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Primary series and original booster provide protection against Omicron infection

Date : 05-Dec-2022

mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against Omicron infections than other variants. A study publishing December 1 in the open access journal PLOS Medicine by Margaret L. Lind at the Yale School of Public Health, U.S. and colleagues suggests that the additional protection offered by the initial booster shot may be reduced among people with a previous COVID-19 infection.

Evidence indicates that primary (two-dose) and original booster mRNA (third dose) vaccination significantly reduces the risk of Omicron-related infection and severe outcomes in the general population. However, the benefit of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination in people who have previously experienced infection remains unclear.

In order to estimate the effectiveness of mRNA vaccination against Omicron infection among people with a prior documented infection, the researchers conducted a test-negative case control study using health records obtained through a COVID-19 study of vaccine-eligible people older than five who had at least one SARS-CoV-2 test in the Yale New Haven Health system electronic medical records.

The study group included 11,307 people who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between November 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022 as well as 130,041 control cases who tested negative in the same time period. The researchers then estimated vaccine effectiveness against infection and additionally whether an original booster dose was associated with increased protection beyond primary vaccination. This was achieved by comparing the odds of infection between boosted and booster-eligible people with and without a documented prior infection.

The researchers found that primary vaccination provided protection against Omicron infection among people with and without a documented prior infection. While original booster vaccination was associated with additional protection against Omicron infection in people without a documented prior infection, it was not found to be associated with additional protection among people with a documented prior infection.

The researchers emphasize that while the initial booster may not provide additional benefits in preventing Omicron infection in some people, it still offers the best protection against severe illness and hospitalization, according to previous studies. This study was limited to Omicron infections and should be considered alongside other existing and future studies examining the relative benefits of booster doses against severe COVID-19 disease among people with and without prior infections. Additionally, this analysis was conducted prior to the distribution of the bivalent COVID-19 booster and the findings are limited to associations between the original vaccines and Omicron infection.

Lind adds, "In this retrospective study, we found that primary mRNA vaccination provides moderate protection against Omicron (BA.1 lineage) infection regardless of prior infection history. However, the relative benefits of an original booster dose against Omicron infection may be affected by a person's history of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection."

Possible novel migraine therapy

Date : 03-Dec-2022

By discovering a potential new cellular mechanism for migraines, researchers may have also found a new way to treat chronic migraine.

Amynah Pradhan, associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Illinois Chicago, is the senior author of the study, whose goal was to identify a new mechanism of chronic migraine, and propose a cellular pathway for migraine therapies. The study, "Neuronal complexity is attenuated in preclinical models of migraine and restored by HDAC6 inhibition, is published in eLife.

Pradhan, whose research focus is on the neurobiology of pain and headache, explained that the dynamic process of routing and rerouting connections among nerve cells, called neural plasticity, is critical to both the causes and cures for disorders of the central nervous system such as depression, chronic pain, and addiction.

The structure of the cell is maintained by its cytoskeleton which is made up of the protein, tubulin. Tubulin is in a constant state of flux, waxing and waning to change the size and shape of the cell. This dynamic property of the cell allows the nervous system to change in response to its environment.

Tubulin is modified in the body through a chemical process called acetylation. When tubulin is acetylated it encourages flexible, stable cytoskeleton; while tubulin deacetylation -- induced by histone deacetylase 6, or HDAC6, promotes cytoskeletal instability.

Studies in mice models show that decreased neuronal complexity may be a feature, or mechanism, of chronic migraine, Pradhan said. When HDAC6 is inhibited, tubulin acetylation and cytoskeletal flexibility is restored. Additionally, HDAC6 reversed the cellular correlates of migraine and relieved migraine-associated pain, according to the study.

"This work suggests that the chronic migraine state may be characterized by decreased neuronal complexity, and that restoration of this complexity could be a hallmark of anti-migraine treatments. This work also forms the basis for development of HDAC6 inhibitors as a novel therapeutic strategy for migraine," the researchers report.

Pradhan said this research reveals a way to possibly reset the brain toward its pre-chronic migraine state.

"Blocking HDAC6 would allow neurons to restore its flexibility so the brain would be more receptive to other types of treatment. In this model we are saying, maybe chronic migraine sufferers have decreased neuronal flexibility. If we can restore that complexity maybe we could get them out of that cycle," she said.

Once out of the cycle of decreased neuronal complexity, the brain may become more responsive to pain management therapies, Pradhan said. HDAC6 inhibitors are currently in development for cancer, and HDCA6 as a target has been identified for other types of pain.

"It opens up the possibility of something we should be looking at on a broader scale," she said. "Are these changes maybe a hallmark of all sorts of chronic pain states?"

Migraine is a common brain disorder that is estimated to affect 14% of the world population. Current U.S. cost estimates for migraine are as high as $40 billion annually. One particularly debilitating subset of migraine patients are those with chronic migraine, defined as having more than 15 headache days a month. Migraine therapies are often only partially effective or poorly tolerated, creating a need for more diverse drug therapies.Story Source:

Materials provided by University of Illinois at Chicago. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

The Hardy Mustard

Date : 02-Dec-2022

Brassica nigra, popularly known as mustard, is one of the oldest spices known. It is one of the most widely used spices in the world. The mustard in fact has quite a story to tell. It finds multiple mentions in the Bible. It has been used as a figure of speech to imply the potential of faith to grow strong and wide, just like the tiny seeds of mustard that grow into strong shrubs. Narratives about its origin are numerous. Archaeologists and botanists claim that mustard seeds have been discovered in Stone age settlements. There is evidence to show that in ancient times the Egyptians used it to flavor their food and the Romans ground them with wine. Its use then spread to Gaul, took root in Europe and kept expanding till it reached the Indian shores with Vasco de Gama in the 16th century. In South Asia, mustard is predominantly used as a spice. But in the West, it is used as a condiment (after being ground with water or vinegar). It ranks in the top 5 list of the world’s most popular condiments. There are three varieties of mustard, the most common being the black, closely followed by the brown and then the yellow.

Cultivation

Mustard is a crop that grows best in cool weather. In warm weather, it tends to flower very quickly, resulting in poor quality flowers and seeds. These plants require very minimal care. The flowers of the mustard plant are generally yellow but some varieties have white flowers too. After the mustard flower grows and matures, it forms pods. The pods gradually turn brown. Harvest time is indicated when the leaves start to turn yellow. If the pods on the mustard seed plant are left for too long, they will burst open when fully ripe and the seeds will be lost. Harvesting calls for the seeds to be removed from the pods. This can be done by hand or the flower heads can be put into a paper bag and allowed to mature. Within a week, a gentle shake of the bag will release most of the mustard seeds. The seeds then have to be properly dried to ensure shelf life.

Uses

As early as the sixth century B.C., Pythagoras recommended mustard as a remedy for scorpion stings. Hippocrates used mustard in medicines and poultices. Though these are ancient practices, mustard is still valued for not just the flavour it adds to food, but also for its anti-inflammatory properties, and its ability to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, migraines and asthma. To top it, all the three versions of mustard contain a very significant amount of edible oil and high-quality protein. In India, these seeds are the second most important source of edible vegetable oil and the residual cakes are used as animal feed. The leaves or mustard greens too are a household staple in India. Popular belief prescribes that a sprinkling of mustard seeds in the courtyard helps to ward off evil spirits.

Golden Drink: Health Benefits of Turmeric Milk

Date : 01-Dec-2022

Turmeric is best known as the most powerful natural antibiotic that has ever existed. People from around the globe keep referring to it as the ‘nature’s most precious gift’. And yet it seems that in the western society the famed herb started to gain popularity only relatively recently.

In short, it’s ginger’s older sister and its main qualities go well past just adding color and flavor to your favorite meals. It is a healing food of medicinal value thanks to its main compound – curcumin. The latter has long been under a watchful eye of the researchers for having undeniable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

And when you pair turmeric with milk you enhance its healing qualities and get yourself a delicious cocktail loaded with immunity-enhancing qualities. The ‘golden drink’, as it’s sometimes called, is traditional for many cultures, especially India where it’s been used for over 5,000 years for treating ailments and strengthening overall health.

Benefits of drinking turmeric milk

1. Ultimate immunity booster

A strong immune system is our biggest insurance against infections and viruses. This precious drink is great for reinforcing overall immunity against a variety of illnesses. Because of its high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties it comes in especially useful when the flu season unfolds. When it happens get used to having turmeric milk right before bed or first thing in the morning.

If you work in an open space with a bunch of people or otherwise closely interact with others on a daily basis, you can use it as an armor against air-borne diseases. Adopt the same mindset if regularly commute to work. Of course, let’s not leave children—who regularly bring home germs—out of the picture. It’s best to start them young on a healthy lifestyle.

Also, the healthful herb and milk alongside other ingredients may benefit heart function and lower the risk of heart disease. They can also generally lower blood sugar levels as well as improve blood sugar control. The powerful qualities of this drink can even fight out cancer cells (see point 7).

2. Cure for cold (long before it starts)

The ‘golden drink’ effectively deals with the first symptoms of a common cold. When the early signs like running nose, sore throat and fever reveal themselves, try this drink before you reach for aspirin. It's not a novelty approach—people have been drinking it for a long time now. In fact, it’s been so long that it has become a traditional remedy for a cough and cold, as well as other infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Turmeric boosts the production of mucus which naturally flushes out harmful bacteria that have already invaded our microbial flora. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties help us conquer infections. At the same time, the already mentioned anti-inflammatory properties help significantly alleviate the symptoms. If you have noticed the slightest red flags pointing in the direction of cold town, get a hold of your favorite mug and fill it up. Drink this golden treat before falling asleep and, hopefully, your symptoms will be long gone by the morning.

3. 911 for a better sleep

Everybody knows the sleep boosting qualities of warm milk before bed. It increases the levels of the hormone called serotonin in the brain and can serve as a perfect cure for insomnia. Moo juice also contains the amino acid called tryptophan which plays the role of an additional serotonin booster. Its levels are too low in milk alone because it can’t stand out amidst other amino acids contained there. Turmeric, however, has the power to turn this fact around. When mixed with dairy it absorbs its amino acids, besides tryptophan, into body tissues. This way the latter becomes completely available for the production of serotonin helping you get to the Land of Nod faster.

4. Gut and liver booster

Many ancient spices are fit for promoting gut health and aiding various digestive tract problems. The same goes for turmeric—it is impressive at tackling indigestion, bloating, heartburn, constipation or diarrhea. Frankly, that is the reason why it is so widely regarded as an important culinary spice. If your body type made you the person that seems to never feel hunger, try a cup of the ‘golden drink’ once a day to promote appetite. And again, talking about children and not just them, a turmeric drink comes in handy when you’re trying to win your battle in your fight against intestinal parasites.

Talking about liver—it is a key player that partakes in a great number of vital processes inside our body: it filters blood, neutralizes toxins and harmful chemicals, synthesizes hormones and turns food to energy. It also aids digestion and proper functioning of the immune system. The famed herb works as a detoxifier and can even dial down the toxic impact of certain injuries to liver tissue. Therefore, it can help prevent liver cirrhosis.

5. Remedy for autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases happen when the proper function of the immune system gets out of hand. Our very own immunity sends its troops against the perfectly healthy cells and tissues when it’s supposed to guard us against foreign agents and uninvited viruses and bacteria. The reason why it happens is still unknown to the science. Even the symptoms of such illnesses may come and go as they please. Often doctors find themselves at a loss and start simply observing such conditions or suppress the symptoms, since there’s always a high chance they will be gone for good and for no reason whatsoever. There are at least 80 different types of such diseases with most common being sarcoidosis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis and other.

This health promoting drink might not be an immediate cure, but it can become a real helper, especially when it comes to skin and joints conditions or problems with digestion. ‘Golden milk’ is a sure way to positively impact our immune system and boost its illness-busting qualities.

6. Relief from the headache

If you suffer from splitting headaches, especially the ones provoked by stress, a cup of this warm drink may be just enough for an effective pain relief. Turmeric is well-known for possessing blood thinning qualities which naturally improves blood circulation. So, if headaches won’t leave you alone, you will be much better off drinking ‘golden milk’ regularly.

7. Weapon against cancer cells

Following meticulous research, using turmeric during conventional chemo treatment has already shown promising results. Its active component curcumin has proven to greatly assist in killing cancer cells and preventing their spread to other areas in lab studies. Anti-cancer properties of the ‘golden milk’ may help halt the growth of tumors and stop cancer cells from spreading further.

एड्स

Date : 01-Dec-2022

एड्स एक ऐसी बीमारी है जो HIV नामक वायरस के शरीर में आ जाने से होती है। इसका फ़ुल फ़ार्म एक्वायर्ड एमीनों डेफिशियेन्सी सिंड्रोम (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome) होता है। एड्स से पीड़ित व्यक्ति का इम्यून सिस्टम कमज़ोर हो जाता है।

एड्स क्या है

एड्स (एक्वायर्ड इम्यूनो डेफिसिएंसी सिंड्रोम) एचआईवी संक्रमण का उन्नत चरण है। यहां शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली कमजोर या विफल हो जाती है। जब कोई कीड़ा काटता है, विशेष रूप से कोई मच्छर, तो यह आपके खून को चूसता है ना कि आपके शरीर में आपके पहले काटे हुए व्यक्ति से चूसे गए खून को इंजेक्ट करता है।

एड्स के जनक कौन है?

ऐसा माना जाता है कि एचआईवी एड्स सबसे पहले कॉन्गो में 1920 के आसपास एक चिंपांजी की वजह से हुआ। बताया जाता है कि कैमरून के जंगलों में एक घायल चिंपांजी ने एक शिकारी को खरोंचा और काट खाया था। इससे शिकारी के शरीर पर भी गहरे जख्म हो गए। इसी दौरान घायल चिंपाजी का खून शिकारी के शरीर में जा मिला और इससे एचआईवी का इंफेक्शन फैल गया।

पहला मामला 'गैटन दुगास' नामक व्यक्ति में मिला। गैटन पेशे से एक कैनेडियन फ्लाइट अटेंडेंट था। माना जाता है कि उसने अमेरिका के कई लोगों को संक्रमित करने के लिए जानबूझकर संबंध बनाए थे। इसी कारण उसे 'पेशेंट जीरो' का नाम दिया गया था

भारत में एड्स का खोज कब हुआ?

भारत में एचआईवी का पहला मामला 1986 में सामने आया। इसके पश्चात यह पूरे देश भर में तेजी से फैल गया एवं जल्द-ही इसके 135 और मामले सामने आये जिसमें 14 एड्स2 के मामले थे। यहाँ एचआईवी/एड्स के ज्यादातर मामले यौनकर्मियों में पाए गए हैं। इस दिशा में सरकार ने पहला कदम यह उठाया कि अलग-अलह जगहों पर जाँच केन्द्रों की स्थापना की गई।

भारत में एड्स का पहला मरीज कौन है?

प्रशिक्षण और सेवाओं के बाद डॉक्टर और माइक्रोबॉयोलॉजिस्ट सुनीति सोलोमन ने विदेशों में लंबे समय तक भारत लौटने का फैसला किया और मद्रास मेडिकल कॉलेज में प्रोफेसर बनीं. 1981 से ही सुनीति एड्स को लेकर हो रहे शोधों से लगातार जुड़ी हुई थीं.एचआईवी की खोज और तकनीकें आ जाने के बाद 1986 में सुनीति ने अपनी स्टूडेंट डॉक्टर सेल्लप्पन निर्मला के साथ मिलकर भारत में एड्स का खतरा जानने का सफर शुरू किया. दोनों ने मिलकर 1986 में चेन्नई की सेक्स वर्कर महिलाओं की बस्तियों से करीब 200 ब्लड सैंपल इकट्ठे किए से 6 सैंपल में एचआईवी की पुष्टि हुई. लेकिन, सुनीति इस टेस्ट को निश्चित करना चाहती थीं इसलिए उन्होंने ये सैंपल अमेरिका की जॉन होपकिन्स यूनिवर्सिटी की लैब तक पहुंचवाए और जांच में एचआईवी की पुष्टि हुई.

पीएम तक पहुंची थी खबर
ये भारत का वो दस्तावेज़ी वाकया है, जहां देश में पहली बार एड्स मरीज़ मिलने का इतिहास मिलता है. इसके बाद हुआ ये था कि एचआईवी के मरीज़ों के बारे में मेडिकल रिसर्च काउंसिल को सूचना दी गई और उसके ज़रिए तत्कालीन प्रधानमंत्री राजीव गांधी तक सूचना पहुंची. इसके बाद अगले कुछ ही सालों में एड्स भारत में बड़ी बीमारी के रूप में फैलने वाला संक्रमण पाया गया. 90 के दशक के आधे बीत जाने के बाद देशव्यापी स्तर पर जागरूकता कार्यक्रम शुरू हुए.

एड्स के बारे में आम गलत धारणा

दुनिया भर में लोगों को एड्स के बारे में कई गलत धारणाएं हैं। ये भ्रांतियां केवल अनपढ़ जनता तक ही सीमित नहीं हैं, बल्कि दुनिया भर के शिक्षित और साक्षर लोग भी एड्स के बारे में विभिन्न मिथकों में विश्वास करते हैं। इसके परिणामस्वरूप एड्स से पीड़ित लोगों के साथ अनुचित भेदभाव हुआ है।

भारत को 2030 तक एड्स मुक्त बनाने का प्रयास

गौरतलब है कि वर्ष 2000 में यू.एन.एस.सी. (United Nations Security Council (UNSC) द्वारा 1308 नामक एक संकल्प को अपनाया गया| इस संकल्प को अपनाने का मुख्य कारण ‘तत्काल एवं असाधारण कार्यवाही’ के माध्यम से एचआईवी/एड्स के कारण उत्पन्न होने वाले खतरों को कम करने का प्रयास आरंभ करना था| इन तात्कालिक एवं असाधारण कार्यवाहियों को एचआईवी/एड्स से होने वाले दुष्परिणामों की रोकथाम हेतु शुरू किया गया था| ध्यातव्य है कि एचआईवी/एड्स यू.एन.एस.सी. प्रस्ताव में वर्णित सबसे पहली बीमारी है, यही मुख्य कारण रहा कि एचआईवी/एड्स के विरुद्ध शुरू की गई इस जंग में अंतर्राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर असाधारण सहयोग प्राप्त हुआ|

धन कटौती का मुद्दा

जैसा की हम सभी जानते हैं कि विकासशील देशों में एचआईवी/एड्स के विरुद्ध जंग में अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संस्थाओं एवं द्विपक्षीय सरकारों द्वारा प्रदत्त समर्थन के बलबूते ही यह मुकाम हासिल हो पाया है, विश्व इस जंग को अंतिम आकार देने की ओर अग्रसर हो पाया है|

हालाँकि यह और बात है कि इस जंग के विरुद्ध जिस स्तर की तैयारी राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर होनी चाहिये थी, वैसी तैयारी और मेहनत कर पाने में भारत असफल रहा है| यह कोई फौरी जानकारी नहीं हैं| इसका प्रत्यक्ष प्रमाण हमें देश की स्वास्थ्य व्यवस्था, इसके एचआईवी/एड्स के प्रति नरम रवैये एवं अनिश्चित फंडिंग से प्राप्त होता है|

वस्तुतः जिसका सीधा असर होता है देश की उस गरीब जनता पर, जिसके पास न तो अपना इलाज कराने के लिये पर्याप्त धन ही उपलब्ध है और न ही संसाधन|

इन सबमें सबसे महत्त्वपूर्ण बात यह है कि पिछले कुछ वर्षों से वैश्विक स्तर पर एचआईवी/एड्स के संबंध में आवंटित धनराशी के प्रसार में उल्लेखनीय कमी आई है|

आँकड़ों से प्राप्त जानकारी के अनुसार, वर्ष 2012 से अधिकतर यूरोपियन देशों की एचआईवी/एड्स संबंधी वित्तीय प्रतिबद्धताओं में उल्लेखनीय कमी आई है|

इसके अलावा, भारत तथा चीन जैसी उभरती हुई अर्थव्यवस्थाओं को एचआईवी/एड्स से उत्पन्न होने वाली बिमारियों के विरुद्ध जंग हेतु प्रदत्त होने वाली फंडिंग के संबंध में भी विदेशी रुख में परिवर्तन आया है|

एक जानकारी के अनुसार, समस्त विदेशी शक्तियों द्वारा एक मत से यह राय प्रस्तुत की गई है कि भारत एवं चीन को अब सहायता राशी लेने के स्थान पर दूसरे गरीब देशों को अनुदान राशी आवंटित करनी चाहिये|

स्वास्थ्य प्रणालियों में एकता

ध्यातव्य है कि बदलते वैश्विक स्वास्थ्य परिदृश्य में एचआईवी/एड्स से उत्पन्न होने वाली बिमारियों से जूझते अधिकतर देशों ने अपनी राष्ट्रीय स्वास्थ्य योजनाओं में ही एचआईवी/एड्स संबंधी योजनाओं को समाहित कर दिया है|

वस्तुतः यही कारण है कि वैश्विक समुदाय अब इन देशों को अनुदान राशी देने में टालमटोल कर रहा है|

इसे भारत के संदर्भ में समझते है| जैसा की हम सभी जानते हैं कि वर्ष 2010 से ही भारत में एचआईवी/एड्स से उत्पन्न होने वाली बिमारियों के संबंध में आरंभ की गई पहलों को अन्य प्राथमिक स्तरीय स्वास्थ्य परियोजनाओं के साथ संबद्ध कर दिया गया है| उदाहरण के तौर पर, राष्ट्रीय एड्स नियंत्रण कार्यक्रम (एन.ए.सी.पी.) को राष्ट्रीय ग्रामीण स्वास्थ्य मिशन (एन.आर.एच.एम.) के साथ समाहित कर दिया गया|

ऐसा किये जाने का परिणाम यह हुआ कि इन दोनों परियोजनाओं के साथ-साथ इनमें एकीकृत परामर्श और परीक्षण केंद्र (आई.सी.टी.सी.), माता-पिता से बच्चे में ट्रांसमिशन होने (पी.पी.टी.सी.टी.) से रोकथाम, रक्त सुरक्षा, यौन संचरित संक्रमण (एस.टी.आई.) सेवाएँ, साथ ही कंडोम संबंधी प्रोग्राम, एक साथ एंटीरेट्रोवाइरल उपचार (ए.आर.टी.) के साथ-साथ कईं अन्य व्यवस्थाओं को भी एक साथ जोड़ दिया गया|

इससे न केवल इसमें लगने वाली धनराशी में कमी आई बल्कि देश की स्वास्थ्य परियोजनाओं ने भी बहुआयामी आकार ले लिया| परिणामतः इसका सबसे अधिक लाभ देश की जनता को ही प्राप्त हुआ|

मिशन 2030

गौरतलब है कि वर्ष 2016 में संयुक्त राष्ट्र महासभा की एक उच्च स्तरीय सभा में, भारत ने एचआईवी/एड्स को सार्वजनिक स्वास्थ्य के खतरे के रूप में प्रस्तुत करते हुए अगले पाँच सालों में इसके संबंध में तेज़ गति से कार्यवाही करने और वर्ष 2030 तक इस महामारी को समाप्त करने का वचन दिया है|

उल्लेखनीय है कि भारत सरकार ने अपनी इस प्रतिबद्धता को पूर्ण करने के उद्देश्य से एचआईवी/एड्स संबंधी कार्यक्रमों को अधिक से अधिक वित्त प्रदान कर इस महामारी को नष्ट करने का निर्णय लिया है|

यहाँ यह स्पष्ट करना अत्यंत आवश्यक है कि भारत ने अपने एचआईवी/एड्स कार्यक्रम के संबंध में बहुत पहले ही विदेशी सहायता पर अपनी निर्भरता को कम कर दिया है| साथ ही बजट एवं अन्य राष्ट्रीय अनुदान राशियों के माध्यम से इस क्षेत्र में फंडिंग को बढ़ाने का निर्णय लिया है|

स्पष्ट है कि इस क्षेत्र में बढती फंडिंग से यह साफ पता चलता है कि भारत में न केवल नीतिगत स्तर पर अपनी प्रतिबद्धता को पूर्ण करने की क्षमता विद्यमान है बल्कि ज़मीनी स्तर पर भी (आर्थिक स्तर) यह एचआईवी/एड्स से निपटने के लिये पूरी तरह से सक्षम है। लेकिन एचआईवी/एड्स संबंधी कार्यक्रमों में हस्तक्षेप करने एवं अन्य स्वास्थ्य कार्यक्रमों को पहले की भाँति सुचारू रूप से संचालित करने में बहुत सावधानी बरतने की आवश्यकता है|

हालाँकि, यहाँ यह भी गौर करने लायक है कि भारत में स्वास्थ्य देखभाल कार्यक्रम कभी भी देश के नीतिगत निर्णयों की प्राथमिकता नहीं रहे है। यही कारण है कि पिछले दो दशकों में तेजी से आर्थिक विकास होने के बावजूद, भारत में जीडीपी के अनुपात में स्वास्थ्य देखभाल पर सार्वजनिक व्यय दुनिया में सबसे कम है।

जागरूकता बनाम कलंक

गौरतलब है कि संयुक्त राष्ट्र द्वारा प्रस्तुत एक रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, एचआईवी/एड्स से पीड़ित लोगों की तीसरी सबसे बड़ी आबादी भारत में निवास करती है| यहाँ प्रत्येक 10 में से 4 व्यक्ति एचआईवी/एड्स से पीड़ित है|

स्पष्ट है कि ऐसी स्थिति में यदि भारत 2030 तक एचआईवी/एड्स को खत्म करने का लक्ष्य बनता है, तो इसे ने केवल अपने सार्वजनिक स्वास्थ्य कार्यक्रमों पर अधिक से अधिक धन व्यय करने की आवश्यकता है बल्कि इस दिशा में और अधिक केंद्रित जागरूकता कार्यक्रम एवं प्रभावी प्रबंध करने की भी आवश्यकता है|

जैसा की हम सभी जानते हैं कि भारत में कई गैर-सरकारी और सामुदायिक आधारित संगठनों द्वारा स्थानीय/राज्य और राष्ट्रीय स्तरों पर एचआईवी/एड्स के बारे में जागरूकता फैलाने के लिये बहुत सी पहलें आरंभ कर रखी हैं|

कई संगठनों द्वारा इस रोग से ग्रसित लोगों के साथ होने वाले असामाजिक व्यवहार एवं उपेक्षाओं और भेदभाव से निपटने के लिये कईं प्रकार के जागरूकता कार्यक्रम भी शुरू किये गए हैं| इन सभी प्रयासों का उद्देश्य अधिक से अधिक लोगों को इस बीमारी के प्रति जागरूक करना तथा अधिक से अधिक लोगों को उपचार करने के प्रोत्साहित करना है|

हालाँकि एक अत्यंत प्रभावी तरीके से इस बीमारी के विरूद्ध जारी की गई जंग को जारी रखना तथा आम जनता को जागरूक करने के साथ-साथ दवाओं की समुचित व्यवस्था करना सरकार के लिये एक चुनौतीपूर्ण कार्य है| तथापि ‘जहाँ चाह वहाँ राह’ की तर्ज़ पर यदि सरकार इस दिशा में वास्तविक कार्यवाही (यानी ज़मीनी स्तर पर प्रभावी कार्यवाही) करती हैं तो 2030 तक इस लक्ष्य को हासिल कर पाना कोई कठिन कार्य नहीं होगा|

Keto Diet vs. Atkins: How They Are Alike and Different

Date : 30-Nov-2022

If you’re browsing for an effective diet plan for weight loss, the words ‘keto’ and ‘Atkins’ will inevitably come up in the search results. The two have a well-earned reputation for being weight-loss-friendly and good for the overall health. The gist of both diets is low-carb intake and lower insulin levels as a result. But in spite of being so similar, there’s more to it. Read on to find out where you stand on ‘ketogenic diet versus Atkins’.

What is Atkins?

No weight loss goal is the reason to deprive our body of vital nutrients and vitamins to a point of starvation. You can feel full and satisfied and still lose weight. And this is the first thing that you need to know about the Atkins diet.

There are two types of it: Atkins 20 and Atkins 40. The former is the original one and helps if you’re planning to lose more than 40 pounds, while the latter is less strict and works great is you want to get rid of 40 pounds and less.

History behind it

Everything has a backstory. Well, here it goes: the Atkins Diet was introduced by a doctor. Back in the 1960s Dr. Robert Coleman Atkins published a book where he explained how low-carb eating can be more effective than any low-fat diet. The book was widely acclaimed and studied for years to come.

How does it work?

Both Atkins diet plans start you off with a moderate carb intake (20 grams in the case of ’20’ plan and 40 grams in Atkins 40), which you are allowed to increase along the way.

When you begin eating less carbs your insulin levels plummet, and your body starts using fat for fuel instead of sugar. This leaves less room for fat storage, hence, you slim down a lot faster.

Carb-wise the original '20' diet is divided into 4 phases:

Phase 1

20-25g of carbs (nuts and seeds, green veggies like broccoli, celery, cucumbers, green beans).

Time frame: First 1-2 weeks.

Phase 2

25-50g of carbs (nuts, seeds, green veggies, tomatoes, legumes, berries, melon, milk and yogurt, cottage cheese).

Time frame: Until you’re 10 pounds away from your target weight.

Phase 3

50-80g of carbs (nuts, seeds, green veggies, tomatoes, legumes, berries, milk and yogurt, cottage cheese, fruit, starchy vegetables, whole grains).

Time frame: Until you reach your goal weight.

Phase 4

80-100g of carbs (same as during the third Phase).

Time frame: This phase lasts for as long as you want, preferably a lifetime to maintain your weight just as you left it during Phase three.

Other foods you're allowed to eat: protein at every meal (fish, poultry, meat, eggs, dairy), healthy fats.

Foods to avoid at all times: sugars (including honey and sweeteners), refined oils, trans fats, all types of processed foods and alcohol.

Atkins 40

It is somewhat similar to the ‘20’ plan. The difference is that in the original diet you gradually add more different carbs making it more versatile. And in the adjusted one you can eat all healthy carbs from the beginning while increasing your carb serving size. You start with eating 40 grams of net carbs a day. Once you’re only 10 pounds away from your goal, you're allowed to add 10 grams each week. But mind that the total carb intake should never exceed 100 grams.

What is keto?

Unlike Atkins, keto (or ketogenic) diet allows scarcely any carbs for as long as you stick to it. In a nutshell it is a high-fat/low-carb diet, with adequate amounts of protein in between.

One of the goals of the keto diet is to boost metabolism. This makes it easier for your body to swap sugar burning for fat burning. As a result you get faster weight loss.

History behind it

Ketogenic diet was introduced back in the 1920s as a cure for childhood epilepsy. It was discovered then that a low-carb diet causes ketosis – a metabolic state in which the body burns fat at an extremely high rate.

How does it work?

Here you get 5-10% of your energy from carbs, 20-30% - from proteins, and the rest 65-80% comes from fats.

When you go low-carb, your body doesn’t get enough sugar to fuel itself. When our body lacks sugar to turn it into energy, it uses fat instead. Your liver then converts fat into ketones – type of acid that your body later uses for fuel. Ketones are considered a cleaner energy source compared to carbs. On a plus side, ketosis also means lower risk of heart disease and improved brain function.

Your ketogenic diet should include:

Low-carb veggies: broccoli, spinach, kale, cauliflower, asparagus.
Fatty fish and meat: herring, ground beef, salmon, caviar, sardines, mackerel.
Full-fat dairy: whole milk, Greek yogurt, cheeses.
Berries and some fruit: blueberries, raspberries, melons.
Healthy fats: olive and sesame oil, avocado and coconut oil, butter.

What keto and Atkins have in common

Both lower sugar levels and use fat as body fuel.
Keep your carb intake very low.
The main goal of both diets is to help you lose weight and keep it off.
You still eat enough protein and fat to keep your body satisfied.
The two don't allow you eat processed and refined foods.

What is the difference between keto and Atkins?

It may seem that keto diet is the same as Atkins. But have a closer look:

Though both diets focus of weight loss, keto is a little more aggressive than Atkins and shows faster results. All because in keto you eat the same amount of carbs every step of the way. Meanwhile Atkins saves you more of those for later.
You don’t exclude fat or protein from either diet. However, in keto most of your calories come from fat. Meanwhile in Atkins you add equal amounts of protein and fats.
Eventually your body will run on ketones and fat, if we talk about keto diet. In Atkins your body can also shift to nutritional ketosis but only during its initial phase. If you don’t want this to happen, simply eat larger quantities of protein.
Which one is better for me?

When it comes to weight loss, keto diet takes the cake. It also keeps your weight steady in a longer run should you stick to it. Many believe it’s because keto is more consistent with carbohydrates than Atkins.

Although the keto diet is more efficient for losing weight, it’s also a real challenge to stick to it, because the amount of carbs you're allowed to eat is simply too low. Not many can find it in them to give up on so many foods for good.

Atkins diet is less rigid, so it may be a good alternative if you’re after weight loss. If we talk about other goals, keto has additional long-term benefits for your health. It can so much as help halt the growth of cancer cells, boost your mental health and prevent or reverse type 2 diabetes.

It all boils down to these three factors that should influence your decision: your body constitution, the state of your health and the goals you pursue. You need to remember that change of a diet is a serious undertaking, and not necessarily what your body needs right now. So, it’s always best to consult with your health care provider before you decide to give either diet a shot.

If you do give any low-carb diet a go, and then decide it’s not for you after all, remember that going back takes time. Don’t rush to ramp up your carbohydrate intake. Especially when pulling away from the keto diet. Going back to larger carb portions overnight leads to spikes in insulin levels and weight gain because of all the sugar your body is no longer used to. What you need to do is gradually increase the amount of carbs per serving.

Stopping aspirin when on a blood thinner lowers risk of bleeding.

Date : 30-Nov-2022

If you're already taking one blood thinner, mounting research suggests you might not need to take a second one.

In fact, when patients who are on a commonly prescribed blood thinner stop taking aspirin, their risk of bleeding complications drops significantly, a Michigan Medicine study finds.

Researchers analyzed over 6,700 people treated at anticoagulation clinics across Michigan for venous thromboembolism, or blood clots, as well as atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm that can cause stroke. Patients were treated with the common blood thinner warfarin but also took aspirin despite not having history of heart disease.

"We know that aspirin is not a panacea drug as it was once thought to be and can in fact lead to more bleeding events in some of these patients, so we worked with the clinics to reduce aspirin use among patients for whom it might not be necessary," said Geoffrey Barnes, M.D., senior author of the study and a cardiologist at the University of Michigan Health Frankel Cardiovascular Center.

Over the course of the study intervention, aspirin use among patients decreased by 46.6%. With aspirin used less commonly, the risk of a bleeding complication dropped by 32.3% -- amounting to one major bleeding event prevented per every 1,000 patients who stop taking aspirin. Results are published in JAMA Network Open.

"When we started this study, there was already an effort by doctors to reduce aspirin use, and our findings show that accelerating that reduction prevents serious bleeding complications which, in turn, can be lifesaving for patients," said Barnes, who is also an associate professor of internal medicine at U-M Medical School. "It's really important for physicians and health systems to be more cognizant about when patients on a blood thinner should and should not be using aspirin."

This de-escalation of aspirin use is based off several studies that found concerning links between concurrent use of aspirin and different blood thinners.

One study reported that patients taking warfarin and aspirin for atrial fibrillation and VTE experienced more major bleeding events and had more ER visits for bleeding than those taking warfarin alone. Similar results occurred for patients taking aspirin and direct oral anticoagulants -- who were found more likely to have a bleeding event but not less likely to have a blood clot.

"While aspirin is an incredibly important medicine, it has a less widely used role than it did a decade ago," Barnes said. "But with each study, we are seeing that there are far fewer cases in which patients who are already on an anticoagulant are seeing benefit by adding aspirin on top of that treatment. The blood thinner they are taking is already providing some protection from clots forming."

For some people, aspirin can be lifesaving. Many patients who have a history of ischemic stroke, heart attack or a stent placed in the heart to improve blood flow -- as well as those with a history of cardiovascular disease -- benefit from the medication.

The challenge comes when some people take aspirin without a history of cardiovascular disease and are also prescribed an anticoagulant, said first author Jordan Schaefer, M.D., a hematologist at U-M Health and clinical associate professor of internal medicine at U-M Medical School.

"Many of these people were likely taking aspirin for primary prevention of heart attack or stroke, which we now know is less effective than once believed, and no one took them off of it when they started warfarin," Schaefer said. "These findings show how important it is to only take aspirin under the direction of your doctor and not to start taking over-the-counter medicines like aspirin until you review with your care team if the expected benefit outweighs the risk."

Additional authors include Josh Errickson, Ph.D., Xiaokui Gu, M.D., M.A., Tina Alexandris-Souphis, R.N., Brian Haymart, R.N., M.S., Eva Kline-Rogers, M.S., R.N., N.P., Suman L. Sood, M.D., MSCE, James B. Froehlich, M.D., M.P.H., all of University of Michigan, Mona A. Ali, Pharm.D., Department of Heart and Vascular Services at Beaumont Hospital, Scott Katz, D.O., Division of Hospital Medicine at Henry Ford Hospital, Jay H. Kozlowski, M.D., Huron Valley Sinai Hospital, Gregory D. Krol, M.D.,Vinay Shah, M.D., both of Department of Internal Medicine at Henry Ford Hospital.

Less gym time, same results: Why 'lowering' weights is all you need to do

Date : 28-Nov-2022

Good news for those who struggle to fit a gym workout into their day: you may be able to cut your weights routine in half and still see the same results.

New research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has shown one type of muscle contraction is most effective at increasing muscle strength and muscle size -- and rather than lifting weights, the emphasis should be on lowering them.

The team, which also included researchers from Niigata University and Nishi Kyushu University in Japan and Brazil's Londrina State University, had groups of people perform three different types of dumbbell curl exercise and measured the results.

It found those who only lowered a weight saw the same improvements as those who raised and lowered weights -- despite only performing half the number of repetitions.

ECU's Professor Ken Nosaka said the results reinforced previous research indicating a focus on "eccentric" muscle contractions -- in which activated muscles are lengthened -- is more important to increasing strength and size of muscles, rather than the volume.

"We already know only one eccentric muscle contraction a day can increase muscle strength if it is performed five days a week -- even if it's only three seconds a day -- but concentric (lifting a weight) or isometric muscle contraction (holding a weight) does not provide such an effect," Professor Nosaka said.

"This latest study shows we can be far more efficient in the time we spend exercising and still see significant results by focusing on eccentric muscle contractions.

"In the case of a dumbbell curl, many people may believe the lifting action provides the most benefit, or at least some benefit, but we found concentric muscle contractions contributed little to the training effects."

Crunching the numbers

The study consisted of three groups who performed dumbbell curls twice a week for five weeks, plus a control group who did nothing.

Of the training groups, one performed eccentric-only muscle contractions (lowering weight), another concentric-only muscle contractions (lifting weight) and another performed both concentric and eccentric muscle contractions (lifting and lowering weight alternatively).

All three saw improvements in concentric strength, but this was the only improvement for the concentric-only group.

The eccentric-only and concentric-eccentric groups also saw significant improvements in isometric (static) strength and eccentric strength.

Most interestingly, despite the eccentric-only group doing half as many reps as those lifting and lowering weights, the gains in strength were very similar and the eccentric-only group also saw a greater improvement in muscle thickness, an indicator of muscle hypertrophy: 7.2 per cent compared to the concentric-eccentric group's 5.4 per cent.

"Understanding the benefits of eccentric-focused training can allow people to spend their time exercising more efficiently," Professor Nosaka said.

"With the small amount of daily exercise needed to see results, people don't necessarily even have to go to the gym -- they can incorporate eccentric exercise into their everyday routine."

Putting it into practice

So how can we put this knowledge to use in the gym?

Using a dumbbell, Professor Nosaka recommends using two hands to help with the concentric (lifting weight) phase, before using one arm for the eccentric phase (lowering weight), when performing:

Bicep curls
Overhead extension
Front raise
Shoulder press

Using leg weight machines, Professor Nosaka recommends using the same concentric/eccentric technique when performing:

Knee extensions
Leg curls
Calf raises

Looking after home bodies

Happily, Professor Nosaka says you don't need gym weights to apply the same principles to a workout and has come up with several simple exercises one can do at home.

In the exercises, feel that the contracting muscles are gradually stretched from the start to the end of the range of motion.

After each eccentric muscle contraction, minimise the effort to go back to the starting position (i.e., concentric muscle contraction).

Repeat 10 times for each exercise.

Chair sit: From a half-squatting position, sit down slowly on a chair in three seconds, (narrower and wider stances will create different effects). If this is easy, try to sit down with one leg.

Chair recline: Sit on the front of a chair to make a space between your back and the backrest, recline back slowly in three seconds (arms can be crossed at the chest or hold at the back of a head).

Uneven squat: Stand behind a chair, lean to one side to put more weight on one leg, then squat down in three seconds.

Heel down: Still behind a chair, lean forward and raise your heels. Then, lift one leg off the ground and lower the heel of the other leg in three seconds.

Wall kiss: Lean against a wall with both arms fully extended. Bend the elbow joint slowly over three seconds until your face gets close to the wall.

Front lunge: Place one leg in front of the other and bend the knees deeper over three seconds.

'Comparison between concentric-only, eccentric-only and concentric-eccentric resistance training of the elbow flexors for their effects on muscle strength and hypertrophy' was published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology.

The Food of Maharashtra: A Sweet and Tangy Journey

Date : 26-Nov-2022

The expression “Indian food” always invokes a riot of flavours arising out of the incredible diversity of the country’s landscape, climate and cultures. The culinary culture of Maharashtra can be best explained from a similar perspective. The landscape of this state presents a patchwork of food habits ranging from the briny flavours of the coastal areas to the rustic flavours of the inner mainland. Apart from certain signature dishes that have found a place in restaurant menus throughout the country (such as Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji), traditional Maharashtrian food is relatively unknown beyond the confines of the state. Maharashtrian cuisine is one of the most wholesome and underrated cuisines of the Indian subcontinent.

Let us proceed by elaborating further upon the regional diversities of Maharashtra. The territory of Maharashtra can be divided into the following regional formations: Konkan, Desh, Khandesh, Marathwada and Vidarbha. The climatic and cultural peculiarities of every region are reflected in the ingredients and tenor of its food. The Konkan region is the coastal belt of Maharashtra and comprises primarily of the districts and cities of Raigad, Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Mumbai and Thane. As is true for most coastal areas, rice and fish are the staples of this region. A specialty of this cuisine is saltwater fishes dipped in a variety of sour-sweet gravies that pair beautifully with steamed rice. Konkani cuisine itself is quite diverse and includes several-sub cuisines such as Malvani and Saraswat Brahmin. Moving inwards from Konkan, one reaches the region known as Desh that includes the main districts of Pune, Satara and Kolhapur. This region historically formed the centre of the Maratha empire. The spicy Kolhapuri cuisine of this region offers a peek into the eating habits of the royals.

Towards the north of Desh is the Khandesh region comprising chiefly of the districts of Nashik, Jalgaon and Ahmednagar. The food of this region reflects culinary influences from neighbouring states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat. For example, items such as Dal Baati(Rajasthan) and Shev (Gujarat) find a place in the menu of the region. As the area is often visited by drought, hardy crops such as jowar and bajra thrive here. Moving further inland, one comes across the sun-kissed land of Marathwada. This is a hot and arid region where the custom of sun-drying vegetables is quite common. This region includes the districts of Nanded, Beed, Latur, Jalna, Aurangabad and the surrounding areas. To the north of Marathwada lies the Vidarbha region which forms the north-eastern boundary of the state of Maharashtra. This region which includes the districts of Nagpur, Amravati, Chandrapur, Akola and Bhandara, is rich in forest and mineral resources. Although a part of the Maharashtra state, this region has a distinct culture assimilating influences from the neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Telangana. Crops such as jowar, bajra and toor form the staples of the region. A specialised culinary tradition of this region is the Saoji which also bears the influence of Gujarati and Marwari cuisines.

However, it is similarities rather than differences that impart the Maharashtrian cuisine a distinct flavour of its own. In Marathi culture, food is considered equivalent to God – “anna he poornabrahma.” A typical Maharashtrian Phodni or tempering (using ghee and select spices) is bound to tantalize the olfactory senses of a Marathi Manus irrespective of regional affiliation. Food, in this culinary culture, is mostly sautéed, stir-fried or slow-cooked under pressure. Fish is shallow-fried and meats stewed until succulent. Vaafavneor steaming is a technique used frequently before items are fried. Cereals such as jowar and bajra, and pulses like toor and Bengal gram are the staples throughout the state, except for the coastal areas where rice is more prevalent. Another defining characteristic of Maharashtrian cuisine is a distinct sweet and sour flavour. Traditionally, jaggery or puran is the favoured sweetener, although sugar is used in equal measure nowadays. A tropical fruit called kokum is used as a souring agent (primarily in the coastal regions) for dishes and imparts a unique pink or purple colour to the food. Another commonly used souring agent is tamarind. A ubiquitous ingredient is coconut, used either in fresh or dried/ powdered form. Peanuts too are added to a wide variety of dishes and form the base for various delectable chutneys. Peanut oil is also used for cooking in the region. The traditional way of setting a platter is known as Taat Vadhany in which all the dishes and accompaniments of a thali (platter) are arranged in a particular order. While salt is placed at the top-centre of the Taat (plate), the dessert occupies the left side of the base. To the left of the salt are served accompaniments to the main meal such as a lemon wedge, chatni, salad etc., and to its right are served the vegetables and the main course or curry, followed by papad and bhakris. Rice is always served in an evenly shaped mound, garnished with ghee.

One of the most beloved and homely dishes of the state is Amti- a Maharashtrian rendering of the common daal. This variety of daal is made out of toor. The use of kokum or tamarind, coconut and jaggery provide this dish with its characteristic sweet, tangy and spicy flavour. However, the most important ingredient is the Goda masala - a unique blend of spices including cumin, cinnamon, pepper, coriander, ajwain, cloves and sesame (to name a few). Another popular dish, which is as much a part of the regular household menu as of feasts and special occasions, is Bharli Vangi. The dish is prepared by stuffing raw eggplant with a lip-smacking mixture of coconut, peanuts, Goda masala, tamarind and onions. The stuffed eggplants are cooked until they absorb the flavour of the spices and attain a soft texture. The dish is best enjoyed with bhakris or flatbreads made (most commonly) out of jowar, bajra and (sometimes) wheat.

Saffron: The Red Gold

Date : 24-Nov-2022

The name Saffron has its origins in the Arabic word zafaran which means yellow. Botanically, wild saffron is known as Crocus cartwrightianus, while the commercially cultivated saffron is botanically called Crocus sativus, which is also the name of the flower. One of the most expensive spices in the world, saffron is also referred to as “red gold”. Its history spans over more than 3500 years. The Romans used it as a deodorizer, the Egyptian healers used it to treat gastrointestinal ailments and it is said that Cleopatra used saffron for cosmetic value. Saffron crocus has been predominantly cultivated in Iran and Kashmir. A very labour intensive crop, Saffron is a highly coveted spice and is often considered to be more valuable than gold!

It is a spice that comes from the stigmas of the purple flowers of the plant Crocus sativus. Each flower contains three stigmas that are handpicked and then dried to make the saffron spice. It takes thousands of flowers to produce a few grams of saffron. The stigmas are typically of an orange-red colour, which is due to the content of crocetin, a type of acid and crocin. While buying saffron, it is important to keep in mind that the best kind of saffron has a deep red colour, a honey-like aroma with a delicate but musky taste.

Cultivation-

For the cultivation of saffron, fertile soil is the basic requirement. Climate too plays a big role in saffron cultivation. While on the one hand, during summers the plants need extreme heat and dryness, on the other hand, in winter they require extreme cold. Damp and hot conditions damage the saffron crop. The plant can tolerate extremely low temperatures (even less than minus ten degree Celsius). In fact, maximum growth takes place during the winters. Hence, in India, the regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka are considered ideal for their cultivation. Saffron is collected from the blossoms of Crocus sativus(Iridaceae), commonly known as saffron crocus or saffron bulbs. These bulbs are called corms, which are underground compressed stems. Each corm (a fleshy bulblike root) forms new bulbs, and this is how the plant multiplies. These corms are planted in summer for an autumn harvest.

Saffron Harvesting-

It is this process of harvesting that makes saffron so expensive. It starts flowering within 3 to 4 months of planting. If planted in June, then ideally the plant should flower by October. Harvesting has to be done just before sunrise - at the first appearance of light in the sky. Basically, the flowers should be plucked before the sun gets too hot. The strands are then dried in the sun for 5 to 6 days, after which they are packed in airtight containers. More than a lakh of flowers are crushed to make one kilogram of saffron. The whole process is very tedious and labour intensive. This is one of the reasons behind its high pricing. It is said that growing saffron is not hard, the difficult part being making a profit from the saffron one harvests.

Uses-

Saffron is a natural spice and hence it is an excellent replacement for synthetic food additives. Saffron has also been used as a fabric dye and in perfumeries, particularly in China and India. It is also used as an insecticide or pesticide. It is nicknamed the “sunshine spice”, not just due to its colour, but because it also aids in brightening one’s mood. It is said that both the saffron petals and thread-like stigma are effective in treating mild depression. The presence of crocin in saffron makes it a very powerful spice that is high in antioxidants. Studies have shown that due to its high antioxidant feature, it helps in killing cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. In fact, saffron has numerous health benefits, as it helps with issues related to the heart, eyesight, memory and even diabetes. Saffron is a stimulant tonic and very effective to treat cold and fever.