My 13-year-old son has been suffering from flatulence for the past couple of months. It all started after he became cautious of what he eats as he wants to lose weight. What can I do to help him get rid of this condition?
Salma Alikhan, via email
Flatulence and burping are usually caused by swallowed air or the breakdown of food through digestion; especially plant fibres. Flatulence may also be related to eating fatty foods, stress or anxiety, smoking, irritable bowel syndrome (condition characterised by abdominal pain or cramping and changes in bowel function), or in conditions in which the intestines aren't able to digest and absorb certain components of food.
Some infections, such as giardiasis, are also associated with flatulence. The treatment for his flatulence should be more personalised if the symptoms include constipation, acidity and belching. If that is the case he should meet an Ayurveda doctor.
Certain spices like cumin, coriander and carom seeds (ajwain), turmeric and asafoetida have been reported to counteract the production of intestinal gas. He should avoid foods like beans, peas, lentils, cabbage, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, bananas, apples, peaches, lettuce, raisins, wholewheat bread, salads, cornflakes and carbonated drinks. If dairy products are a problem, he can try low-lactose or lactose-free varieties. He should eat slowly; it may help to take a short walk after eating. He should also drink plenty of water and clear soups. He may take a teaspoon of vaiswanara choornam* mixed with water or butter milk once daily before a meal.
I am a 17-year-old girl who has a very sensitive skin. I have acne on my face, neck and back. I have lots of acne scars on my face. My other problem is that whenever I wax my hands and do threading on my face, I develop rash all over my body. I have tried several prevention methods but to no avail. I also have a huge white birth mark. Is there any permanent ayurvedic remedy for it? Also, please suggest an ayurvedic treatment that'll help me get rid of excessive facial hair.
Aishwarya Rai, via email
Consult a gynaecologist to diagnose the cause of acne and facial hair growth. However, it's natural that during the teenage years, you make much more sebum than when you were a child. This is due to the hormonal changes at puberty, which stimulate the sebaceous glands. As a rule, the more sebum you make, the greasier your skin feels, and the worse acne is likely to be.
Rashes after hair removal could be due to folliculitis when the hair roots are injured in waxing. When you wax, make sure your hair is pulled only in the direction against hair growth. Apply nalpamaradi keram* (oil) regularly on your hands and wash off after ten minutes.
• Do not wash the acne-affected areas more than twice a day. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water. Very hot or cold water may worsen acne.
• Do not use cleansing granules, astringents, or exfoliating agents.
• Do not use ointments or oil-rich creams as these may clog pores
For the birth mark, I am not able to suggest any remedy through the column.
*Available at shops selling herbal products