Maintenance of Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene in Ayurveda includes practices such as brushing of teeth (Danta Dhavana), tongue cleaning (Jihva Nirlekhana), and gum massage. These practices help in maintaining cleanliness of the oral cavity, preventing oral diseases, and supporting overall digestive health.

Brushing of Teeth (Danta Dhavana)

Danta Dhavana refers to cleaning of teeth and gums using a toothbrush, herbal powders, or twigs of medicinal plants. According to Ayurveda, brushing of teeth at least twice daily is considered the best practice:

• Once in the early morning after evacuation of natural urges

• Second at night after taking food

Traditionally used tooth sticks (Danta Kashtha) include:

• Neem (Azadirachta indica)

• Babul (Acacia arabica)

• Khadira (Acacia catechu)

• Pilu (Salvadora persica)

These plants possess antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

After brushing, the teeth and gums should be gently massaged using the index finger and thumb to improve local circulation and strengthen gums. This should be followed by tongue scraping using a tongue cleaner to remove accumulated coating and toxins.

Benefits of Danta Dhavana

• Maintains oral cleanliness and freshness

• Prevents dental caries and gum diseases

• Strengthens teeth and gums

• Supports proper digestion by improving oral health

Research Evidence

• Research studies indicate that regular tooth brushing prevents subgingival plaque formation, thereby reducing the risk of periodontal diseases.

Sipping of Water and Washing of Hands, Feet and Face

(Achamana and Pani, Pada & Mukha Prakshalana)

Achamana refers to the practice of taking water in small sips. It helps in cleansing the mouth and oral cavity, removing residual impurities, and maintaining adequate moisture of the oral tissues. Achamana is traditionally performed after waking up, before and after meals, and during daily activities to promote purity and alertness.

Pani, Pada and Mukha Prakshalana denote washing of the hands, feet, and face with water. This practice removes dirt, sweat, and dryness of the skin, provides a feeling of freshness and cleanliness, and helps maintain personal hygiene. According to Ayurveda, cleanliness (Shaucha) is essential for both physical health and mental clarity.

For this purpose, fresh, clean running water is advised. During winter season, lukewarm water may be used to prevent excessive dryness and discomfort.

Benefits

• Maintains oral hygiene and freshness of mouth

• Prevents dryness and accumulation of impurities

• Enhances personal cleanliness and comfort

• Promotes alertness and mental freshness

Research Evidence

• Studies show that proper hand hygiene is effective in preventing gastrointestinal infections and, to a lesser extent, respiratory infections.

• Appropriate foot-washing practices may help prevent Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) by reducing fungal contamination and maintaining skin integrity.

Toilet Practice (Shaucha Vidhi / Malotsarga)

After waking up in the morning, one should observe whether the food taken on the previous night has been properly digested. According to Ayurveda, it is essential to evacuate bowels after awakening. Timely evacuation of urine and stools helps in maintaining normal physiological functions and prevents accumulation of toxins (Ama).

Improper bowel evacuation or suppression of natural urges (Vegadharana) may lead to several disorders such as abdominal colic pain, cutting pain in the anal region, retention of feces and flatus, distension of abdomen, and disturbance of Apana Vata. Hence, attending nature’s call at the appropriate time is an important component of Dinacharya.

Benefits of Proper Shaucha Vidhi

• Maintains digestive and excretory health

• Prevents accumulation of toxins (Ama)

• Regulates Apana Vata

• Prevents anorectal and gastrointestinal disorders

Research Evidence

• Research studies suggest that highly infrequent bowel movements may increase the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women.

• Regular bowel habits are associated with better gut health and reduced risk of chronic gastrointestinal diseases.

Drinking Water in Early Morning (Ushah Paana)

Ushah Paana refers to the practice of drinking potable water early in the morning, preferably during Brahma Muhurta. According to Ayurveda, water stored overnight in a copper vessel is ideal for this purpose.

Ushah Paana facilitates the easy evacuation of feces and urine, thereby supporting proper functioning of the digestive and excretory systems. Regular practice helps in prevention of gastrointestinal tract disorders and promotes internal cleansing.

For Ushah Paana, either plain water or medicated water may be used. Medicated water is prepared by processing water with herbs such as Padmaka, Jeeraka (Cumin), Khadira, etc., depending on individual constitution and health status. Copper vessels are preferred as they impart Tamra Guna to the water, which helps in balancing Doshas and improving digestion.

Quantity

• Approximately 1–3 glasses (250–750 ml), according to digestive capacity and season

Benefits of Ushah Paana

• Promotes regular bowel movement

• Aids in detoxification of the body

• Prevents gastrointestinal disorders

• Improves digestion and metabolism

• Maintains hydration and electrolyte balance

Waking Up Early in the Morning (Brahma Muhurta)

Ayurveda strongly advocates waking up early in the morning during Brahma Muhurta, which is approximately 4:30–5:00 AM, i.e., about 45 minutes before sunrise. This practice is regarded as one of the healthiest habits and plays a significant role in the prevention of many diseases.

During Brahma Muhurta, the environment is quiet, calm, and pleasant, and this serenity exerts a positive influence on both body and mind. The dominance of Sattva Guna at this time enhances mental clarity, concentration, and receptivity. Hence, it is considered the ideal time for meditation, self-reflection, spiritual practices, and study, as learning during this period supports strong memory and better comprehension.

Benefits of Waking Up in Brahma Muhurta

• Maintains balance of Doshas, especially Vata

• Improves mental alertness and memory

• Enhances digestion and metabolism

• Promotes emotional stability and spiritual well-being

Research Evidence

• Research studies indicate that early-rising individuals, especially children, are more active, attentive, and disciplined compared to late risers.

• Early waking is associated with better circadian rhythm regulation, improved academic performance, and overall physical fitness.

Ideal Regimen Prescribed for an Individual (Ayurveda)

The ideal regimen prescribed for an individual in Ayurveda is classified into three categories:

1. Dinacharya – Regimen for the day

2. Ratricharya – Regimen for the night

3. Ritucharya – Regimen for different seasons

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Dinacharya

The literal meaning of the word ‘Dina’ includes both day and night (24 hours). However, in routine practice, the term Dina commonly refers to the first 12 hours of the day, beginning from sunrise to sunset. Most Ayurvedic texts describe guidelines for both daytime and nighttime activities under Dinacharya, while some texts describe night-time conduct separately as Ratricharya.

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Physical Activities to be Followed in Dinacharya

S. No.	Activity	Time
1	Waking up from bed (Brahma Muhurta)	4:30 AM – 5:00 AM
2	Ushapana (Drinking water early morning)	Early morning
3	Passing of urine and stools (Malotsarga)	Early morning
4	Tooth brushing (Danta Dhavana)	5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
5	Cleaning of tongue (Jihva Nirlekhana)	After brushing
6	Gargling / Oil pulling (Gandusha)	Morning
7	Application of collyrium (Anjana)	Morning (occasionally)
8	Nasya and Karnapurana (oil drops in nostrils and ears)	Morning
9	Physical exercise (Vyayama)	6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
10	Udwartana (dry powder massage)	6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
11	Abhyanga (oil massage)	Morning
12	Bathing (Snana)	7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
13	Taking food (Bhojana)	Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:00 AM \ Lunch: 1:00 – 1:30 PM \ Dinner: 7:30 – 8:00 PM (ideally before sunset)
14	Padabhyanga (foot massage)	Around 8:00 PM
15	Nidra (Sleep)	8:30 PM – 9:00 PM

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Importance of Dinacharya

Ayurvedic texts have elaborately described the advantages of following Dinacharya as well as the disadvantages of non-compliance. Regular practice helps in:

• Maintaining balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha

• Promoting physical strength and mental clarity

• Improving digestion and immunity

• Preventing lifestyle-related disorders

• Supporting longevity and overall well-being

A brief review of each activity, along with its benefits and consequences of improper practice, is described in subsequent sections.

Cleansing Creams

Process

1. Melt the oils and waxes (beeswax, coconut oil, and mineral/olive oil) in a bowl over a pan of boiling water (double boiler).

2. In a separate bowl, mix cucumber juice, glycerine, borax, and green coloring. Heat gently until the borax dissolves completely.

3. Once both mixtures are warm and molten, add water drop by drop to the oil mixture with continuous stirring.

4. Stop heating and mix the contents of both bowls thoroughly until the mixture thickens and cools.

5. Transfer the cream to a clean container and store under refrigeration.

6. Note: Make small batches at a time, as cucumber juice can spoil quickly at room temperature.

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Raw Material Requirements

• Beeswax: 3 tsp

• Coconut oil: 4 tsp

• Mineral oil or olive oil: 4 tsp

• Cucumber juice: 4 tbsp

• Glycerine: 1 tsp

• Borax: 1 pinch

• Green coloring: 1 drop

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This formulation gives a fresh, nourishing cleansing cream suitable for sensitive and normal skin.