiling basil, ginger and pepper in hot water once a day and drinking it can prevent colds, coughs and infections.

Water, environment and our behavior

Special precautions should be taken while drinking water in the rain. Drink lukewarm water that has been boiled and cooled as much as possible. Do not drink water from rivers, tanks or mud. Also, walking in water, getting wet or staying in very cold places can cause diseases in the body.

If your clothes get wet, dry them immediately. It is advisable to carry an umbrella or wear a raincoat when going out to protect yourself from rain or getting wet. It is very important to keep the area around the house clean, to prevent the accumulation of garbage, to prevent water from stagnating, and to prevent the spread of weeds.

Washing your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating, and keeping your surroundings clean can help prevent the spread of diseases. It is also important to avoid things like overexertion and prolonged exposure to the sun.

Mental and emotional health

Due to less sunlight and the outbreak of asthma during the rainy season, some people may feel mentally tired, irritable, or sad. Therefore, it may be a good idea to think positively, engage in laughter, meditate and yoga, listen to music, or read a favorite book.

Advice for children, the elderly and the sick

Children, the elderly and those who are already sick should take special care during the rainy season. Keeping them warm, feeding them hot food, protecting them from cold and giving them regular oil massages will increase their immunity. It is important to consult a doctor before using any medicine.

Although the rainy season is naturally a pleasant time, it is challenging for the body. If we adopt a seasonal lifestyle as prescribed by Ayurveda, we can live a healthy, energetic and disease-free life even during the rainy season. By following Ayurvedic Ritucharya by adopting cheap, easy and home remedies, the body gains the strength to fight diseases on its own.