A CULINARY AND MEDICINAL TREASURE

Ginger

     Ginger, with its distinct flavour and rich history, has long been cherished as a culinary and medicinal treasure.

Introduction:

     This humble root, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, holds a prominent place in traditional medicine and culinary practices across the globe. From its vibrant presence in Asian cuisine to its incorporation in various beverages and desserts, ginger adds depth, warmth, and an array of health benefits to countless dishes. In this article, we will explore the significance of ginger as an essential ingredient, uncovering its diverse uses, nutritional properties, and remarkable therapeutic potential.

A Flavorful Journey through History:

     Ginger’s captivating journey spans over 5,000 years, originating in Southeast Asia and eventually reaching every corner of the globe. Ancient civilizations such as the Chinese, Greeks, and Romans valued ginger for its exotic aroma and believed it possessed extraordinary healing properties. As a valuable trade commodity, ginger traveled along the Silk Road, captivating the palates of individuals worldwide. Its versatile nature enabled it to effortlessly integrate into a myriad of cuisines and cultural traditions.

Nutritional Value and Culinary Versatility:

     Ginger is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, ginger offers a plethora of health benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium, aiding in immune system support, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation. Furthermore, ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound responsible for its distinctive flavour and numerous therapeutic properties.

     In the culinary realm, ginger’s versatility shines through as it effortlessly enhances the flavours of both sweet and savoury dishes. Its pungent and slightly spicy taste lends itself well to soups, stir-fries, marinades, and baked goods. From the fiery zing of ginger in Asian stir-fries to the subtle warmth it brings to a gingerbread cookie, its culinary applications are virtually limitless.

Health Benefits and Medicinal Applications:

     Beyond its culinary applications, ginger boasts a wide array of health benefits, earning its status as a medicinal superstar. Scientific research has revealed its potential in alleviating digestive issues, reducing nausea and vomiting, and even combating inflammation and chronic diseases. Gingerol, the bioactive compound mentioned earlier, has shown promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making ginger a natural remedy for conditions such as arthritis and oxidative stress.

     Moreover, ginger has been hailed for its ability to ease nausea, particularly in pregnant women and individuals undergoing chemotherapy. Its soothing effects on the digestive system can relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

     In traditional medicine practices, ginger has been employed as a natural remedy for centuries. Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and various indigenous healing systems recognise ginger as a potent herb capable of treating ailments such as colds, coughs, migraines, and menstrual cramps. The rhizome’s warming properties and ability to stimulate blood circulation make it an invaluable ingredient in these traditional healing practices.

Ginger’s Role in Modern Science and Research:

     As ginger’s popularity continues to grow, modern scientific research has embraced its potential therapeutic applications. Numerous studies have explored ginger’s role in managing chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and even certain types of cancer. Preliminary findings suggest that ginger’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could play a pivotal role in preventing and managing these conditions. However, further research is still required to fully understand and unlock ginger’s medicinal potential.

Incorporating Ginger into Daily Life:

     Embracing ginger as a daily ingredient is a delightful and practical way to harness its benefits. Whether it’s a steaming cup of ginger tea, a zesty ginger-infused salad dressing, or a fragrant ginger-spiced curry, there are countless ways to incorporate ginger into one’s culinary repertoire. Exploring diverse recipes and experimenting with ginger’s flavour profile will undoubtedly lead to countless moments of culinary satisfaction and potential health improvements.

Conclusion:

     Ginger, with its centuries-old legacy, has solidified its place as an essential ingredient in global cuisine. Its unparalleled flavour, nutritional richness, and remarkable therapeutic potential make it an ingredient worth celebrating. As we delve into the captivating world of ginger, we unlock a treasure trove of benefits for our taste buds and overall well-being. From the past to the present, ginger’s significance remains unwavering, enchanting us with its flavour, and empowering us with its health-promoting properties. So, the next time you come across ginger, remember the profound impact this humble root has on our culinary experiences and our health.

A GOOD-HEARTED PRINCE

Prince Siddharth

     Siddharth and Devdutt were cousins. Siddharth’s father was Shuddhodhan, the king. He was the ruler of the state of Kapilvastu and was a polite and considerate man. Devdutt was his nephew. 

     One day, they were having fun together in the garden. Like many princes, Devdutt was pompous, conceited, and short tempered while Siddharth was courteous, kind, and gentle. 

     Devdutt pointed his bow and arrow at a swan and shot an arrow at it. The injured bird fell to the ground. In an effort to save the bird’s life, Siddharth hurriedly grabbed the bird and said, “Oh poor creature.” 

     Devdutt sprinted to the scene, claiming, “I hit it with my arrow. Please return it to me, it’s the reward for my shooting skills.” 

     An argument erupted, and both rushed to King Shuddhodhan. 

     “Come to the court tomorrow; the council of ministers will take a decision,” he said. 

     Meanwhile Siddharth gave medicines and treated the bird. The court proceedings began the following day, and Devdutt declared, “I aimed at the bird. In all fairness, you should give it to me because it’s my bird.” 

“The bird was hit, I took it under my wings and tried to save its life, so it belongs to me,” said Siddharth. 

     After hearing both sides, the council of ministers decided that it was Siddharth who could keep the bird because he had tried to save the bird’s life. 

     Saving one’s life and not murder is an honourable deed. The good-hearted prince later came to be known as Buddha. 

A TRADITIONAL WORSHIP OF TEACHERS

Guru Purnima

     Swami Vivekananda, Shivaji the great… –today the whole world is well- versed with these names. Their words, writings, and philanthropic works are today acknowledged and praised by the intellectuals and elites all around the world. Verily, such iconic personalities in every era have left an indelible impression on the world. However, these great ones who are adored all across the globe, in turn, offered multitudes of gratitude and expressed themselves as indebted to 'someone', who in reality carved, shaped, trained, guided, helped, and loved them unconditionally. This 'someone', who they deemed as their most adorable, most beloved, the dearest, was one and the only– their Guru, the Spiritual Master! What to say of the great personages, even the divine incarnations such as Rama and Krishna have eloquently sung the glory of their Guru, despite themselves being the Avatars! That's why their words, encapsulated in the form of scriptures, are replete with appreciation and gratefulness for the Guru! 

     Every year, the full moon day during the Ashadha month is celebrated as the Guru Purnima day. This day, which carries a great significance for the disciples of a Satguru, is dedicated for Guru Puja or worship of the Guru. This tradition was started by the disciples of the sage of yesteryears, Ved Vyasa, who wrote Mahabharata, was born to Satyavati and Sage Parashar on this day. This day is also celebrated as Vyasa Poornima. On this day, the disciples offer heartfelt reverences and pay respect to their holy Guru. The Satguru, the Spiritual Master is the power of the highest order of reverence in the entire universe! 

Guru Poornima is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists all over the world, on a full moon day in the month of Ashadha, according to the Hindu calendar, in honour our Gurus.

In the word ”Guru”, "Gu” means darkness and "Ru” means the eradication of darkness. Thus "Guru" means the one who eliminates the darkness of ignorance and illuminates our lives with knowledge.

On this day,

In Hinduism, Bhagwan Shiva started the transmission of Yoga and lectures to the Saptarishis.

In Buddhism, Bhagwan Gautam Buddha on this day gave His first Sermon in Sarnath after attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya.

In Jainism, Bhagwan Mahavir made his first disciple on this day and thus became a Guru.

ॐ श्री गुरवे नमः

Humble salutions to the Guru.

TIMELESS AND REWARDING ENDEAVOUR

 The Joy of Gardening

     Gardening is a timeless and rewarding endeavour that connects us to the awesome natural world and offers a host of benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.  

     Beyond the beauty of fantastic flowers and vegetables, the hobby of gardening provides us with a sense of purpose and joy. In this article, we will delve into the peaceful power of gardening and explore the many ways it brings joy into our lives.

Nurturing Life: As you are aware nobody can survive without plants. By doing gardening you become agent of sustaining life by nurturing seeds or saplings into thriving plants and trees. Watching the growth and blooming of plants under our care fills us with a deep sense of accomplishment and joy. The act of nurturing life fosters a profound connection to the natural world, reminding us of the beauty and resilience of nature.

Creating Beauty: Gardening provides us with a natural canvas to create living works of art. From colorful flower beds to carefully planned landscapes, gardens offer a sanctuary of beauty and tranquility. The process of designing and arranging plants, choosing vibrant colors and textures, and witnessing the creation of a harmonious space fills us with joy and a sense of aesthetic fulfillment. 

Therapeutic Benefits: Engaging in gardening activities can have a therapeutic effect on our wellbeing. The act of working with soil, tending to plants, and engaging in physical activity can reduce your stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation. Gardening offers a meditative space where you can escape the pressures of daily life, connecting with nature and finding solace in its magnificence.

Cultivating Patience and Resilience: Gardening teaches us the virtues of patience and resilience. This is because no plant grows overnight. It reminds us that growth takes time and that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of life. As you tend to your gardens, you learn to adapt to changing conditions, overcome obstacles, and appreciate the beauty of the journey. The process of gardening cultivates not only plants but also your personal growth. 

Connecting with Seasons: Gardening teaches you to embrace the cycles of nature and the changing seasons. You become attuned to the rhythm of life as you sow appropriate seeds in spring, nurture growth in summer, witness the vibrant colors of autumn, and prepare for rest in winter. This connection with the seasons provides sense of harmony and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 

Harvesting Rewards: One of the most joyful aspects of gardening is reaping the rewards of our labour. Whether it's plucking fresh vegetables from the garden, picking a bouquet of fragrant flowers, or enjoying the taste of homegrown herbs, the fruits of our gardening efforts bring a sense of satisfaction, pride, and delight. The experience of nurturing and harvesting our own food or creating beautiful arrangements is deeply fulfilling. 

Cultivating Community: Gardening has the power to bring people together and build a sense of community. Community gardens and shared gardening spaces foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a sense of belonging. Connecting with fellow gardeners, exchanging tips and stories, and celebrating the joys of gardening collectively enhance the overall experience and deepen our connection to others.

Conclusion: Gardening is not just a hobby; it is a transformative journey that nourishes our souls, connects us with nature, and brings immense joy into our lives. Through the act of nurturing life, creating beauty, finding solace, and embracing the cycles of nature, gardening offers us an opportunity to cultivate not only plants but also a sense of purpose, contentment, and connection. So, grab your gardening tools, step into the soil, and embark on a joy-filled journey of growth, both for your garden and for yourself. 

STORY OF A CARPENTER

 Build Your House Wisely

     An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his contractor about his plans to leave the house-building business to live a more leisurely life with his family. He would miss the paycheck each week, but he wanted to retire. The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favour. The carpenter said yes, but over time it was visible that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

     When the carpenter finished his work, his contractor came to inspect the house. Then he handed the front door key to the carpenter and said, “This is your house… my gift to you.” The carpenter was shocked! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently. 

     It is upto us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then, with a shock, we realise we have to live in the house we have built. If we could do it over, we would do it much differently. But, you cannot go back. You are the carpenter, and every day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall.  

     Someone once said, “Life is a do-it-yourself project.” Your attitude, and the choices you make today, help build the “house” you will live in tomorrow. Therefore, build wisely!

NATURAL SHRINES IN THE FOREST

Sacred groves

     There are unique forests in India known as sacred groves because there are small shrines or temples inside them honouring local deities. They are pockets of forests where people are forbidden to cut the trees or disturb the animals for fear of angering the resident gods. They can only collect honey, twigs, medicinal herbs and litter. Sacred groves are found in every state though they are known by different names. There are more than 20,000 sacred groves with the most—over 5000—found in Himachal Pradesh. Some are small, occupying a few hectares, while others, like the Hariyali grove in Uttarakhand and the Deodar grove near Shimla, are spread over hundreds of hectares. In Maharashtra, they are called devaraii, in Goa Devachirai in Karnataka, devarakaadu, in Rajasthan, oran, in Himachal, devbhumi, in Kerala, kaavu and in Tamil Nadu, kovil kaadu. The groves are extremely important because they are biodiversity hotspots. Not only do they contain hundreds of rare and valuable plants and trees, some of which are used in traditional medicines, but also different species of insects, birds and mammals. The trees help anchor the fertile top soil and the litter provides valuable humus that local farmers cart away to replenish their fields. Ponds and streams run through these sacred groves, helping to raise the water table. 

     Sacred groves have reduced in number and size over the years, because unlike olden times, people have lost respect for their sanctity. In some groves, the trees have been cut to increase the space for religious activities—the shrines now attract too many pilgrims. Others have been taken over for cultivation. Unless local people become more involved in protecting and restoring them, sacred groves, and with them a treasure trove of plant life, will soon be gone forever.

Facts: 

* Europe used to have sacred groves in prehistoric times. With the rise of Christianity, churches came up where the groves once stood. Now they are mostly found only in Central European countries such as Estonia and Lithuania. 

* According to Buddhist scriptures, Queen Mahamaya gave birth to Gautam Buddha in the sacred grove of Lumbini in southern Nepal.  

* Many Shinto shrines in Japan are built in the midst of ancient sacred groves. 

* The movie Avatar showcased a grove revered by the Na'vi people of Pandora, at the heart of which was the sacred Tree of Souls.

DO YOU KNOW

What Is Rainwater Harvesting?

     Water is an important natural resource and is the very basis of our life. We use water for drinking, irrigation, industry, transport and for the production of hydroelectricity. Water is a cyclic resource which can be used again and again after cleaning. The best way to conserve water is its judicious use. Rainwater harvesting is the accumulation and deposition of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to run off. Rainwater can be collected from rivers or roofs, and in many places the water collected is redirected to a deep pit (well, shaft, or borehole), a reservoir with percolation, or collected from dew or fog with nets or other tools. Its uses include water for gardens, livestock, irrigation, domestic use with proper treatment, and indoor heating for houses etc. The harvested water can also be used as drinking water, long term storage and for other purposes such as groundwater recharge. In areas where water supply is less or problematic, rain water harvesting is a good solution. It reduces the use of treated municipal water for uses such as landscaping, toilet flushing and laundry.