Almond oil is an amazing rejuvenating ingredient used since time immemorial for enhancing the glow. Almond oil has been enriched with linoleic acid & vitamin E & antioxidants which accentuate the beauty of your skin.
Almond oil is yellowish oil extracted from the seeds of the Prunus dulcis tree. It belongs to the family Rosaceae. Almonds are edible seed with great nutritive value. They are abundant source of vitamin E antioxidants.
Almonds are native to southwestern Asia, and grown primarily in Mediterranean climates. California [U.S.A] is the major producer of almonds in the world [ around 80 percent of the global production].
There are two varieties of almonds:
sweet almond (P. dulcis, variety dulcis) and bitter almond (P. dulcis, variety amara). Sweet almonds are the edible type consumed as nuts and used in cooking or as a source of almond oil or almond meal.
Uses of almond oil
Almond oil is used for various purposes :
Cosmetic use
Food preparation
Pharmaceutical use
Others
How does almond oil rejuvenate your skin?
The ageing skin
Skin ageing happens through the synergistic activity of intrinsic as well as extrinsic factors. The intrinsic factors include genetics, cellular metabolism, hormone and metabolic processes. The extrinsic factors of ageing include chronic light exposure, pollution, ionizing radiation, chemicals, toxins.
Apart from the factors leading to normal process of ageing exposure to sun is linked with detrimental effects on skin. UV rays of sun cause premature ageing and it is called photo ageing.
The premature photoaged skin typically shows a thickened epidermis, mottled discoloration, deep wrinkles, laxity, dullness and roughness. Gradual loss of skin elasticity leads to sagging. Slowing of the epidermal turnover rate and cell cycle lengthening worsens aged look of the skin.
Severe loss of fibrillin-positive structures as well as a reduced content of collagen type VII lead to wrinkles in sun exposed prematurely ageing skin. The sparse distribution and decrease in collagen content in photoaged skin may be due to increased collagen degradation by various matrix metalloproteinases, serine, and other proteases irrespective of the same collagen production.
Glycosaminoglycans are among the main dermal skin matrix constituents that help in binding water. In photo-aged skin, these constituents may be associated with abnormal elastotic material and their functions on skin are impaired.
The total hyaluronic acid level in the dermis of skin that age intrinsically remains stable but epidermal Hyaluronic acid diminishes markedly.
UV-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) are causing photo damage to skin. Wrinkling and pigmentation are the main visible changes of photo ageing.
These factors may act conjointly damaging the skin and overtime the skin appears dull, dry, lusterless and parched.
The primary goal of any skin anti-aging therapy is to achieve a healthy, smooth, blemish-free, translucent and resilient skin. There are various cosmetic procedures and therapies to rejuvenate the skin and repair it. Here we share the natural methods of rejuvenation of skin and in which the potential of almond oil is discussed.
The role of antioxidants on skin
The antioxidants can reduce collagen degradation by reducing the concentration of free radicals in the tissues.
Antioxidants act by:
directly neutralize free radicals
reduce the peroxide concentrations and repair oxidized membranes
quench iron to decrease ROS production
short-chain free fatty acids and cholesteryl esters neutralize ROS through lipid metabolism
Almond oil in reducing the impact of ageing
Almond oil is rich in Vitamin E antioxidants and help to rejuvenate the skin and hair follicles of scalp. It can also remove fizziness of hair. Applying almond oil on your skin and hair everyday may help you get glowing radiant skin and hair.
The antioxidants in almond oil may remove free radical induced damage to your skin. It nourishes skin deeply removing pigmentation and exfoliating the dead tissues.
The almond oil contains vitamins E and K that help skin regeneration and maintain its elasticity.
Almond oil is rich in antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) and phenolic compounds, which protect against oxidative stress, reduce lipid peroxidation and enhance antioxidant enzymes.
Almond oil has emollient and sclerosant properties and, therefore, has been used to improve complexion and skin tone.
Almond oil is extensively used in the cosmetic industry, particularly in dry skin creams, anti-wrinkle and anti-aging products.
Almond oil works as a good moisturizer for your skin and hair. It brings back the supple look of your skin through intense nourishing.
Almond oil used in aroma therapy
Almond oil is one of the best essential oils used in aromatherapy and massage therapy as it helps to remove dryness of skin easily and it helps to rejuvenate body and mind due to its nice aroma.
Recommendations
For better results in your anti-ageing journey eat a handful of almonds daily. The nutritive value of almonds is very high as they are enriched with vitamin E and other antioxidants.
R.K Narayan, one of the prominent literary figures of India who uplifted Indian literature into the western literary world in the beginning of 20th century has more than 200 novels, as well as short stories and plays in his credits. Most of his works feature the social context and the quintessential mundane life. His is the renowned author of Malgudi days
Narayan’s distinctive writing style and narrative have been compared with those of Guy de Maupassant by many stalwarts. R. K. Narayan was a distinctive personality in the literary world with his unpretentious expression of a natural element of humour in his works.
Most of his works narrate the stories of common man and his trials and trepidations of life, driving the readers to life experiences that relate to the theme mostly. Throughout his literary journey he wrote explicitly about the intricacies of Indian society without any deviation from his unique characteristic simplicity. His writings had the distinctiveness of the use of nuanced dialogic prose with gentle Tamil overtones based on the nature of his characters. This distinctive style of writing gifted R.K Narayan the sobriquet ‘the Indian Chekhov in the literary horizon’.
Anthony West of The New Yorker opined that Narayan’s writings were of the realism genre of Nikolai Gogol.
Somerset Maugham, The famous English writer on a trip to Mysore in 1938, ardently wished to meet Narayan. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen and Maugham subsequently happened to read Narayan’s book ‘The Dark Room’ and he made a note to Narayan, expressing his admiration about the work.
A glimpse into the private life of R.K. Narayan
Early childhood days
R. K. Narayan was born in a Tamil Brahmin family on 10 October 1906 in Chennai, in the state of Tamil Nadu. He was born as the second child to his parents and his father was a school headmaster and mother a home maker. His grandmother had a great role in his upbringing as he resided with her for a significant part of his childhood in their ancestral home. During that period grandmother taught him arithmetic, mythology, classical Indian music and Sanskrit. In the family mostly the members conversed in English, and grammatical errors on the part of Narayan and his siblings were scowled down. This exposure to English language in daily life might have influenced him later when he set his foot into the literary career.
Narayan had studied at a succession of schools in Madras, including the Lutheran Mission School in Purasawalkam, C.R.C. High School, and the Madras Christian College Higher Secondary School.
He was a voracious reader during his childhood days and he read avidly works of Dickens, Wodehouse, Arthur Conan Doyle and Thomas Hardy.
Young Narayan – the genesis of a writer
Later Narayan moved to Mysore to live with his parents when his father was transferred to the Maharaja’s College High School. The library at the school and his father’s own collections gave him more access to reading, and here he started writing as well.
In 1926 Narayan joined Maharaja College of Mysore and secured a bachelor’s degree. For a brief stint he worked as a school teacher; however, he left the job when he was asked to work as a substitute for the physical training master. This incident prompted him to choose writing as a profession.
His first published work was a book review of Development of Maritime Laws of 17th-Century England. Later he started writing for English newspapers and magazines although it was not a well-paid job which could earn a livelihood. However, he took a firm decision to continue with writing career as family whole heartedly supported it even in the adverse financial circumstances.
In 1930, Narayan wrote his first novel, Swami and Friends, but initially it was confronted with rejection. Later Narayan created Malgudi, a town that was a symbolic cross section of the prevailing society in his works.
Narayan worked as a reporter for a Madras-based daily called ‘The Justice’ dedicated to the rights of non-Brahmins and the job gave him acquaintances with a large network of great people.
Narayan had sent the manuscript of Swami and Friends to a friend at Oxford, and about this time, the friend showed the manuscript to Graham Greene a well-known writer of his time. Greene helped Narayan publish the book in 1935 with his recommendation. The book was semi-autobiographical and had reference to his childhood memoirs.
Narayan’s second novel “The Bachelor of Arts” published in 1937 again with the recommendation of Graham Grene. The theme discussed in the novel had been inspired by the college experiences of the author. It was a narrative that chronicled the transformation of a rebellious adolescent to a mature well-adjusted man.
He published the third novel The Dark Room in 1938 and received good reviews from the readers. The book discussed domestic or marital discord, that depicted the oppression suffered by women under male chauvinism.
In 1937, Narayan’s father died, and Narayan was forced to accept a commission from the government of Mysore as he was not making sufficient income.
Darkest moments of life inspiring to find solace in writing
Later R.K Narayan got married with Rajam but that marriage didn’t last long as his wife died of typhoid in 1939. The untimely demise was traumatic to Narayan and he fell into the abyss of grief and the void the loss had created, for a longtime. He never thought of a remarriage and his prime concern was their daughter Hema, who was only three years old when her mother died. The dejection and despair of his loss in life inspired him to return to writing, perhaps he could find solace in scribbling and the outcome was the novel ‘The English Teacher.’ This book also was autobiographical.
Narayan himself acknowledged that The English Teacher was almost entirely an autobiography, albeit with different names for the characters and the change of setting in Malgudi; he also explains that the emotional narrative in the book reflected his own grief related to his wife’s death. His first collection of short stories, Malgudi Days, was published in November 1942, followed by The English Teacher in 1945.
In between, being cut off from England due to the war, Narayan started his own publishing company, Indian Thought Publications; the publishing company was a success and is still active, currently managed by his granddaughter.
Gradually R.K. Narayan’s novels achieved fame and recognition in far-flung areas. By 1948, he accumulated wealth and built a big house and bought a luxury car of his times. In the meanwhile, Narayan wrote the story for the Gemini Studios also for the film Miss Malini.
In 1951 he published his book The Financial Expert, which is regarded his masterpiece and hailed as one of the most original works of fiction. The next novel, ‘Waiting for the Mahatma’ was a work based on the fictional visit to Malgudi by Mahatma Gandi.
In 1953, his works were published in the United States for the first time, by Michigan State University Press.
The Guide was written while he was visiting the United States in 1956 on the Rockefeller Fellowship. While staying in the U.S., Narayan had the habit of maintaining a daily journal these scribblings later served as the cornerstone for his book ‘My Dateless Diary’.
During a visit to England, Narayan could meet his friend and mentor Graham Greene for the first time in life directly. Grene was his mentor cum supporter in the initial years of publishing of his books.
The Guide was published after his return to India and the book is the embodiment of Narayan’s writing skills and elements such as ambivalent expressions coupled with a riddle-like conclusion. He was honored with Sahitya Academy Award in 1960 for this book.
The Man-Eater of Malgudi, was released in 1961. The book was reviewed as having a narrative that is a classical art form of comedy, with delicate control. After the launch of this book, R.k Narayan visited the U.S.and Australia. He got recognition in India and abroad as an accomplished and talented author of fiction portrayed in a realistic style.
Narayan was a columnist for magazines and newspapers including The Hindu and The Atlantic during that time.
Setting foot on mythology &translation of epics
In 1964, Narayan published his first mythological work, Gods, Demons and Others, a collection of rewritten and translated short stories from Hindu epics.
In 1938, he embarked on a translating journey first translating the Kamba Ramayanam to English and it was published in 1973, after long five years of meticulous researching. Subsequently, Narayan started working on a condensed translation of the Sanskrit epic, the Mahabharata.
Adopting unexplored paths and styles in writing &life
Narayan embarked on a new theme of work and published, The Painter of Signs. Here he took a deviation from his regular plot and experimented with hitherto unaddressed subject of sex in it.
He was elected as an honorary member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters and won the AC Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature during this time. Around the same time he rose to international fame and Narayan’s works were translated to Chinese for the first time.
In 1983, Narayan published his next novel, A Tiger for Malgudi, about a tiger and its relationship with humans.
His next novel, Talkative Man, published in 1986, was the tale of an aspiring journalist from Malgudi. During this time, he also published two collections of short stories: Malgudi Days (1982), a revised edition including the original book and some other stories, and Under the Banyan Tree and Other Stories, a new collection.
In 1987, he completed A Writer’s Nightmare, another collection of essays about topics as diverse as the caste system, Nobel prize winners, love, and monkeys. The collection included essays he had written for newspapers and magazines since 1958.
Living alone in Mysore, Narayan developed an interest in agriculture. He bought an acre of agricultural land and tried his hand at farming. He loved walking to the market every afternoon to interact with the people. Perhaps his social connections are reflected in his novels from the earlier years onwards as a writer.
R.K Narayan – a revolting visionary in politics
In 1980, Narayan was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, for his contributions to literature. During his entire six-year term, he was focused on one issue—the plight of school children, especially the heavy load of school books and the negative effect of the system on a child’s creativity, which was something that he first highlighted in his debut novel, Swami and Friends.
His inaugural speech highlighted this issue and resulted in the formation of a committee chaired by Prof. Yash Pal, to recommend changes to the school educational system.
In 1990, he published his next novel, The World of Nagaraj, also set in Malgudi. Narayan’s age shows in this work as he appears to skip narrative details that he would have included if this were written earlier in his career. Soon after he finished the novel, Narayan fell ill and moved to Madras to be close to his daughter’s family. A few years after his move, in 1994, his daughter died of cancer and his granddaughter Bhuvaneswari (Minnie) started taking care of him in addition to managing Indian Thought Publications.
Narayan then published his final book, Grandmother’s Tale. The book is an autobiographical novella, about his great-grandmother who travelled far and wide to find her husband, who ran away shortly after their marriage. The story was narrated to him by his grandmother, when he was a child.
In May 2001, Narayan was hospitalised. He died a few days later on 13 May 2001, in Chennai at the age of 94.
Awards &recognitions
Narayan’s early works were compared by critics to that of E. M. Forster, an author who shared his dry and humorous narrative. Often Narayan was labelled as “The South Indian E. M. Forster” by critics and followers. However, Narayan’s work and the linguistic simplicity was not well appreciated by later generation writers. His writings were criticized by some as of a pedestrian style with a shallow vocabulary and a narrow vision. Yet R.K Narayan is one of the most revered and read authors of India and west. He stands out as the luminous star in the literary firmament due to his unique style of simplicity in writing and connectedness with mundane life.
In a career that spanned over many decades Narayan was honored by many accolades and prestigious awards such as :
the AC Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature,
the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan, India’s second and third highest civilian awards
the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest honour of India’s National Academy of Letters.
He was also nominated to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
In 1964, he received the Padma Bhushan
In 1980, he was awarded the AC Benson Medal by the (British) Royal Society of Literature
In 1982, he was elected an honorary member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature multiple times.
In 1986, he was honored by Rajyotsava Prashasti from Government of Karnataka.
He had been conferred with several honorary doctorates by the University of Leeds (1967), Delhi University (1973) and the University of Mysore (1976).
in 2000 nation honored him by awarding India’s second-highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan.
Narayan’s greatest contribution to Indian literature is that he uplifted the Indian literature to the zenith of glory in the western world being a representative of the common man. He is regarded as one of the three eminent Indian fiction writers, writing in English language including Raja Rao and Mulk Raj Anand.
Persimmons are yellowish orange coloured nutritious, edible fruits enriched with vitamins A, C, E, and K,& minerals like potassium, manganese, and copper, along with various types of antioxidants. All these nutrients of persimmon are associated with immense health benefits.
Persimmons are available in a wide variety of species and the mostly consumed variety is Japanese persimmon. The fruits of persimmon are abundant sources of Fibers which help digestion. In addition, it has nutrients which support immunity, vision, improve heart health.
The antioxidants of persimmon are capable of fighting inflammation and delaying premature aging.
Apart from eating this ripe delicious fruit, persimmon has culinary uses also particularly in preparing delicious desserts.
Botanical information about persimmon
Persimmon is an edible fruit tree belonging to Ebenaceae family and genus diospyros. It is commonly cultivated in warm regions in various parts of the globe including China, Korea, Japan, Brazil, Turkey, and Italy& Mediterranean region.
The fruit tree originated in China around 2000 years ago and later it spread to Japan, Korea and all over the world.
Around 400 species of persimmon are planted globally. Out of these, Diospyros kaki, Diospyros virginiana, Diospyros oleifera, and Diospyros lotus are of great significance.
Diospyros.kaki (Japanese persimmon) is considered as the most loved persimmon by the people worldwide. It is also the most widely cultivated species of persimmon. Typically, the tree grows to a height of 4.5 to 18 metres
The leaves of persimmon tree are deciduous and bluish-green in color. In autumn, they turn to yellow, orange, or red. The ripe fruit of the cultivated strains range from glossy light yellow-orange to dark red-orange depending on the species and variety.
The fruit of persimmon has an astringent taste when unripe, due to the presence of tannins in them. As the fruit matures tannin levels fall down and it becomes sweeter and more delicious.
Persimmons may be stored at room temperature (20 °C or 68 °F), where they will continue to ripen. It is recommended that consuming only ripe persimmon is safe in raw form.
Nutritious value of persimmon
Persimmon is well-known for its nutritious value. The fruit is comprising 80.3 % water, 0.58 % protein, 0.19 % total lipids, 18.6 % total carbohydrates
Persimmon also contains some minerals such as magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, etc.in adequate amounts.
It provides up to 1.48 g and 7.5 mg total dietary fiber, and ascorbic acid respectively. Dietary fiber is present in persimmon in the amounts of 1.20-1.76 % and soluble fiber accounts for 0.52-0.92 %.
Persimmon also contain calcium and potassium in traces.
However, Sugar content (12.5 g/100 g) is higher in persimmon compared to other daily consumed fruits such as apple, peach, pear and orange etc. Among sugars sucrose, glucose & fructose) are plenty.
Persimmons are abundant storehouse of antioxidants. They include proanthocyanidins ,flavonoid oligomers, tannins, phenolic acids and catechin etc. Carotenoids and tannins are found in good amounts.
The major phenolic compounds of persimmon include epicatechin, ferulic acid, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, vanillic acid, and p-coumaric acid. Persimmon is rich in carotenoids especially β-carotenes.
The bioactive components present in persimmon especially carotenoids and tannin are helpful in neutralizing free radicals, decreasing cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure & cholesterol), and reducing the risks of diabetes mellitus along with effectiveness against cancer insurgence.
The phenolic compounds antioxidants and dietary fiber are the main constituents responsible for the cardioprotective effects of persimmon.
The condensed tannins and flavonoids also contributes towards antioxidant potential of persimmon thus can be considered as effective agents to prevent various lifestyle related disorders.
The carotenoids and catechins also have some anticancer potential.
Health benefits of persimmon
Antioxidant properties
Persimmon contains carotenoids, polyphenols, ascorbic acid &vitamin E that have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants prevent free radical damage to the body and thus prevent many grave diseases. Most of these bioactive components scavenge free radicals, bind metals, and inhibit the lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, they improve skin health also.
Boosts heart health
Persimmon has great role in reducing bad cholesterol. This cholesterol lowering properties of persimmon help to prevent risk of heart attack. Apart from dietary fibers, minerals and essential trace elements present in persimmon can prevent coronary atherosclerosis and its complications. The cholesterol lowering effects of persimmon and its products are due to decreased cholesterol absorption, cholesterol & fatty acids production.
Boosts immunity & reduces infections
Persimmon is enriched with vitamin C which is a major immunity boosting nutrient. Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant also which prevents development of various organ diseases.
Improves digestion
The Fibers in persimmon helps to improve gut motility and digestion. They also help to reduce cholesterol.
Helps eye health &vision
Persimmon is rich in vitamin A and beta carotenoids which help to improve vision& health of eyes.
Boosts skin health & glow
Persimmon is an abundant source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and plenty of antioxidants. These nutrients impart a radiant glow to the skin boosting collagen and skin health. Antioxidants help to minimize the free radical induced damage to the skin from various sources. Thus, it helps anti-ageing.
Safety & caution
Fully ripe Persimmon is an immensely nutritious fruit with good effects. However, some people may be sensitive or allergic to this fruit as with to many other foods. In such cases, if intake of persimmon cause vomiting, stomach upset etc. better avoid eating them.
Unripe persimmons are toxic to body as they contain the soluble tannin shibuol, which, upon contact with a weak acid, polymerizes in the stomach and forms a gluey coagulum, a “foodball” or phytobezoar, that can affix with other stomach matter
Persimmon intake is recommended only in moderate amounts for diabetics as the fruit has a little higher glucose and fructose content while it contains various other vital nutrients to prevent lifestyle diseases.
Some interesting facts about persimmon
For many centuries, Japanese people love to drink persimmon leaf tea. Persimmon leaf tea is called Kaki-No-Ha Cha in Japanese language and it is prepared from the dried leaves of Diospyros kaki or Japanese Persimmon.
Persimmon fruits are eaten fresh, dried, raw or cooked forms.
Dried persimmon fruits are known as gotgam and are used to prepare the traditional Korean spicy punch sujeonggwa
In Taiwan, fruits of astringent or unripe persimmon varieties are sealed in jars soaked in limewater to get rid of the bitterness. Later these slightly hardened varieties are sold as “water persimmon” (shuishizi).
Persimmons can be used in various dessert dishes, most notably pies. They can be used in cookies, cakes, puddings, salads, curries and as a topping for breakfast cereals.
Buddhist art of Indian subcontinent (c. 150 BCE – c. 500 CE) has imbibed the art of other religions & geographical regions due to foreign influence overtime. Sanchi, Bharhut and Amaravati are embodiments of Buddhist art forms. Buddhist stupas and sculptures were built during the reign of various dynasties who ruled the subcontinent
Buddhism in Indian artan overview
Indian art forms are huge in number and it encompasses painting, sculpture, pottery, and textile arts. When you mention Indian arts it includes the art forms of Indian subcontinent existed since many centuries. Geographically, the art spans a wide area encompassing the current India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and at times eastern Afghanistan.
The Indian art forms are intricately crosslinked with the religions of the subcontinent. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and Islam have been depicted in the art marvellously.
Foreign influence on Indian art can be seen in various art forms of Indian subcontinent. Central Asia, Iran, and Europe had tremendous influence in developing Indian art due to overseas trade relations with this land.
Sanchi, Bharhut and Amaravati are embodiments of Buddhist art forms with statues and stupas. In these sites stupas are surrounded by ceremonial fences with four profusely carved toranas or ornamental gateways facing the cardinal directions. The Buddhist art monuments are built in stone, though clearly adopting forms developed in wood. Mathura was the most important centre in this development, which applied to Hindu and Jain art as well as Buddhist.
The caves at Ajanta, Karle, Bhaja etc. contain ancient sculptures. Buddhists gave emphasis on making statues of Buddha, influenced by Hindu and Jain religious figurative art.
Greko-Buddhist influence
The Greko-Buddhist influence on art was evident after the conquests of Alexander the Great. This fusion developed in the far north-west of India, especially Gandhara in modern Afghanistan and Pakistan.
BuddhistArt during reign of Kushana empire
The Indian Kushan Empire who reigned northern India had built large statues that were portraits of the royal dynasty
Kushan Empire (c. 30 CE – c. 375 CE) was a syncretic empire in central and southern Asia, From 127 to 151 CE,[ Gandhara] reached the zenith of its glory under the reign of Kanishka. In this period, Kushan art inherited the Greko-Buddhist art.
Mahayana Buddhism flourished, and the depictions of Buddha as a human form first appeared in art wearing a monk’s robe and a long length of cloth draped over the left shoulder and around the body.
The distinctive feature of Gandharan art is its connection to naturalism of Hellenistic art. The naturalistic features seen in Gandharan sculptures include the three-dimensional treatment of the drapery, with unregularized folds that are in realistic patterns of random shape and thickness.
The physical form of the Buddha and his bodhisattvas are well-defined, solid, and muscular, with swelling chests, arms, and abdomens in these art works.
BuddhistArt during Shunga dynasty’s reign
The Buddhist stupa from the Shunga Dynasty is The Great Stupa at Sanchi, believed to be founded by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka c. 273 BCE – 232 BCE during the Maurya Empire. The Great Stupa was enlarged to its present diameter of 120 feet, covered with a stone casing, topped with a balcony and umbrella, and encircled with a stone railing during the Shunga Dynasty c. 150 BCE – 50 BCE.
In addition to architecture, another significant art form of the Shunga Dynasty is the elaborately moulded terracotta plaques. As seen in previous examples from the Mauryan Empire, a style in which surface detail, nudity, and sensuality is continued in the terracotta plaques of the Shunga Dynasty. The most common figural representations seen on these plaques are women, probably goddesses, who are mostly shown as bare-chested and wearing elaborate headdresses.
BuddhistArt during Shatha vahana dynasty rule
Satavahana dynasty (c. 1st/3rd century BCE – c. 3rd century CE) built Amaravati Stupa, the Karla Caves, and the first phase of the Ajanta Caves.
Relief sculptures of Buddhist figures and epigraphs written in Brahmi characters are often found in divine places specific to Buddhism.
To celebrate the divine, Satavahana people also built stone images as the decoration in Buddhist architectures.
Furthermore, the Satavahanas coins made primarily in copper, lead and potin depicts arts of the period.
Gupta art (c. 320 CE – c. 550 CE) of Buddhism
The Gupta period is the golden era for north Indian art and it is found in the Ajanta Caves; the surviving works are chiefly religious sculptures. The period witnessed the emergence of the iconic carved stone deity in Hindu art, as well as the Buddha-figure and Jain tirthankara figures.
The prominent centres of sculpture were Mathura Sarnath, and Gandhara, perhaps the last the centre of Greco-Buddhist art.
Buddhist art in current India
Most of the Buddhist art forms as sculptures, stupas, paintings still exist in Indian subcontinent although a few are in a dilapidated condition due to adverse climate, invasions and wars. In current India one can find Buddhist monuments in various states.
West Bengal: Bharatpur Buddhist Monastery Complex.
These monuments of art at various historical destinations may provide any art afficianados or visitors an elaborate account of the emergence and growth of Buddhism in the subcontinent and how its ideologies rooted in this land. The history Buddhism and art is inseparably merged with the geopolitical history of Indian subcontinent and visiting these destinations may enkindle the principles of Ahimsa and nonviolence in the traveller’s mind and soul along with the aesthetic and visual appeal the monumental arts can offer.
Our ecosystems and its sustainability are intricately linked to numerous factors ranging from human activities to climate change which operate conjointly. The conservation of ecosystem is crucial for the existence of mankind and biodiversity in the coming decades as degradation or decline of ecosystem is associated with natural catastrophes which can wipe out numerous species from this earth forever.
To conserve the integrity of our ecosystem fundamentally an understanding about the structure and function of ecosystems is crucial.
What constitutes an ecosystem?
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms including plants, animals, microbes which interact with each other and the non-living environment (water, soil, air, sunlight) as a functional unit. An ecosystem is characterized by nutrient cycles and energy flows, and can range in size from a puddle to a forest or ocean. The term “ ecosystem “ was first introduced by British biologist Sir Arthur Tansley in 1935.
Ecosystem is regarded as the functional unit of ecology which is the study of our environment and its organisms. Ecosystems denote the interactions between living organisms and their environment.
Ecosystems can be classified in different ways. It can be natural, such as forests, oceans, and grasslands, or human-made, such as agricultural systems and urban areas..
Over a few decades the idea of “ conservation of ecosystems” is fostered all over the globe due to the increased awareness about its role in disaster risk reduction which is simply denoted as Eco-DRR. Natural disasters of high magnitude as well as man-made catastrophes are potent enough to erase many species including mankind or a part of ecosystem altogether.
Moreover, human survival is dependent solely on the ecosystem that provide food, water, and other essential resources.
However, it is a fierce fact that human activities pose great threat to our ecosystem in the form of deforestation, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources. The long-term sustainability and the preservation of this planet earth for future generations is a task that requires tireless efforts for conservation of ecosystem.
Geohazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and tsunamis could be the consequences of ecosystem degradation and vice versa can happen causing extinction of the ecosystems.
Ecosystem conservation refers to the protection, management, and restoration of ecosystems, and it focuses on maintaining their structure, function, and the biodiversity they support. This strategic movement is implemented giving emphasis to the interdependence of species and their habitats.
Ecosystem conservation strategies underscore the establishment of protected areas, habitat restoration, and the integration of biodiversity conservation.
Types of Ecosystems
1.Terrestrial Ecosystems:
Terrestrial ecosystems are those that are found on land, such as forests, grasslands, and deserts.
Grassland ecosystem is dominated by grasses and herbs.
Forests include the plants, trees, animals µorganism. Forests act as a major carbon sink and regulate temperature and climate.
2.Aquatic Ecosystems: Aquatic ecosystems include sources of water, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes.
Tundra ecosystem is the arctic and Antarctic terrains covered with snow.
3.Urban Ecosystems:
Urban ecosystems are those man-made urban areas, such as parks, gardens, and green roofs.
Examples for ecosystems
The Amazon rainforest is a natural complex ecosystem that contains a diverse range of plant and animal species. The Amazon rainforest ecosystem is under threat of extinction from deforestation and climate change.
The Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is a complex marine ecosystem that includes a diverse range of marine species. The reef is under threat of extinction or degradation from pollution and climate change.
Agricultural Systems: Agricultural systems are human-made ecosystems that are used to produce food and other resources. These systems can be managed to promote sustainability and conservation.
Major issues demanding Ecosystem Management and Conservation
Habitat Loss:
Habitat loss caused by human activities such as deforestation and urbanization can endanger the biodiversity of ecosystems in various ways. Deforestation causes massive biodiversity loss through habitat destruction and species extinction.
Furthermore, it can accelerate climate change releasing stored carbon, reducing CO2 absorption. Deforestation also disrupts water cycles altering rainfall, increasing floods or droughts. It causes severe soil erosion reducing fertility and eventual desertification.
Pollution:
Environmental pollution degrades the health of ecosystems. Air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination erode the structure of ecosystems. Toxins build up in organisms and become more concentrated up the food chain. This is called bioaccumulation. Heavy metals, pesticides, plastics, and air contaminants (NO3, SO2) bioaccumulate and eventually lead to genetic damage, reproductive failure, and alter the ecosystem resilience.
Pollutants annihilate organisms either directly or by destroying habitats, cause species extinction.
Overexploitation of Natural Resources:
Overexploitation of natural resources cause habitat loss, biodiversity decline, soil erosion, water scarcity and disrupting food webs. For instance, overfishing and mining, undermine the sustainability of ecosystems.
Invasive Species:
An invasive species is a non-native organism (plant, animal, microbe) that spreads aggressively in a new environment, causing harm in multiple ways. They outcompeting with native species disrupt the ecological balance. It is a mammoth threat to biodiversity and ecosystem as they can cause extinctions as well as threaten endangered species. To be termed as invasive, they must adapt quickly, reproduce rapidly, and cause significant damage. Eg: kudzu vine, zebra mussels, and lionfish.
Ecosystem Management and Conservation
Ecosystem management and conservation involve the following:
Understanding Ecosystems:
Understanding the structure and function of ecosystem involves understanding the interactions between living organisms and their physical and chemical environment.
Monitoring Ecosystems:
Monitoring ecosystems means collecting data on ecosystem structure and function. This data is used to inform management decisions and track changes in ecosystem health.
Ecosystem Restoration:
Ecosystem restoration is the process of restoring degraded ecosystems to their natural state. This process includes reforestation, habitat restoration, and water quality improvement.
Sustainable Use:
Sustainable use of ecosystems involves using natural resources in a way that ensures their long-term sustainability. This can involve activities such as sustainable forestry, fisheries management, and agricultural practices.
Policy and Regulation:
This involves establishing laws and regulations that promote sustainable use and conservation of ecosystems.
Conclusion
To sustain on this planet for the generations in the decades and centuries yet to come, we need to conserve our ecosystems from today. Moreover, there is a dire need to mitigate the impact of bioaccumulated toxins in the food chain to survive on this planet at least for the average life span, keeping the quality of life in good state, free from morbidities. To achieve this daunting task a strategic management plan has to be implemented by authorities with participation of common people to preserve the resources and biodiversity with its ecosystem for the posterity.
Aloe Vera is a widely and extensively used ingredient in cosmetic industry since its potential in anti-ageing of the skin is unraveled. Aloe Vera is one of the best natural agents capable of reducing fine lines and wrinkles on the ageing skin. Its potential to intensely hydrate your skin providing a moisturized, supple look makes it the favorite ingredient in many brands of face packs.
Aloe is a plant that grows in hot, dry climates in subtropics. The scientific name of Aloe vera is Aloe barbadensis miller. It belongs to Asphodelaceae (Liliaceae) family.
Aloe Vera plant has triangular, fleshy leaves with serrated edges. Its flowers may be yellow tubular and its fruit contain numerous seeds.
The leaves of Aloe Vera are composed of three layers. An inner clear gel that contains 99% water and rest is made of glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols and vitamins. The middle layer of latex with the bitter yellow sap contains anthraquinones and glycosides.
The outer thick layer has protective function and helps to produce carbohydrates and proteins.
The story of Aloe Vera while flipping through the pages of history.
Aloe Vera has been used as a cosmetic since antiquity. The ancient Greek scientists had given this plant great importance. The Egyptians considered Aloe Vera as “the plant of immortality.”
The name Aloe Vera is derived from the Arabic word “Alloeh” meaning “shining bitter substance,” while “vera” in Latin means “true.”
Aloe Vera has gathered immense popularity since time immemorial as a medicinal plant in Greece, Egypt, India, Mexico, Japan and China for centuries.
It is a curious and interesting fact that Egyptian queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra used Aloe Vera gel as one of the main ingredients of their regular beauty regimes.
The Macedonian emperor Alexander the Great, and Italian explorer and navigator Christopher Columbus were aware of its healing properties and used aloe vera to treat wounded soldiers.
Aloe vera is grown in dry arid regions of India, mostly cultivated in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Nutritive value of Aloe vera
Aloe Vera is an abundant source of several important vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A (beta-carotene), C and E, which are antioxidants. Aloe Vera is also a great source of vitamin B12, folic acid, and choline. Minerals calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc are also present in Aloe Vera.
Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of enzyme Bradykinase. It helps to reduce excessive inflammation when applied to the skin topically.
Good effects of Aloe Vera on your skin
Aloe Vera has been a gathering unprecedented significance in the cosmetic industry, as various clinical trials and studies have vividly suggested the potential of aloe Vera as a good moisturizing and hydrating agent for the skin. It is an excellent topical agent having anti-ageing properties and used for enhancing the beauty of skin reducing wrinkles considerably.
Aloe Vera is used as one of the major ingredients in several natural face packs and hair packs to accentuate the beauty.
Aloe Vera possesses several properties beneficial to skin &hair.
Antioxidant properties
Aloe Vera is rich in vitamins A (beta-carotene), C and E, which are antioxidants and helps to remove or free radicals causing oxidative stress to your skin.
Anti-inflammatory action
Bradykinase enzyme in aloe Vera helps to reduce excessive inflammation to the skin as a topical agent
Antibacterial properties
Aloe vera is a source of Lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenols and sulfur. All these have inhibitory action on fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Wound healing
Aloe Vera has polysaccharide compounds which can increase skin fibroblast activity and proliferation, and thus collagen production which may lead to wound healing and repair. Aloe gel not only increases collagen content of the wound but also changes collagen composition (more type III) and increased the degree of collagen cross linking. Due to these properties, aloe Vera gel can boost wound contraction and increased the breaking strength of resulting scar tissue of wound.
An increased production of hyaluronic acid and dermatan sulfate in the granulation tissue of a healing wound following oral or topical treatment with aloe vera has been reported.
Anti-ageing properties
Aloe Vera also has Glucomannan, a mannose-rich polysaccharide, and gibberellin, a growth hormone which can increase collagen production which gives strength and tightness to your skin preventing wrinkles.
Furthermore, the antioxidant vitamins A (beta-carotene), C and E protect your skin from free radical mediated injury or oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Bradykinase enzyme in aloe Vera helps to reduce excessive inflammation on skin. Aloe Vera can prevent excessive inflammation on skin tissue as It inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway and reduces prostaglandin E2 production from arachidonic acid.
Recently, the novel anti-inflammatory compound called C-glucosyl chromone has been isolated from aloe vera gel extracts.
Aloe vera hydrates your skin.
Aloe Vera improves hydration of your skin and gives moisturized supple look. Mucopolysaccharides in aloe Vera facilitates binding moisture into the skin.
Protects against U V radiation damage to skin
Aloe vera gel as a topical application has a protective effect against radiation damage to the skin. A study shows that following the administration of aloe vera gel, an antioxidant protein, metallothionein, is generated in the skin, which scavenges hydroxyl radicals. It also prevents suppression of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in the skin. It reduces the production and release of skin keratinocyte-derived immunosuppressive cytokines such as interleukin-10 (IL-10).
Skin diseases are improved by aloe Vera
Topical use of aloe is promoted for acne, lichen planus (a very itchy rash on the skin or in the mouth), oral submucous fibrosis, burning mouth syndrome, burns, and radiation-induced skin toxicity.
Is aloe Vera safe for consumption?
Generally, it is believed that prolonged use of laxative has been linked to increased risk of colorectal cancer. Laxative effect may cause electrolyte imbalances also. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ruling of 2002 manufacturers need to remove aloe from over-the-counter laxative products because of a lack of safety data. Anthraquinones present in latex are a potent laxative. It increases intestinal water content, stimulates mucus secretion and increases intestinal peristalsis. Aloe Vera preparations in over dose may produce abdominal cramps, diarrhea, red urine, hepatitis, dependency or worsening of constipation. So excessive intake of aloe vera is not recommended.
However, it’s very safe and effective on skin as an anti-ageing topically applied agent. Those who have allergy to raw aloe vera gel may use synthetic or company made aloe vera gels of various brands.
Contraindication to consume aloe vera:
1. The intake of aloe Vera is contraindicated in people having known allergy to plants in the Liliaceae family.
2. Oral aloe is not recommended during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
3.It is contraindicated in breastfeeding mothers, as it may sometime causes gastrointestinal upsets to the baby.
Clinical trials data for benefits of aloe Vera on skin diseases
Seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, genital herpes, skin burns, diabetes (type 2), HIV infection, cancer prevention, ulcerative colitis. Pressure ulcers, mucositis, radiation dermatitis, acne vulgaris, lichen planus, frostbite, aphthous stomatitis, and constipation have been benefited by aloe vera gel application as a topical agent.
Results of studies regarding the role of aloe Vera on wound healing are mixed with some studies reporting positive results while others showing no benefits.
Written by dr sanjana p
References for further reading
Anti-inflammatory action: Aloe vera inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway and reduces prostaglandin E2 production from arachidonic acid. Recently, the novel anti-inflammatory compound called C-glucosyl chromone was isolated from gel extracts. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9579551/
West DP, Zhu YF. Evaluation of aloe vera gel gloves in the treatment of dry skin associated with occupational exposure. Am J Infect Control. 2003;31:40–2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12548256/
Fossils are the windows to the evolutionary history of Earth and its organisms. They provide valuable information about the geological and evolutionary history of Earth.
Fossils are the are the remains of ancient organisms or the traces of activity of such organisms. They are preserved remains or traces of ancient life.
Paleontogy is the branch of science dealing with study of fossils. More precisely paleontologists explore the evolutionary pathways, past geological environment, climate, tectonic movements etc. through the study of fossils received from various geographical regions of the world.
Fossil studies have vital role in portraying the history and geology of various countries and continents. There are different types of fossils and they help reconstruct “the tree of life”. The remains of ancient life or fossils include bones, shells, footprints, burrows and impressions which help to decipher the evolutionary, geological, cultural history of the earth.
Geological History is unravelled through the study of fossils as they date rock layers or strata and correlate geological time across different regions.
Fossilized dung and footprints also throw light into the ancient history of different regions and the animals lived there. It throws light also into archaeological studies unravelling the civilizational history spanning over continents and time.
Fossils are indicators of the climate prevailed in the historic times. They also provide vital information about plate tectonics and evolutionary history of continents, mountains, ocean basins etc.
Types of Fossils
There are different types of fossils and each type of fossils have particular significance in paleontological, geological &archaeological studies. The chief fossil types include:
Body Fossils: These include preserved parts such as bones, shells, wood or imprints of organisms.
Trace Fossils: these types of fossils are evidence of activity particularly of animals such as tracks, burrows, nests, coprolites. Trace fossils provide evidences for the organism’s presence in a particular chronological period of history. The trace fossils include footprints, burrows, dungs etc.
Molecular Fossils: These are preserved organic molecules, providing hints about ancient biochemistry.
Fossilization- How do fossils form?
Fossilization is a complex process of fossil formation happening spontaneously overtime. It requires rapid burial in sediment (like mud or ash) to prevent decaying. Fossilization of hard parts (bones, shells) is the most common type.
Fossils undergo a variety of different fossilization processes, depending on the characteristics of the particular organism. There are various levels of fossil preservation, each containing its own clues pertaining to the organism.
Fossilization processes include:
Permineralization: Minerals fill pores, turning organic matter to rock.
Compression: Organic matter is squeezed into a
carbon film.
Impressions: the two-dimensional imprint most commonly found in silt or clay, without organic material present.
Compactions: preservation of organic material with slight volume reduction.
Molecular fossils: deals with chemical data, preserving organic material, but providing no information concerning the structure of the organism.
Freezing: ideal fossils that are rare, everything up to internal organs are preserved in cold storage.
Amber: biological specimen that is encased in the hardened resin of a tree, in which the entire body may be preserved.
Drying & Desiccation: fossils that have been thoroughly dried.
Wax & Asphalt: almost as good as freezing, but with the usage of natural paraffin.
Coprolites & Gastroliths: these categories deal with the indigestable remnants of meals.
Trace fossils: typically formed when an organism moves over the surface of soft sediment and leaves an impression of its movement behind.
Molds & Casts: An impression is left, then filled.
Conditions that facilitate fossilization
Fossilization is a complex process and certain conditions are crucial for fossilization. The most common types of fossils are those which are having hard parts such as bones& Shell and had a rapid burial after death of the organism.
Besides being tough and hard, the organism must come to rest in a place where it can be buried before it decays or disintegrates. If the organism is not buried deeply and quickly, aerobic bacteria will reduce it to rubble. Water, given enough time, can also dissolve it. For this reason, fossils of some organisms are rarer than others.
The skeletons that containing a high percentage of mineral matter are most readily preserved. The soft tissue that is not close to skeletal parts is less likely to be preserved.
Other conditions that lead to fossilization include resting an environment that was biologically inert, areas that are receiving a large, steady supply of sediment (deltas of major rivers), and parts of the earth below sea level compared to those above the sea level.
The ideal place to become a fossil is at the bottom of a quiet sea or lake where the prospective fossil is least likely to be damaged. Moreover, it can be covered rapidly with sediment.
Clay provides ideal conditions for fossilization as the sediment protects the tissues and helps to exclude predators and solvent water.
How do fossils unravel the past?
Origin of life -evolutionary history through fossil study
Fossils provides snapshots of the past which when gathered together yields the whole picture of evolutionary change over the past 3.5 billion years although there could be some missing links.
Life originated in the marine environment or sea. The earliest evidence of life on earth is of marine animals, during the Precambrian era. The oldest known Precambrian rocks, found in Africa and Australia [ more than three billion years old]and the fossils found among them are of the oldest known organisms on earth.
The fossils on ancient rocks are of Eobacterium and other water environment fossils. Bacteria e are the first recognizable organized form of life. However, it is a curious fact that scientists have found well defined remains of algae and bacteria from around two billion years ago.
Commonly fossils are found in sedimentary rock. These types of rocks have significance in the evolutionary history as well as in geological history. Sedimentary layers act as evidence of the changing climate or movement of the continents during the passage of time.
Fossils that are preserved in amber give amount of information about the anatomy of that organism. Insects that have been trapped and preserved perfectly in amber (fossilised tree resin). Here organism is usually preserved intact without any disintegration of organs, muscles, and coloring. Even bones may tell a great deal about the soft anatomy.
Some parts of a few fossils can also give an account of growth, injury, disease, form, function, activities, and instincts.
Fossils record the successive evolutionary diversification of living things, the successive colonization of habitats, and the development of increasingly complex organic communities.
Fossils can chronicle about the environment and the climatic conditions under which the organisms lived.
Fossils as geological time markers
In geological science fossils act as time markers. They throw light into the age and sequence of rock layers (strata) and the evolution of life, with specific fossils appearing and disappearing at certain periods, marking major boundaries like eras and periods.
Fossils help geo-scientists to correlate rock ages and understand Earth’s history.
Fossil study shows the time when species evolve and become extinct. Fossils of some plants and animals are confined to known, specific periods of geological time. Thus, fossils give us a useful insight into the history of life on Earth. The evolution of human beings and other life forms, the change in environment through geological time are unravelled by fossils.
They also give an account of tectonic plate movements happened in the past and evidence for collisions or continental drifts that separated continents. Fossil study of various geographical regions helps to find out the similarities in species and evolution of new species happening overtime, as a result of isolation of continents by tectonic activity.
Fossils provide important evidence for evolution and the adaptation of plants and animals to their environments.
Fossils can also be used to date rocks and throw lights into geological history. Different kinds of fossils occur in rocks of different ages and they are evidences of evolutionary as well as geological change overtime.
Fossils buttress the study of environmental degradation by providing a baseline of past, pristine environmental conditions and by offering a continuous record of how ecosystems responded to both natural and human-induced changes over time.
In a nut shell fossils are windows to the past which opens into the vast expanse of buried scientific facts which trigger explorations in different fields of science and technology to know the unknown or more precisely the mysteries of the Earth.
DASH diet is well- known for improving hypertension and heart health. However studies show that it offers several other health benefits for people having diabetes, metabolic syndrome, colon cancer , PCOS etc.
Over a couple of decades, lifestyle diseases have conquered the health of urban as well as rural populations alike, enhancing the mortality rate from heart attacks, stroke, various types of cancers etc. Globally around 19.8 million people died from cardiovascular diseases in the year 2022. Out of these 85% deaths were due to heart attacks and strokes.
The deteriorating heart health is a serious concern which needs timely intervention to prevent increasing mortality from heart attacks. Generally cardiovascular diseases arise from behavioral and environmental risk factors such as unhealthy habits of smoking, tobacco use, unhealthy diet with excessive fat, salt and sugar. Obesity, Physical inactivity, air pollution, alcohol intake are the other contributory risk factors. Both men and women are victims of obesity and sedentary, unhealthy lifestyles enhancing their risk for life style diseases particularly heart attacks.
Life style modifications to prevent heart attacks
Healthy heart can be achieved through consistent and steady healthy lifestyle practices and prevention of environmental risk factors.
It is crucial to identify the risk factors posing threat to the health of your heart through early screening tests. Early detection of the enhanced risk helps to prevent the incidence of heart attacks.
Lifestyle modifications are inevitable for achieving a healthy heart. Of late lifestyle medicine clinics are giving emphasis to life style changes for all for preventing heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.
It encompasses healthy habits, healthy diet and environment and mind body relaxation techniques, restorative sleep , physical activity, positive social connections. All these lifestyle modifications are targeting at reducing the risks leading to cardiovascular diseases.
lifestyle changes mustinclude :
Fostering behavioral changes
Healthy habits to prevent heart diseases
Quit smoking
Avoid alcohol intake
Reduce stress
Increase moderate physical activity
Mind body relaxation
Avoid exposure to polluted air & smoke from automobiles etc.
2.Adopting a healthy nutrition plan
Healthy diet for heart
There are several dietary patterns for healthy heart such as Mediterranean diet, DASH DIET etc. DASH diet is discussed here as it also helps to reduce the impact hypertension on the heart.
DASH diet – A comprehensive overview
DASH – Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.
Although in the beginning of 90s DASH diet was given emphasis to reduce hypertension [ high B.P] later its good effects were proved in the management of various other conditions also.
DASH diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, lean meat and low-fat dairy foods etc. Fruits and vegetables provide nutrients like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and fiber that are important for fighting high blood pressure. These nutrients also can improve insulin resistance and glucose levels
The DASH diet recommends
more whole-grain foods, fish, poultry,nuts. Lean meat is recommended while red meat is limited.
Healthy fats, such as olive and canola oil or avocados, nuts are included in DASH diet.
The diet limits sodium, sweets, sugary drinks, and red meats.
Foods that are high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and trans fats are restricted or limited.
How to change your daily diet to DASH diet?
You can not make a tectonic shift in your current lifestyle instantly. It needs steady and consistent efforts motivating yourself or by taking the service of a nutrition expert or life style health provider. The results do happen if you adhere to this plan of lifestyle modification and practice it consistently.
1. Include low glycaemic index fruits like berries, plums, grape ,oranges etc. to your meals or as a snacking item. Canned and dried fruits are easily available for use but with no added sugar or salt in them.
2. Reduce the consumption of butter, margarine, or fatty salad dressing and consume low-fat or fat-free items.
3. Consume low-fat or skimmed dairy products
4. Include more vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach etc. to your diet.
5. Restrict eating fried items or sweets. Eat unsalted nuts, raisins, low-fat and fat-free yogurt, frozen yogurt.
6. While purchasing packed foods, read food labels to choose products that are lower in sodium.
Healthy carbohydrates included under DASH:
Carbohydrates in the DASH diet are mainly composed of cellulose and starches. It is mainly present in plant fiber. Reducing carbohydrates in the diet or eating “low carb diet” is not as healthy as that may lead to decreased caloric intake than recommended or consumption of unhealthy fats as a substitute.
Consume whole grains: cracked wheat, millets, oats etc.
Green leafy vegetables & fruits recommended in DASH
Kale, broccoli, spinach, collards, mustards are included.
Fruits:
Low glycemic index fruits such as cherries, grapes , pears ,oranges ,apples ,plums ,berries are recommended
Protein sources recommended in DASH diet:
Legumes and beans are included chiefly in this diet. DASH recommends more servings of plant proteins like legumes, soy products, nuts, and seeds. Animal protein in the diet mainly includes lean meats, low-fat dairy, eggs, and fish.
Processed meat is not recommended as they have the potential to be carcinogenic [causing cancer] or may raise blood pressure.
Healthy fats in DASH diet:
Healthy fats prevent inflammation, provide essential fatty acids, and help general health. When consumed in moderation, these fats have been shown to increase HDL and lower small dense LDL particles.
Some of the sources of good fats also included in DASH include:
Olive oil, Avocados, Nuts, Hemp seeds, Flax seeds, Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Minerals- recommended sources in DASH diet:
DASH diet recommends intake of foods rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium as these prevent endothelial dysfunction and promote endothelial, smooth muscle relaxation.
Some of the foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, and spinach.
Calcium is found in good amounts in dairy products and green leafy vegetables.
Magnesium is present in a variety of whole grains, leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
Benefits of DASH diet in cardiovascular health
Helps to reduce high blood pressure
Reduce the risk for heart disease, heart failure, and stroke
Help prevent or control type 2 diabetes
Reduce bad cholesterol levels.
According to NIH [U.S.A] the recommended DASH diet is served as follows:
Grains 6–8 servings/day
Meats, poultry, and fish 6 or less servings/day
Vegetables 4–5 servings /day
Fruit 4–5 servings/day
Low-fat or fat-free dairy products 2–3 servings/day
Fats and oils 2–3/day
Sodium 2,300 milligrams (mg) or 1,500 mg of salt (sodium) per day
Nuts, seeds, dry beans, and peas 4–5 servings weekly
Sweets 5 or less servings weekly.
DASH diet – role in diabetes , metabolic syndrome,polycystic ovarian syndrome & colon cancers.
Extensive research studies have been conducted all over the world to unravel the good effects of DASH diet beyond its potential to make a positive impact in the management of high blood pressure [ hypertension].
Several studies have shown that the DASH diet helps lower blood glucose levels, triglycerides, LDL-C, and insulin resistance. All these are major risk factors if brought under control by a dietary modification the health is protected against diabetes , heart attacks, stroke , cancers , metabolic syndrome and much more. The research study gives great hope for the management of non-communicable diseases through lifestyle modification.
DASH diet helps to reduce the risk for heart attack and stroke in people suffering from metabolic syndrome. DASH diet is prescribed as an adjunct to pharmacological therapy in metabolic syndrome [high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar]. Metabolic syndrome is often associated with excess fat around waist or central obesity
DASH diet also reduces the risk of colon cancer
Studies have shown a reduction in the incidence of colorectal cancer.
According to a study DASH diet has been found helpful toreduce insulin resistance and central obesity in women having polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS].
Of late PCOS is posing great health complications in women of reproductive age group being an impediment to fertility as it alters hormonal balances causing anovulation. DASH diet can be recommended for women having PCOS to improve insulin resistance and re establish hormonal balance. It also helps in addressing truncal obesity in PCOS women.
One study corroborates this finding as it concludes that following the DASH diet for 8 weeks in overweight and obese women with PCOS resulted in the improvement of insulin resistance, serum hs-CRP levels, and abdominal fat accumulation [4].
Research studies show that the monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats of foods chosen in this dietary pattern can help to improve insulin, androgens, and cholesterol levels in women with PCOS.
Nuts are main ingredients of DASH diet. They are rich infiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
* Dash diet helps for lowering blood pressure, particularly in diabetic patients.
* The DASH diet has been recommended as the best dietary choice for obese people who want to lose weight, maintain a healthy weight and lower the blood pressure.
DASH diet not only improve your heart health but overall health . If you are on the verge of metabolic syndrome, hypertension, obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, DASH diet may help you. However, consulting a health care provider is recommended if you have complex health issues.
The term “Biodiversity” encompasses a wide variety of life on Earth, with a large diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems. Tectonic plate movements and its consequent climate and habitat change have detrimental impact on biodiversity and evolution of species.
Biodiversity is a hotly debated and researched topic from time to time by numerous scientists & environmentalists in relation to climate, ecosystems and demographic characteristics. Its significance has been enhanced unprecedently in this modern era as multiple factors influence and impact on biodiversity.
Biodiversity is integral part of sustenance life on earth as it is essential to sustain the constant flow of clean air, fresh water, and food. Biodiversity plays key role in regulating the climate, and maintaining healthy ecosystems that support human well-being.
Biodiversity is studied by scientists conducting expeditions to survey and monitor species, habitats, and their interactions. On these expeditions, they collect data on various parameters such as population sizes and trends, distribution and habitat use, and impacts of management or other human activities.
Since prehistoric times the earth and ecosystems have been subjected to transformations and extinctions. It is an unfortunate fact that currently the impacts on biodiversity are happening in an unprecedented rate.
There has been an enhanced threat to biodiversity in the recent decades including habitat loss and fragmentation, excessive use of unsustainable resources, pollution, global climate change, emergence of invasive species.
Biodiversity is influenced by a wide array of factors. The population is exploding all over the world and its impact on biodiversity is unimaginable. Overconsumption of resources and human intervention on biodiversity has adverse impacts on mankind.
However, plate tectonics have a massive impact on biodiversity creating as well as destroying species and accelerating the process of evolution.
Plate tectonics
Movement of tectonic plates on the crust of Earth’s surface [plate tectonics] has major biogeographical consequences. Evidences suggest that tectonic activity began over 4 billion years ago. Collisions or rifting movements of plates creating and destroying habitats of organisms continues spanning centuries. It is happening through continental drift &by forming physical barriers like mountains through plate collisions.
Modern understanding of planetary dynamics including plate tectonics unravel the habitat loss or creation stemming from geographical changes like this.
Tectonic plate movement range from 10 to 40 millimetres per year (0.4 to 1.6 in/year). Where the plates meet, their relative motion determines the type of plate boundary as convergent, divergent, or transform.
Ocean-to-continent subduction, where the dense oceanic lithosphere plunges beneath the less dense continent plate. At zones of ocean-to-continent subduction mountain ranges form.
2. Ocean-to-ocean subduction where older, cooler, denser oceanic crust slips beneath less dense oceanic crust. Deep marine trenches are typically associated with subduction zones.
3. At continental collision zones two masses of continental lithospheres are converging. As they are of similar density, neither is subducted.
The plate edges are compressed, folded, and uplifted forming mountain ranges,
4. At zones of ocean-to-ocean rifting, divergent boundaries form by seafloor spreading, allowing for the formation of new ocean basin. Two plates slide apart from each other. This rifting when happens on oceanic plates it leads to formation of new ocean basin.
5.Transform boundaries (conservative boundaries or strike-slip boundaries)
Here plates are neither created nor destroyed. Instead, two plates slide, or precisely they grind past each other, along transform faults. Strong earthquakes may happen along a fault.
Impact of plate tectonics on biodiversity
Tectonic movements and continental deformation consequent to that lead to complexity of habitat. They trigger a complex landscape response. For instance, a river network reorganization including river captures by tectonic forces leads to an unusually high diversity of habitat through isolation, creation or destruction of facets of the landscape.
Building of mountain barriers consequent to plate tectonics quite often lead to isolation and speciation, and connecting landmasses via land bridges that allow for species migration and exchange.
These movements of tectonic plates also drive global climate shifts, influencing the distribution and evolution of life.
Let us delve deeper into the tectonic impact on geomorphology and its impact on species and biodiversity.
Continental drift and habitat formation:
As continents separate, new continental margins are created during movement of tectonic plates, it creates potential habitats and spurring diversification.
When the tectonic plates collide, previously separated landmasses can merge again. This may lead to competition between new species and that occupied similar niches in isolation.
Land bridges formation & migration
Plate tectonics can cause sea levels to drop, forming land bridges that connect continents. This new land bridges facilitate migration of species between the continents. A famous example is the Bering land bridge between Siberia and Alaska, which allowed many species, including early humans, to migrate between continents.
Isolation and speciation
The formation of mountain ranges through plate collisions may function as a physical barrier leading to isolation or separating populations and thus preventing gene flow. Over time, isolated populations can evolve independently as new species through a process called allopatric speciation.
The separation of continents and the formation of ocean basins can act as another kind of barriers driving marine and terrestrial diversification.
Climate change and species composition
Plate tectonics influence global climate patterns drastically by changing ocean currents and creating mountain ranges that affect atmospheric circulation.
The global climate patterns in turn affects the types of habitats available for organisms. The fossil records elucidate how climate changes drive changes in species composition and distribution.
New ecosystems formation
Geological changes such as the creation of mid-ocean ridges, oceanic trenches, and volcanic island arcs due to tectonic movements eventually lead to the formation of new habitats and ecosystems.
The subsequent cooling and sinking of oceanic crust can displace seawater, causing global sea levels to rise.
Evolutionary patterns of populations from variance
The splitting of a continuous population by the formation of a physical barrier such as mountains, ocean basins etc. is called vicariance. This can lead to the evolutionary divergence of populations on either side of the barrier.
Plate tectonics function as Rift and collision pumps:
Plate tectonics can be described as a “rift pump” as it increases biodiversity through isolation. It functions as a “collision pump” that enhances competition between new & existing species when continents collide. In either way plate tectonics impacts on biodiversity.
Acceleration of evolution:
The separation and collision of continents compel species to adapt to new environments created.
This can lead to new evolutionary paths or extinctions.
The dynamic changes impacted by plate tectonics, including the creation and destruction of habitats, can accelerate the pace of biological evolution.
Fossil studies reveal that plate tectonics have been associated with profound biogeographical consequences, such as isolation and speciation. Eventually geologically isolated species may emerge as a new species in the new ecosystem. Similarly, another type of collision of tectonic plates may merge isolated continents forming ridges or land bridges. Now this may cause competition between existing and newly joined species and gradual extinction.
The impact of plate tectonics on biodiversity and climate is evident in the fossil record of animals with Gondwanan affinities in India and Madagascar.
The collision of continents can connect previously separated landmasses. The collision of India with Asia as per the fossil studies show that fossils of shared vertebrate groups found in both India and Madagascar, showing a link to the former supercontinent Gondwana.
A formation of the Isthmus of Panama allowed for the exchange of animals between North and South America.
conclusion
Plate tectonic is not the only cause that impacts biodiversity. Several other factors like global warming, human interventions and natural catastrophes such as volcanic eruptions and ocean currents play their own roles. However the tectonic movements have significant role in the evolutionary process of extinction as well as emergence of new species.
