Camellia Sinensis, commonly known as the tea plant, is an evergreen shrub native to East and Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Theaceae family and can grow up to 3 meters tall, although it is usually pruned to a height of 1-2 meters for commercial tea production.

The tea plant has dark green, glossy leaves with a leathery texture. The leaves are lance-shaped, pointed at the tip, and have serrated edges. The plant produces fragrant white flowers in the fall and early winter, which give way to small, woody capsules containing the seeds.

There are two main varieties of Camellia Sinensis: Camellia Sinensis sinensis and Camellia Sinensis assamica. Camellia Sinensis sinensis is native to China and has smaller leaves, while Camellia Sinensis assamica is native to India and has larger leaves.

The tea plant requires a subtropical to tropical climate and is typically grown in mountainous regions at high elevations. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.

To produce tea, the leaves are harvested and then processed using one of several methods, including withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying. The method used depends on the desired type of tea, which can range from green tea to black tea, oolong tea, and white tea.

Tea has been consumed for thousands of years, and is one of the most popular beverages in the world today. It is known for its antioxidant properties and is believed to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.

Camellia sinensis is a species of evergreen shrub plant responsible for producing the different types of teas that we know and love. The leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant are processed in various ways to produce different types of tea, including black, green, oolong, white tea, pu-eru and yellow tea.

Black Tea:

Black tea, also known as fully oxidized tea or red tea in China, is a type of tea that is widely consumed around the world. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are withered, rolled, and then oxidized before being dried and packaged for consumption.

Black tea is known for its strong and bold flavor, as well as its darker color when brewed. It is the most common type of tea consumed in the Western world and is often served with milk or sugar, although it can also be enjoyed plain or with a slice of lemon.

Black tea is produced in many countries around the world, including India, China, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Indonesia. Each country has its own unique varieties and flavor profiles, and black tea from different regions can vary in taste, aroma, and appearance.

In India, black tea is often referred to as “chai” and is a staple beverage consumed by millions of people every day. It is traditionally brewed with spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, as well as milk and sugar.

In China, black tea is known as “hongcha” and is produced mainly in the provinces of Fujian, Yunnan, and Sichuan. Chinese black teas tend to be less oxidized than those from other countries and have a more subtle flavor profile.

In Sri Lanka, black tea is known as “Ceylon tea” and is a major export crop for the country. Ceylon tea is known for its bold and robust flavor and is often enjoyed with milk and sugar.

In Kenya, black tea is a major industry and is grown in high-altitude regions for the best flavor. Kenyan black teas tend to have a strong and brisk flavor, and are often used in blends with other teas.

Overall, black tea is a popular and versatile beverage enjoyed by people all around the world, and its many varieties and flavors make it a staple of many cultures and cuisines.

Green Tea:

Green tea is a type of tea that is widely consumed around the world. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are withered, steamed or pan-fired, rolled, and then dried before being packaged for consumption. Unlike black tea, green tea is not oxidized during processing, which gives it a lighter color and more delicate flavor profile.

Green tea is known for its health benefits, as it is high in antioxidants and has been shown to improve brain function, boost metabolism, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Green tea is produced in many countries around the world, including China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and India. Each country has its own unique varieties and flavor profiles, and green tea from different regions can vary in taste, aroma, and appearance.

In China, green tea is known as “lu cha” and is produced in many regions, including Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Yunnan. Chinese green teas are known for their delicate flavors and aromas, with some varieties having a nutty, floral, or grassy flavor profile.

In Japan, green tea is known as “ryokucha” and is produced mainly in the regions of Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto. Japanese green teas are known for their bright green color and grassy, vegetal flavor profile, with some varieties having a sweet, umami flavor.

In Korea, green tea is known as “nokcha” and is produced mainly in the regions of Boseong and Jeju Island. Korean green teas are known for their nutty, vegetal flavor profile and are often brewed in a traditional Korean teapot called a “ttukbaegi”.

In India, green tea is produced mainly in the regions of Darjeeling and Assam. Indian green teas are known for their strong, bold flavor profile, with some varieties having a fruity or floral aroma.

Overall, green tea is a popular and healthy beverage enjoyed by people all around the world, and its many varieties and flavors make it a staple of many cultures and cuisines.

Oolong Tea:

Oolong tea, also known as wulong tea, is a type of tea that is partially oxidized, falling somewhere between green tea and black tea in terms of processing. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are withered, bruised, and then partially oxidized before being fired and rolled.

Oolong tea is known for its complex and nuanced flavor profile, which can range from floral and fruity to smoky and earthy. It is also known for its health benefits, as it is high in antioxidants and has been shown to improve digestion and boost metabolism.

Oolong tea is produced in many countries around the world, including China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Each country has its own unique varieties and flavor profiles, and oolong tea from different regions can vary in taste, aroma, and appearance.

In China, oolong tea is known as “qingcha” and is produced mainly in the provinces of Fujian and Guangdong. Chinese oolong teas tend to have a floral and fruity flavor profile, with some varieties having a smoky or earthy aroma.

In Taiwan, oolong tea is known as “wulong cha” and is produced mainly in the regions of Nantou, Taichung, and Taipei. Taiwanese oolong teas are known for their floral and creamy flavor profiles, with some varieties having a honey-like sweetness.

In Vietnam, oolong tea is known as “tra o long” and is produced mainly in the regions of Lam Dong and Phu Tho. Vietnamese oolong teas tend to have a mild and sweet flavor profile, with some varieties having a nutty or earthy aroma.

Overall, oolong tea is a unique and flavorful beverage enjoyed by tea enthusiasts all around the world, and its many varieties and flavors make it a staple of many cultures and cuisines.Top of Form

White Tea:

White tea is a delicate and light type of tea that is made from the young leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is the least processed of all tea types, with the leaves simply plucked and then air-dried in the sun or under carefully controlled conditions to prevent oxidation.

White tea is known for its subtle, sweet, and floral flavor profile, and it is often described as having a slightly creamy or nutty taste. It is also known for its health benefits, as it is high in antioxidants and has been shown to improve skin health and boost the immune system.

White tea is primarily produced in China, but it is also grown in other countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Each region produces its own unique varieties and flavor profiles, and white tea from different regions can vary in taste, aroma, and appearance.

In China, white tea is known as “bai cha” and is primarily produced in the Fujian province. Chinese white teas are known for their delicate and sweet flavor profile, with some varieties having a slightly earthy or nutty aroma.

In India, white tea is primarily produced in the Darjeeling and Assam regions. Indian white teas are known for their light and floral flavor profile, with some varieties having a slightly fruity or citrusy taste.

In Sri Lanka, white tea is known as “Ceylon silver tips” and is produced mainly in the central highlands. Sri Lankan white teas are known for their light and delicate flavor profile, with some varieties having a slightly honey-like sweetness.

Overall, white tea is a unique and flavorful beverage enjoyed by tea enthusiasts all around the world, and its delicate and nuanced flavor profile makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter tea experience.

Rooibos Tea:

Rooibos tea, also known as red tea or bush tea, is a type of herbal tea that is made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, which is native to South Africa. Unlike other teas, rooibos is caffeine-free and is known for its rich, earthy flavor profile and reddish-brown color.

Rooibos tea is produced primarily in South Africa, where it has been consumed for centuries by the indigenous people of the region. In recent years, however, rooibos tea has become increasingly popular around the world, thanks in part to its health benefits and unique flavor profile.

One of the key health benefits of rooibos tea is its high level of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against a range of illnesses and diseases. Rooibos tea is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and swelling in the body.

Rooibos tea is typically prepared by steeping the dried leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant in hot water for several minutes. It can be consumed hot or cold, and is often served with milk, honey, or lemon to enhance its flavor.

In addition to its traditional uses as a beverage, rooibos tea is also used in a variety of culinary applications, including as a flavoring for desserts, as a marinade for meats, and as a seasoning for soups and stews.

Overall, rooibos tea is a unique and flavorful beverage with a rich cultural history and a range of potential health benefits. Its popularity is likely to continue to grow as more people around the world discover its unique taste and versatility in cooking and baking.

Pu-erh Tea:

Pu-erh tea, also known as puer tea, is a type of fermented tea that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is primarily grown in the Yunnan province of China. Unlike other teas, pu-erh tea undergoes a unique fermentation process that gives it a distinct earthy flavor and dark color.

Pu-erh tea is typically classified into two types: raw and ripe. Raw pu-erh tea, also known as “sheng” or “green” pu-erh, is made from unfermented tea leaves that are pressed into cakes and aged for several years to allow for natural fermentation. Ripe pu-erh tea, also known as “shu” or “black” pu-erh, is made from tea leaves that undergo an accelerated fermentation process that gives them a similar flavor and appearance to aged raw pu-erh tea.

Pu-erh tea is known for its potential health benefits, which include aiding in digestion, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving cardiovascular health. It is also known for its unique and complex flavor profile, which can range from earthy and woody to sweet and fruity.

Pu-erh tea is primarily produced in the Yunnan province of China, but it is also grown in other regions such as Taiwan, Vietnam, and Laos. Each region produces its own unique varieties and flavor profiles, with some pu-erh teas being prized for their age, rarity, and high cost.

Pu-erh tea is typically prepared by steeping the tea leaves in hot water for several minutes, with some varieties requiring multiple infusions to fully unlock their flavor and aroma. It can be consumed hot or cold, and is often served with food to help aid in digestion.

Overall, pu-erh tea is a unique and flavorful beverage with a rich cultural history and a range of potential health benefits. Its distinct flavor profile and aging process make it a popular choice among tea enthusiasts around the world.

Yellow Tea:

Yellow tea is a rare and highly prized variety of tea that is primarily produced in China. It is a lightly oxidized tea that falls somewhere between green tea and white tea in terms of flavor and color.

Yellow tea gets its name from the yellowing of the leaves during the processing stage, which involves a unique steaming and drying process that sets it apart from other teas. The result is a tea with a delicate flavor and aroma, as well as a light, golden-yellow color.

Yellow tea is known for its potential health benefits, which include boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving overall health and wellness. It is also prized for its unique flavor profile, which is often described as floral and sweet with a slight nutty undertone.

Yellow tea is primarily produced in the Anhui, Sichuan, and Hunan provinces of China, with some varieties also being produced in Japan and Korea. The most famous varieties of yellow tea include Junshan Yinzhen, Meng Ding Huang Ya, and Huoshan Huangya.

Yellow tea is typically prepared by steeping the leaves in hot water for several minutes, with some varieties requiring a lower water temperature to fully unlock their flavor and aroma. It can be consumed hot or cold, and is often served without any additives to fully appreciate its delicate flavor profile.

Overall, yellow tea is a rare and highly sought-after variety of tea that offers a unique flavor profile and a range of potential health benefits. Its rarity and unique processing methods make it a prized possession among tea enthusiasts around the world.

Herbal Tea:

Herbal tea, also known as tisane, is a beverage made from steeping various herbs, fruits, flowers, and other plant materials in hot water. Unlike true teas which come from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas are typically caffeine-free and offer a wide range of flavors and potential health benefits.

The ingredients used to make herbal tea can vary widely depending on the region and the desired flavor profile. Some common ingredients include chamomile, peppermint, ginger, lemongrass, hibiscus, rosehips, and fruit peels. Each herb and plant offers its own unique flavor and potential health benefits, making herbal tea a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies and alternative medicine.

Herbal tea is known for its potential health benefits, which can range from calming the mind and aiding in sleep to reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. Many herbs used in herbal tea have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments.

Herbal tea is produced in many regions around the world, with some countries specializing in certain types of herbal tea. For example, chamomile tea is commonly produced in Egypt, while peppermint tea is popular in Morocco. The popularity of herbal tea has also led to the creation of many blends that combine various herbs and plants to create unique flavor profiles.

Herbal tea is typically prepared by steeping the ingredients in hot water for several minutes, with some varieties requiring longer steeping times to fully unlock their flavor and potential health benefits. It can be consumed hot or cold, and is often sweetened with honey or other natural sweeteners to enhance the flavor.

Overall, herbal tea is a popular and versatile beverage that offers a wide range of flavors and potential health benefits. Its natural ingredients and caffeine-free status make it a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies and a healthier lifestyle.

Yerba mate and guayusa infused herbal tea:

Yerba mate and guayusa infused herbal tea is a type of tea that combines the benefits and flavors of two South American plants – yerba mate and guayusa. Both plants are members of the holly family and are traditionally used in South America for their energizing and health-promoting properties.

Yerba mate is a plant that is native to South America, particularly Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It is known for its high caffeine content and is often consumed as a stimulating beverage. Guayusa, on the other hand, is a plant native to the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador and is also known for its stimulating effects.

The combination of yerba mate and guayusa in herbal tea results in a unique flavor profile that is both earthy and energizing. The tea is also known for its potential health benefits, which include increased energy and focus, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation.

To prepare yerba mate and guayusa infused herbal tea, the leaves of both plants are typically dried and then steeped in hot water for several minutes. Some varieties may also include other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor and potential health benefits.

Yerba mate and guayusa infused herbal tea is popular in South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador. It is also gaining popularity in other parts of the world due to its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits.

Overall, yerba mate and guayusa infused herbal tea is a stimulating and flavorful beverage that offers a range of potential health benefits. Its unique combination of South American plants makes it a popular choice among tea enthusiasts around the world.

Chai Tea:

Chai tea, also known as masala chai, is a spiced tea that originated in India but has now become popular worldwide. It is made by brewing tea leaves with a mixture of aromatic spices and milk, and is typically sweetened with sugar or honey. Here are some details about chai tea as found worldwide:

Ingredients: The traditional Indian recipe for chai tea calls for black tea leaves, milk, sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. However, there are many variations of chai tea that incorporate different ingredients such as green tea, honey, vanilla, and nutmeg.

Preparation: To prepare chai tea, the tea leaves and spices are simmered together in a pot of water until the mixture becomes fragrant and flavorful. Then, milk and sweetener are added to the pot and the mixture is heated until it reaches the desired temperature. Some variations of chai tea call for the ingredients to be steeped together in hot water instead of being simmered.

Serving: Chai tea is typically served hot, although it can also be enjoyed iced or blended into a latte. In India, chai tea is often served from roadside stalls and is considered a staple beverage. It is also commonly served in cafes and coffee shops worldwide.

Health benefits: Chai tea contains several health benefits due to the various spices used in its preparation. For example, ginger is known to aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is important to note that adding large amounts of sugar or cream to chai tea can negate these health benefits.

Overall, chai tea is a delicious and aromatic beverage that has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique flavor and health benefits.

A good health insurance policy should meet your individual needs and provide adequate coverage for your medical expenses. Here are some criteria to consider when choosing a health insurance policy:

1. Adequate coverage: The policy should provide adequate coverage for your medical expenses, including hospitalization, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications.

2. Affordability: The policy should be affordable, with premiums that fit within your budget.

3. Flexibility: Policy should be flexible, allowing you to choose the level of coverage that best meets your needs. It should also allow you to add or remove coverage as needed.

4. Choice of providers: The policy should give you the choice of healthcare providers, including doctors, hospitals, and specialists. This will allow you to choose the providers that best meet your needs and preferences.

5. Minimal exclusions: The policy should have minimal exclusions, meaning that it covers a broad range of medical conditions and treatments.

6. Minimal waiting periods: The policy should have minimal waiting periods, meaning that you can access medical treatment and services as soon as possible.

7. Additional benefits: Policy may offer additional benefits, such as coverage for dental, optical, or alternative therapies.

8. Good customer service: The health insurance provider should offer good customer service, with prompt and helpful responses to your inquiries and claims.

When choosing a health insurance policy, it’s important to consider your individual needs and priorities. You should compare policies from different providers to find the one that offers the best value for money and meets your specific needs.

It is also important to consider your healthcare needs, budget, and the network of healthcare providers available under the plan. You should also review the policy documents carefully before signing up for a policy, to understand the terms and conditions, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any additional benefits or perks that may be included.

Health Insurance Policies in India

In India, health insurance is a rapidly growing industry with many insurance companies offering a range of policies. Here are some of the best health insurance policies available in India:

1. Apollo Munich Health Insurance: Apollo Munich is a leading health insurance provider in India, offering a range of policies to individuals and families. Apollo Munich provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cashless hospitalization and lifelong renewal of policies.

2. Max Bupa Health Insurance: Max Bupa is a joint venture between Max India Limited and Bupa, a leading international healthcare provider. It offers a range of policies to individuals and families, with access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Max Bupa also offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for pre-existing conditions and international coverage.

3. HDFC ERGO Health Insurance: HDFC ERGO is a leading insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. HDFC ERGO provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as critical illness cover and maternity benefits.

4. ICICI Lombard Health Insurance: ICICI Lombard is a leading insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. ICICI Lombard provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for alternative treatments and wellness programs.

5. Religare Health Insurance: Religare is a leading health insurance provider in India, offering a range of policies to individuals and families. Religare provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for mental illnesses and pre-existing conditions.

6. Bajaj Allianz Health Insurance: Bajaj Allianz is a leading insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. Bajaj Allianz provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as daily hospital cash and cover for organ donor expenses.

7. Star Health Insurance: Star Health is a specialized health insurance provider in India, offering a range of policies to individuals and families. Star Health provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for mental illnesses and HIV/AIDS.

8. National Insurance: National Insurance is a government-owned insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. National Insurance provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for pre-existing conditions and maternity benefits.

9. United India Insurance: United India Insurance is a government-owned insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. United India Insurance provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for alternative treatments and critical illnesses.

10. SBI General Insurance: SBI General is a leading insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. SBI General provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for maternity expenses and ambulance charges.

11. New India Assurance: New India Assurance is a government-owned insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. New India Assurance provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for pre-existing conditions and outpatient treatments.

12. Oriental Insurance: Oriental Insurance is a government-owned insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. Oriental Insurance provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for critical illnesses and alternative treatments.

13. Future Generali Health Insurance: Future Generali is a leading insurance company in India, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and families. Future Generali provides access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for organ donor expenses and health check-ups.

When comparing health insurance policies in India, it’s important to look beyond the cost of premiums and consider the overall value of the policy. You should consider the level of cover provided, any exclusions or waiting periods, the excess payable, and any additional benefits or services offered. Be sure to research and compare policies from different insurance companies to find the best fit for your healthcare needs and budget. It’s also a good idea to check if the policy allows you to choose your own doctor or specialist, as this can be an important factor for some people.

Health Insurance policy

Selecting the best health insurance policy can be a daunting task, but it’s crucial to ensure that you get the coverage you need without breaking the bank. Here are some tips that can help you in selecting the best health insurance policy:

1. Determine your healthcare needs: The first step in selecting the best health insurance policy is to determine your healthcare needs. Consider factors like your age, medical history, and any pre-existing conditions that you may have. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a policy that provides the coverage you need.

2. Understand the different types of health insurance policies: There are different types of health insurance policies available, including HMOs, PPOs, and EPOs. Each has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to understand how they work and what they offer before making a decision.

3. Check the network of healthcare providers: Make sure that the health insurance policy you choose has a network of healthcare providers that includes the doctors and hospitals you prefer. This will ensure that you can continue seeing your current healthcare providers without incurring additional out-of-pocket costs.

4. Consider the cost: Health insurance policies come with different costs, including premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. Compare the costs of different policies and choose one that fits within your budget while still providing the coverage you need.

5. Read the fine print: Make sure to carefully read the policy document and understand the terms and conditions, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any additional benefits or perks that may be included.

6. Check the reputation of the insurance company: Look for an insurance company with a good reputation for customer service, claims handling, and financial stability.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the best health insurance policy for your needs.

Best Health Insurance Policies in USA

Choosing the best health insurance policy in the USA can be overwhelming due to the many options available. Here are some of the best health insurance policies available in the USA:

1. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) is a network of 36 independent and locally operated companies. It is one of the most trusted and recognized insurance brands in the US, providing health coverage to over 100 million Americans. BCBS offers a wide range of plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans.

2. UnitedHealthcare: UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurance companies in the US, covering over 45 million people. It offers a variety of plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans. UnitedHealthcare provides access to a vast network of healthcare providers and offers tools and resources to help members manage their health.

3. Cigna: Cigna is a global health insurance provider with a strong presence in the US. It offers a range of health insurance plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans. Cigna provides access to a large network of healthcare providers and offers tools and resources to help members manage their health.

4. Aetna: Aetna is a subsidiary of CVS Health and one of the largest health insurance providers in the US. It offers a variety of plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans. Aetna provides access to a large network of healthcare providers and offers tools and resources to help members manage their health.

5. Kaiser Permanente: Kaiser Permanente is a non-profit health insurance provider that operates in eight states and the District of Columbia. It offers a range of plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans. Kaiser Permanente provides access to a large network of healthcare providers and offers tools and resources to help members manage their health.

6. Humana: Humana is one of the largest health insurance providers in the US, offering a variety of health insurance plans, including individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and employer-sponsored plans such as HMOs, PPOs, and EPOs, with different levels of coverage and cost. Humana provides access to a large network of healthcare providers and offers tools and resources to help members manage their health.

7. AARP: AARP is a non-profit organization that offers health insurance plans to its members, who must be 50 years or older. AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to provide a variety of health insurance plans, including Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, as well as individual and family plans.

8. Molina Healthcare: Molina Healthcare is a Medicaid-focused health insurance provider that also offers Medicare and Marketplace plans. Molina provides access to a large network of healthcare providers and offers resources to help members manage their health, such as care management programs and telehealth services.

9. Oscar Health: Oscar Health is a technology-driven health insurance company that offers individual and family plans in select states. Oscar Health provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a range of tools and resources to help members manage their health, such as virtual primary care and 24/7 telemedicine services.

10. Ambetter: Ambetter is a health insurance brand owned by Centene Corporation, one of the largest Medicaid managed care organizations in the US. offers individual and family plans in select states and provides access to a network of healthcare providers. Ambetter also offers tools and resources to help members manage their health, such as a mobile app and telehealth services.

When choosing a health insurance policy, it’s important to consider your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. Be sure to compare plans and read the fine print to make an informed decision.

In the UK, health insurance is commonly referred to as private medical insurance (PMI). Here are some of the best health insurance policies available in the UK:

1. Bupa: Bupa is one of the largest health insurance providers in the UK, offering a range of policies to suit individual and family needs. Bupa provides access to a vast network of private hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cancer cover and mental health support.

2. AXA PPP healthcare: AXA PPP healthcare is a popular health insurance provider in the UK, offering a range of policies to suit different budgets and healthcare needs. AXA PPP healthcare provides access to a large network of private hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as specialist consultations and physiotherapy.

3. Aviva: Aviva is a leading insurance company in the UK, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals, families, and businesses. Aviva provides access to a network of private hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cancer cover and mental health support.

4. Vitality: Vitality is a health and life insurance provider that rewards its members for leading a healthy lifestyle. Vitality provides access to a network of private hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as discounted gym memberships and cashback for healthy food purchases.

5. WPA: WPA is a specialist health insurance provider that offers a range of policies to individuals and businesses. WPA provides access to a network of private hospitals and healthcare providers, and offers a variety of benefits, such as cover for pre-existing conditions and mental health support.

When choosing a health insurance policy in the UK, it’s important to consider your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. Be sure to compare policies and read the terms and conditions carefully to make an informed decision. It’s also worth considering whether you can access healthcare services through the NHS or if private healthcare is a better option for you.

In Canada, the publicly funded healthcare system is known as Medicare. However, private health insurance policies are also available to supplement the public system. Here are some of the best health insurance policies available in Canada:

1. Sun Life Financial: Sun Life is one of the largest health insurance providers in Canada, offering a range of policies to individuals and businesses. Sun Life provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a variety of benefits, such as prescription drug coverage and paramedical services.

2. Manulife: Manulife is a leading insurance company in Canada, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and businesses. Manulife provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a variety of benefits, such as vision care and dental coverage.

3. Blue Cross: Blue Cross is a non-profit health insurance provider that offers a range of policies to individuals and businesses. Blue Cross provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a variety of benefits, such as travel insurance and critical illness coverage.

4. Great-West Life: Great-West Life is a leading insurance company in Canada, offering a range of health insurance policies to individuals and businesses. Great-West Life provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a variety of benefits, such as disability coverage and mental health support.

5. Desjardins: Desjardins is a financial cooperative that offers a range of health insurance policies to individuals and businesses. Desjardins provides access to a network of healthcare providers and offers a variety of benefits, such as health coaching and virtual healthcare services.

When choosing a health insurance policy in Canada, it’s important to consider your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. Be sure to compare policies and read the terms and conditions carefully to make an informed decision. It’s also worth considering whether you can access healthcare services through Medicare or if private healthcare is a better option for you.

Best Health Insurance policies in Australia

In Australia, private health insurance is optional, but it can provide many benefits such as faster access to medical treatments and services, coverage for dental and optical services, and the ability to choose your doctor or specialist. There are many health insurance providers in Australia, each offering different policies and benefits.

Here are some of the top health insurance providers in Australia:

1. Medibank Private: Medibank Private is one of the largest health insurance providers in Australia. They offer a range of policies to suit different needs and budgets, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover.

2. Bupa: Bupa is another popular health insurance provider in Australia. They offer a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and chronic disease management.

3. HCF: HCF is a not-for-profit health insurance provider in Australia. They offer a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as mental health support and health assessments.

4. NIB: NIB is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as chronic disease management and health assessments.

5. AHM: AHM is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as online health assessments and mental health support.

6. Australian Unity: Australian Unity is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and chronic disease management.

7. GMHBA: GMHBA is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and mental health support.

8. Frank Health Insurance: Frank Health Insurance is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, extras cover, and combined cover. They offer affordable policies with flexible options, and they focus on making health insurance easy to understand and manage.

When choosing a health insurance policy in Australia, it’s important to consider your individual needs and budget. You should also compare policies from different providers to find the one that offers the best value for money. It’s also a good idea to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) carefully before signing up for a policy, to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy.

In New Zealand, public healthcare is available to all residents, but many people choose to take out private health insurance for additional benefits, such as faster access to specialist care and elective surgery.

Here are some of the top health insurance providers in New Zealand:

1. Southern Cross Health Society: Southern Cross Health Society is one of the largest health insurance providers in New Zealand. They offer a range of policies, including hospital cover, specialist cover, and comprehensive cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and chronic disease management.

2. NIB: NIB is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, specialist cover, and comprehensive cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as mental health support and health assessments.

3. AIA: AIA is a health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, specialist cover, and comprehensive cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and wellness programmes.

4. Accuro Health Insurance: Accuro Health Insurance is a not-for-profit health insurance provider that offers a range of policies, including hospital cover, specialist cover, and comprehensive cover. They also offer a range of health management services, such as health coaching and chronic disease management.

When choosing a health insurance policy in New Zealand, it’s important to consider your individual needs and budget. You should also compare policies from different providers to find the one that offers the best value for money. It’s also a good idea to read the policy documents carefully before signing up for a policy, to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy.

Health insurance

Health insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. Health insurance usually covers preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, laboratory tests, and other medical services. In some cases, it also covers some dental care, vision care, and mental health services.

Health insurance plans can vary greatly. Some plans provide coverage for all medical services, while others may only cover certain services or have a limited number of covered services. Some plans may provide coverage for preventive care, such as check-ups and vaccinations, while others may not. Health insurance plans also vary in terms of the amount of out-of-pocket costs they require you to pay.

Health insurance plans can be provided by employers or purchased by individuals. Employer-provided health insurance is usually offered as part of a benefits package and is usually paid for in part by the employer. Individual health insurance plans are typically purchased through private insurance companies, and premiums and out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on the plan.

Health insurance is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

Health insurance can also cover more specialized services, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and even home health care. Different plans may also offer different levels of coverage for prescription drugs. For example, some plans may offer a lower copayment for generic drugs while others may offer a higher copayment for brand-name drugs.

It is important to review your health insurance plan carefully to understand the types of coverage it provides, the cost-sharing arrangements, and the out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for. Knowing the details of your health insurance plan can help you to make informed decisions about your health care.

Health Insurance policies worldwide

Health insurance policies around the world vary greatly in terms of coverage, cost, and requirements. In some countries, such as the United States, health insurance is mandatory and available through government-run programs or private insurance plans. In other countries, such as the United Kingdom, health insurance is voluntary and provided through private companies.

Health Insurance in United States of America

In the United States, the Affordable Care Act requires most Americans to have health insurance or face a tax penalty. The law also requires insurers to provide a variety of benefits, including preventive care, mental health services, and prescription drug coverage.

Health insurance in the United States is a form of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. In the United States health insurance is required by law for people over the age of 65, and most states require that everyone have health insurance.

Health insurance in the United States is provided by both public and private insurers. Employer-provided health insurance is usually offered as part of a benefits package and is often paid for in part by the employer. Individual health insurance plans are typically purchased through private insurance companies, and premiums and out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on the plan.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides access to health insurance for those who do not have access to employer-provided health insurance. The ACA also requires insurers to provide a variety of benefits, including preventive care, mental health services, and prescription drug coverage.

Health insurance in the United States can cover more specialized services, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and even home health care. Different plans may also offer different levels of coverage for prescription drugs. For example, some plans may offer a lower copayment for generic drugs while others may offer a higher copayment for brand-name drugs.

It is important to review your health insurance plan carefully to understand the types of coverage it provides, the cost-sharing arrangements, and the out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for. Knowing the details of your health insurance plan can help you to make informed decisions about your health care.

Health insurance in the United States is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

Health Insurance in United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, health insurance is voluntary and provided through private companies. The National Health Service (NHS) is the public healthcare system and provides basic medical care to all citizens at no cost. Private health insurance plans are available to cover additional benefits such as prescription drugs, specialist care, and dental care.

Health insurance in the United Kingdom is a form of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. Health insurance in the United Kingdom is voluntary and provided through private companies.

The National Health Service (NHS) is the public healthcare system and provides basic medical care to all citizens at no cost. Private health insurance plans are available to cover additional benefits such as prescription drugs, specialist care, and dental care.

Private health insurance in the United Kingdom is typically provided by private insurance companies and can cover additional services such as dental care, vision care, and mental health services. Plans of private insurance may also offer coverage for out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments and deductibles.

Health insurance in the United Kingdom is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

In Canada, health insurance is provided through a publicly funded system, which is available to all citizens and permanent residents. The system covers basic medical care, including physician visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. Additional coverage can be purchased through private insurance plans.

In Australia, health insurance is provided through a public system and private insurance plans. The public system covers basic medical services, while private insurance plans can cover additional services such as dental care, vision care, and mental health services. Private insurance plans may also offer coverage for out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments and deductibles.

Health Insurance in Europe

In the European Union, health insurance is provided through a combination of public and private systems. Public health insurance is provided through national health systems, while private insurance plans are available to cover additional services.

Health insurance in Europe describe in details Health insurance in Europe is a form of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. Health insurance in Europe is generally provided through a combination of public and private systems.

Public health insurance is provided through national health systems, which vary by country. These systems typically provide basic coverage for preventive care, hospital stays, and some prescription drugs. Additional coverage can be purchased through private insurance plans.

Private health insurance in Europe is typically provided by private insurance companies and can cover additional services such as dental care, vision care, and mental health services. Private insurance plans may also offer coverage for out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments and deductibles.

In the European Union, health insurance is provided through a combination of public and private systems. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a free card that provides access to basic healthcare services in any of the 28 EU member countries, as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.

Health insurance in Europe is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available in your country and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family. Knowing the details of your health insurance plan can help you to make informed decisions about your health care.

Health insurance around the world is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available in your country and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

Health Insurance in South American countries

Health insurance in South American countries is a form of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. Health insurance in South American countries is typically provided through a combination of public and private systems.

Public health insurance is generally provided through national health systems, which vary by country. These systems typically provide basic coverage for preventive care, hospital stays, and some prescription drugs. Additional coverage can be purchased through private insurance plans.

Private health insurance in South American countries is typically provided by private insurance companies and can cover additional services such as dental care, vision care, and mental health services. Private insurance plans may also offer coverage for out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments and deductibles.

In some countries, such as Brazil, health insurance is mandatory and provided through government-run programs or private insurance companies. In other countries, such as Argentina, health insurance is voluntary and provided through private companies.

Health insurance in South American countries is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available in your country and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

Health Insurance in India

Health insurance in India is a form of insurance that covers the cost of medical care. It is designed to protect individuals and families from large medical bills. Health insurance in India is provided by both public and private insurers, and typically covers preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, laboratory tests, and other medical services.

Health insurance in India is generally provided by employers or purchased by individuals. Employer-provided health insurance is usually offered as part of a benefits package and is often paid for in part by the employer. Individual health insurance plans are typically purchased through private insurance companies, and premiums and out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on the plan.

In India, most health insurance policies have age limit of 65 years, but above this age limit also there are comprehensive plan for Senior citizens which cover a wide array of medical expenses. It is better to have health policies early as benefits in these policies decreases with advancing age. Premium rates of policies increases with age. With growing age waiting Period comes into play and may not get coverage for pre existing illness. The government has also introduced several health insurance schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, to make health insurance more accessible to all Indians.

Health insurance in India can cover more specialized services, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and even home health care. Different plans may also offer different levels of coverage for prescription drugs. For example, some plans may offer a lower copayment for generic drugs while others may offer a higher copayment for brand-name drugs.

Health insurance in India is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available and how they work in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family.

In conclusion, health insurance is an important part of staying healthy and protecting yourself and your family from medical bills. It is important to understand the different types of health insurance plans available in your area, how they work, and the cost-sharing arrangements they require in order to make an informed decision about the best plan for you and your family. Health insurance is required by law in many countries, and governments have introduced various schemes to make health insurance more accessible to all citizens.

Private health insurance plans are also available to cover additional benefits such as prescription drugs, specialist care, and dental care. It is important to review your health insurance plan carefully to understand the types of coverage it provides, the cost-sharing arrangements, and the out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for. Knowing the details of your health insurance plan can help you to make informed decisions about your health care.

Beginning of Yoga

Yoga is believed to be have originated in India 5000 years ago in the Indus Valley civilization (3300 – 1900 BC).  It is a way of living which unites our body, mind and spirit to connect spiritually, maintain healthy lifestyle and social relationships. Yoga and it’s health benefits was first mentioned of in Sanskrit in the ancient Rig Veda. Traditionally, yoga was taught using the Guru-Shishya form (teacher-student) with yoga gurus as the main authority of associated knowledge, skills and health benefits on Yoga. It was derived from the postures used in the medieval spiritual discipline of Hatha Yoga.

Yoga is a combined process of different physical postures in sequences, meditation, breathing exercise, word chanting and other techniques designed to improve one’s health and relaxation thus helping an individual to build self-realization.

Many of the terms used in Yoga practice are in Sanskrit, for example, Surya Namaskar (sun salutation) is a common yoga practice, where the words  Surya means Sun and Namaskar means salute or greetings, also understood as ‘worshipping the sun’.

According to yoga, it is actually the nervous system of the body that affects our health. The nervous system gets purified with daily yoga practice and thus keeps our body healthy and strong.

Maharishi Patanjali is known as “The Father of Yoga“, compiled 195 Yoga sutras, where the different theories and practice under ancient Yogic science serve as a framework for integrating Yoga into the daily routine and leading an ethical life.  The compilation of the Yoga Sutras is believed to done somewhere around 200 BC.

Tirumalai Krishnamacharya (18 November 1888 – 28 February 1989) was an Indian yoga teacher, ayurvedic healer and scholar. He is  one of the most important gurus of modern yoga, and is often called “the father of modern yoga” for his huge contribution on the development of postural yoga.

Modern yoga is believed to have begin with the young Monk Swami Vivekananda who have made a lasting impression in the Parliament of Religions held in Chicago in 1893 with his Vedanta based yoga philosophy. After him Paramahansa Yogananda (January 5, 1893 – March 7, 1952) introduced millions to his teachings of meditation and Kriya yoga in India and America. Now Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s “Art of Living” and Swami Ramdev of Patanjali Yoga Peeth Trust has managed to spread yoga in each and every house of India and abroad as well. Apart from the mentioned Yoga Guru’s there are many more Yoga Guru’s in India who have played a great role in spreading the benefits of Yoga across the world.

Yoga enthusiasts throughout the world often enjoy traveling to India simply because yoga is so important to this country’s culture. There are many places of interest for yoga enthusiasts to visit within the country to learn, practice and derive the benefits of Yoga. The world famous Art of Living Foundation in Bengaluru, Patanjali International Yoga Foundation Rishikesh, Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram Risikesh , Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram Chennai,  Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore are some of them among many others.

Benefits of Yoga and Diseases it can Cure

Yoga has been the subject of research in the past few decades for therapeutic purposes for modern epidemic diseases like mental stress, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.These studies have used only yoga asana, pranayama, and short periods of meditation for therapeutic purposes. It involves eight rungs or limbs of yoga, which include

• Yama: Codes of restraint, abstinences, self-regulations
• Niyama: Observances, practices, self-training
• Asana: Meditation posture
• Pranayama: Expansion of breath and life, regulation, control
• Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses, bringing inward
• Dharana: Concentration
• Dhyana: Meditation
• Samadhi: Deep absorption, meditation in its higher state, the state of perfected concentration

Yoga is a great way to get rid of diseases and health disorder. Doing yoga posture and therapy can be helpful to treat many common health diseases like

• Asthma.
• Arthritis.
• Diabetes.
• Hypertension.
• Depression.
• Liver Problems.
• Lower Back Pain.
• Thyroid
• Indigestion/Stomach Disorder
• Migraine
• Kidney
• Coronary heart disease
• Cancer
• Haemorrhoids (Piles)
• Heart diseases
• Eye disorder
• Hernia
• Infertility
• High Cholesterol
• Epilepsy

June 21, is International Yoga Day

On 27 th September 2014, Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi proposed to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to celebrate 21 st June as the International Day of Yoga. The proposal for an International Yoga Day was supported by 175 member nations, the highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA Resolution. This proposal was accepted by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on 11th December 2014, thus in India and world over it is being celebrating ever since. The theme for the International Yoga Day 2022 is ‘Yoga for Humanity‘

Now, yoga has gained global recognition with celebrities like Richard Gere and Lady Gaga swearing by its benefits.

About half a billion people practice Yoga worldwide, so it is safe to assume that most countries have a following nowadays. Yoga is not a new practice in most countries, while some countries have a small following of this art. Some countries where yoga  have large followings or are fast gaining popularity are India, United States, Thailand, Japan, Costa Rica, Bali (Indonesia), Hawaii, Germany, Nepal, Sweden, Morocco, The Bahamas, Mexico, Spain, Sri Lanka, Italy, Portugal, United kingdom, Canada, Australia, Singapore, New Zealand, Switzerland, Ireland, Austria, Norway, Denmark, South Africa, Chile, Hong Kong, Netherlands, United Arab Emirates and Egypt.

The primary goal of Yoga is self-realization or union of self- consciousness with the supreme consciousness. It is a goal suggested for mankind in contrast to pure economic and material development as a goal of modern civilization. We see that the latter part has given temporary happiness to the mankind leading to further desires and ultimately discontentment.  Too much competition and compulsion to achieve very high targets is leading to stressful lives. It has brought social inequities, unrest and ecological destruction.

Yoga has managed to expand its way right across the globe, while some communities worry that it is a religion or faith that should not be practiced, others realize its health benefits and regularly participate in their daily life.

Therefore, it can be concluded that practice of yoga is beneficial for all the dimensions of health, i.e. physical, mental, social, and spiritual and at the same time promotes harmony with nature and helps in conserving environment.

A generic drug is a medication created to be the same as an already marketed brand-name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. These similarities help to demonstrate bioequivalence, which means that a generic medicine works in the same way and provides the same clinical benefit as its brand-name version. This creation of Generic medicine has really benefited as a relief to mankind.

Generic medicines compared to brand-name medicines

Any generic medicine modeled after a brand-name medicine must perform the same in the body as the brand-name medicine. This standard applies to all generic medicines. A generic medicine is the same as a brand-name medicine in dosage, safety, effectiveness, strength, stability, and quality, as well as in the way it is taken and the way it should be used. Generic medicines use the same active ingredients as brand-name medicines and work the same way, so they have the same risks and benefits as the brand-name medicines.

It is important to note that there will always be a slight, but not medically important, level of natural variability just as there is for one batch of brand-name medicine compared with the next batch of brand-name product. This variability can and does occur during manufacturing, for both brand-name and generic medicines. When a medicine, generic or brand-name, is mass produced, very small variations in purity, size, strength, and other parameters are permitted.

Brand-name drugs look different from their generic versions

Generic medicines and brand-name medicines share the same active ingredient, but other characteristics, such as colors and flavorings, that do not affect the performance, safety, or effectiveness of the generic medicine, may be different.

These drugs may differ in:

• Shape
• Color
• Packaging
• Labeling (minor differences)

Generic drugs are allowed to have different inactive ingredients than brand-name drugs. For example, they may have a different:

• Flavoring
• Preservative

Generic drugs may also have a different expiration date than brand-name drugs. But even so, the generic must keep its effectiveness until its expiration date, just like a brand-name product.

Generic medicines cost less than brand-name medicines

Generic drugs also tend to cost less than their brand-name counterparts because generic drug applicants do not have to repeat animal and clinical (human) studies that were required of the brand-name medicines to demonstrate safety and effectiveness. This is why the application is called an “abbreviated new drug application.” This together with competition between the brand-name drug and multiple generic drugs, is a large part of the reason generic medicines cost much less.

The reduction in upfront research costs means that, although generic medicines have the same therapeutic effect as their branded counterparts, they are typically sold at substantial discounts, an estimated 80 to 85% less, compared with the price of the brand-name medicine.

Should we be taking Generic medication ?

Generics are not available for all medications. The best way to find out if a generic is available for a medication you are taking — and whether or not you should take it — is to ask your doctor and pharmacist.

Some health insurance providers require you to use a generic drug, if available. If you choose to purchase the brand-name product, you may end up paying on your own or have a  larger co-pay.

Generally, your pharmacist can substitute a generic drug for a brand-name drug. If a generic is available, but for some reason your doctor thinks you should still take the brand-name drug, he’ll write “Do Not Substitute” on the prescription.

If your pharmacist for some reason does not substitute a generic for a brand-name drug, you can ask your doctor to indicate on the prescription that substitutions are acceptable. That way, you can get the same drug for a lot less money.

It can get confusing. Don’t be afraid to ask your pharmacist if the medication you received is the generic form of the medicine you are used to taking.

Tell your doctor if you notice any change in your condition or have any unusual side effects when changing from a brand-name to a generic drug.

Generic Drugs use worldwide

The story of generics versus branded medicine being used to treat patients all over the world is not new. Many people become concerned because generic drugs are often substantially cheaper than the brand-name versions. They wonder if the quality and effectiveness have been compromised to make the less expensive products. The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) requires that generic drugs be as safe and effective as brand-name drugs.

Actually, generic drugs are only cheaper because the manufacturers have not had the expenses of developing and marketing a new drug. When a company brings a new drug onto the market, the firm has already spent substantial money on research, development, marketing and promotion of the drug. A patent is granted that gives the company that developed the drug an exclusive right to sell the drug as long as the patent is in effect.

As the patent nears expiration, manufacturers can apply to the FDA for permission to make and sell generic versions of the drug; and without the startup costs for development of the drug, other companies can afford to make and sell it more cheaply. When multiple companies begin producing and selling a drug, the competition among them can also drive the price down even further.

So there’s no truth in the myths that generic drugs are manufactured in poorer-quality facilities or are inferior in quality to brand-name drugs. The FDA applies the same standards for all drug manufacturing facilities, and many companies manufacture both brand-name and generic drugs. Another common misbelief is that generic drugs take longer to work. The FDA requires that generic drugs work as fast and as effectively as the original brand-name products.

Sometimes, generic versions of a drug have different colors, flavors, or combinations of inactive ingredients than the original medications. Trademark laws in the United States do not allow the generic drugs to look exactly like the brand-name preparation, but the active ingredients must be the same in both preparations, ensuring that both have the same medicinal effects.

Generic medicines in India

While this is done in America when it will progress in India the poor shall be the greatest beneficiary of change. Anything for the poor is always a welcome idea but not at the cost of human health and survival. To compare American conditions with ours could be a naive if not disastrous idea sometimes.

It is well known that American democracy is more than 260 years old. Unlike India, it attracts the best of the talents from the world, and the public is ruled by a set of governance with a minimal bureaucratic control. Contrary to that, we are a developing nation with a short history, and merit has very often than not been a casualty. While the perception of the decision is poor-centric, ultimately it is this class which bears the brunt of poor quality in a system dominated by rich and the powerful.

While there is no denial of the fact that good quality generics are always comparable to the branded medicine, the quality of the product depends on the sophisticated processing and manufacturing of a research molecule. It is a global experience of the clinicians that the original molecules are more efficacious and have higher biological availability to act on the root of the disease process vis-à-vis those manufactured under different conditions and marketed after procuring licenses through dubious means.

While in United States, there is a stringent quality control and a serious periodic monitoring of the quality, this is far from truth in India, where to get a drug license through political or bureaucratic connections by corrupt means is as easy as buying vegetables in the market. The drug control mechanisms in India have huge limitations both in terms of availability of manpower and technology. Rampant corruption in the system makes it worse.

The other major limitation in our country is the non-availability of qualified pharmacist and dispensers on the medical shops. The pharmacies or the drug shops all across India are largely manned by unemployed and untrained youth or family members. The pharmacist by and large outsources his license and takes his commission out of the contract. Left to them, it could have very serious implications where the technical ingredients of which the dispenser is ignorant could be wrongly dispensed under the huge risk of allergies and side effects. Further, many drug formulations with combinations shall be difficult for the unqualified shopkeeper to deliver.

With the mushrooming of pharmaceutical companies with incentives, the owner of the drug stores shall be least concerned with the quality of the drug. While it is true that some of the medical professionals have been hand-in-glove with the pharma companies and could have harmed patient interests, by and large a doctor would always like his patient to be cured and would prefer a quality medicine with good bioavailability for primary illness. He may be using certain adjuncts to benefit the company which could always be curtailed by a prescription auditing through the Medical Council. This would certainly be more preferred than leaving patients to the mercy of unqualified drug dispensers. Leaving it to the discretion of the pharmacist could be even more counterproductive. Chemists are unregulated and have no obligations, ethical or commercial for selling products.

Regarding the drug pricing, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority can always reduce the maximum retail price and leave very little room for manipulation by the pharmaceutical companies. Government could also consider introducing uniform code of marketing for bringing down the cost of medicines.

No medical professional would be against the low cost generic, provided it that is a quality drug but it is believed that not more than 1% of generic drugs sold in India undergo quality tests as practiced in USA or Europe. Ensuring availability of uniform quality of generic drugs would facilitate doctors to prescribe them with confidence.

If this is ignored it is likely to create a disastrous situation for the common men where his suffering would increase if he is dispensed “cheaper” poor quality generics. The brunt would fall on the have-nots since, the affluent and the powerful would always manage the quality drugs either generic or branded. This has happened in the larger government institutions where the branded medicines were replaced by generics. Remember while comparing generics with the branded medicines, it is just not the content of the ingredient, it is the purity and the concentration producing effective biological levels in the blood.

Another fallout of the proposed change would negatively incentivise pharma companies to invest in research and development. Not only will it create huge unemployment issues but will also greatly hamper creation of newer molecules.

It is necessary for the concerned authorities to first set their house in order and create a local framework free of corrupt practices to provide quality in generic drug testing and also create stringent process of issuing licenses. Once this is available, the Generics would obviously be as good as the so called branded. Thus it would be a good situation for everyone.

Have you tried Netmeds? Sign up with this coupon code “DEBO2573” and get Flat 20% off and 20% NMS supercash on your medicine order worth Rs.500 or more. 

Papaya is now grown in several countries including India, Malaysia and Philippines. It is no wonder the papaya was reputably called the “fruit of the angels” by Christopher Columbus. Papayas offer not only the luscious taste and sunlit color of the tropics, but are rich sources of antioxidant nutrients such as carotenes, vitamin C and flavonoids; the B vitamins, folate and pantothenic acid; and the minerals, potassium, copper, and magnesium; and fiber. It is one of the popular fruits as it is rich in medicinal value and nutritive properties. It contains vitamins and mineral required for normal body functioning. This orange colored fruit is delicious and can be eaten as it is or in the form of juice, milkshake or smoothie. Raw papaya is used in India as a vegetable. it is not just flavorsome but also has many health benefits. Here are some health benefits of papaya.

• Protection against Heart Disease

Papayas are an excellent source of the powerful antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin A. These nutrients help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. When cholesterol becomes oxidized is it able to stick to and build up in blood vessel walls, forming dangerous plaques that can eventually cause heart attacks or strokes. Papayas are also a good source of fiber, which has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels.

• Improves digestion

The fruit, as well as the other parts of the papaya tree, contain papain, an enzyme, which plays a vital role in the digestion of proteins in the body. This enzyme is especially concentrated in the fruit when it is unripe. Papain is extracted to make digestive enzyme dietary supplements and is also used as an ingredient in some chewing gums. Papaya is one of the best home remedies to treat irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.

• Has antioxidant properties

Papaya contains carotenoid, an antioxidant that neutralizes the free radicals. Free radicals are molecule produced during the metabolism but too many of them can result in disease. Papaya is one of the best sources of carotenoid. The antioxidants present in dried papaya help to strengthen immunity and eliminate free radicals that are hazardous to your health. This fruit contains more amount of beta-carotene than in carrots.

• Has anti-cancer properties

Research shows that papaya contains lycopene, which can lower the risk of cancer. It is believed that papaya helps in fighting cancer as it has the ability to neutralize free radicals. Papaya’s fiber is able to bind to cancer-causing toxins in the colon and keep them away from the healthy colon cells. In addition, papaya’s folate, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and vitamin E have each been associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer. Increasing your intake of these nutrients by enjoying papaya is an especially good idea for individuals at risk of colon cancer. The fruit is also beneficial for those who are undergoing a treatment for cancer.

• Controls Diabetes

Research have shown that the consumption of raw papaya could help maintain blood sugar level and cholesterol because of the high fiber content, thereby keeping a check on diabetes. In some parts of India, especially the North East, papaya flowers are locally used as a preventive measure against diabetes.

• Treatment of Dengue

Papaya leaves are commonly used in the treatment of dengue to help boost up the count of platelets. Dengue is an infection which affects the blood platelets massively. A simple remedy to get back the platelets count is to give the patient a glass of papaya leaf juice. It is prepared by grinding the leaves with a small amount of water to extract the juice. However, dengue can prove to be fatal once it develops into Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever which shuts down the circulatory system.

• Treats constipation

Papaya helps indigestion and improves in the bowel movement, which helps in passing stool easily. The fruit contains vitamin C, folate and vitamin E, which creates and tonic effect in the tummy and reduces motion sickness.

• Normalizes irregular periods

Drinking papaya juice can help normalize the irregular period. You can also drink the juice of raw papaya for irregular menstrual cycle. Papaya produces heat in the body and stimulates the hormone estrogen, which induces periods.

• Relieves toothaches

Papaya is among the best home remedies for tooth aches. Make a paste of papaya roots and massage onto the gums and teeth ad get relief from toothache. You can also use the inner bark for this. Papaya helps in removing the bacteria from the tooth and aids in the healing process.

• Fights infection

Papaya fights many fungal infection and kills intestinal worms, which causes many infections and complications.

• Fights inflammation

Papaya contains several unique protein-digesting including enzymes papain and chymopapain. These enzymes have been shown to help lower inflammation and to improve healing from burns. In addition, the antioxidant nutrients found in papaya, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, are also very good at reducing inflammation. Many diseases are caused due to chronic inflammation and eating papaya will fight this inflammation.

• Reduces acne

Papaya is very effective in treating many skin disorders. It can be used to treat acne. All you have to do is apply the fleshy part of the papaya skin on the affected area of your body. Eating the fruit will also make the skin clear. You can also obtain latex from papaya and apply it on the burnt area to reduce the marks.

• Support Immune

Vitamin C and vitamin A, which is made in the body from the beta-carotene in papaya, are both needed for the proper function of a healthy immune system. Papaya may therefore be a healthy fruit choice for preventing such illnesses as recurrent ear infections, colds and flu.

• Prevents ageing

Eating a papaya daily will prolong the process and may make you look younger than you are. Papaya is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidants like beta-carotene which helps prevent your skin from free radical damage keeping wrinkles and other signs of ageing at bay.

• Promotes hair growth

Papayas are very effective for maintaining healthy hair. Vitamin A in them is utilised in production of sebum, a compound that is crucial for keeping the hair smooth, shiny and moisturised. External application of papaya extract to the scalp can help you get rid of dandruff. The nutrients present in them help prevent hair loss. They boost hair growth  and prevent hair thinning

• Helps in reducing weight

One medium sized papaya contains just 120 calories. So, if you’re planning to lose weight, don’t forget to add this light fruit to your diet. Besides, it also packed with a considerable amount of dietary fibre that aids weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness and controlling hunger.

• Keeps skin healthy and youthful

Papaya makes your skin youthful and healthy. The antioxidants present in the fruit is responsible for neutralize the excessive free radicals, which cause skin damage, sagging and wrinkles. Rich in lycopene and vitamin C, papaya also helps in reducing the sign of aging.

Potatoes are one of the most common and important food sources on the planet, and they contain a wealth of health benefits that make them all the more essential as a staple dietary item for much of the world’s population. Being very nutritious with lots of minerals, fiber, vitamins, calciam & iron potato benefits every humans.

Many children around the world often refuse to eat their vegetables, yet they share something else in common. They almost all like potatoes. This is the strange and magical quality of potatoes; you will rarely find anyone who dislikes them or refuses to eat them. They are in almost every major continental diet in some form, and they can be prepared in dozens of ways, including baked, fried, sliced, mashed, and many more.

Potatoes originated in the Andean mountain region of South America. Researchers estimate that potatoes have been cultivated by the Indians living in these areas for between 4,000 and 7,000 years. Today, this vegetable is one of the most popular throughout the world and the main producers of potatoes include the Russian Federation, Poland, India, China and the United States.

Potatoes should not be stored around onions because both vegetables emit natural gases that cause the other to decay. Potatoes should not be stored in the refrigerator, as their starch content will turn to sugar giving them an undesirable taste.

Nutritional value:

Potatoes are a very good source of vitamin B6 and a good source of potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, dietary fiber and pantothenic acid.

Minerals: If potatoes are consumed regularly, we can ensure a good supply of water and ions in your body. Potatoes are rich in potassium, magnesium,  phosphorus zinc and are good for the skin. So, eating the potato with its skin is always beneficial. They also contain calcium and iron.

Vitamins: Potatoes contain large amounts of Vitamin C present in them. In addition to this, they also contains Vitamin A, B and P. High concentration of vitamin B6 in potato earns high marks as a health-promoting food. Vitamin B6 plays numerous roles in our nervous system and is a key player in athletic performance and endurance.

Water: In Potato water accounts for about 70-80 percent of their weight. We have a general misconception that by eating potatoes one will become fat. If our potato dish contains large quantities of greasy butter, sour cream, melted cheese or bacon bits then it can be a potential contributor to a heart attack. If we can’t keep away from those high-fat and high-cholesterol greasy French fries, or potato chips then one is bound to become overweight.

Starch: Potatoes contain about 17% starch and they are one of the best natural sources of starch. However, one should avoid eating sprouted potatoes as sprouting leads to the conversion of starch into sugar.

Some ways that will help us reduce the loss of potato nutrients:

Peeling the potatoes before cooking should be avoided. The protein and mineral content beneath the skin is very high so if we eat the skin along with the inside part, we get all these nutrients, or else we will primarily end up eating is just carbohydrates.

When we boil potatoes, first we should heat the water to its boiling point and then add them. This will reduce the cooking time and help us maintain the Vitamin C content.

Frying of potatoes should be minimized, as 75% of Vitamin C is lost during frying. We can use other cooking methods such as baking and steaming to reduce loss.

Foremost Health Benefits:

Improves digestion-

Since potatoes predominantly contain carbohydrates they are easy to digest and facilitate digestion. The fiber content in potato benefits in prevention of constipation. The vegetable improves bowel movement and keeps the digestive tract healthy. Fiber is also connected with scraping cholesterol out of the arteries and blood vessels, thereby increasing heart health.

Reduces blood pressure-

Potatoes can be used to relieve high blood pressure due to tension. They should be avoided if the high blood pressure is a result of diabetes. The fiber present in it is helpful in lowering cholesterol and improves functioning of insulin in the body, which aids in the lowering of blood pressure. Baked potatoes are rich in potassium and magnesium, which are important for healthy heart.

Reduces inflammation-

Potatoes benefits us in effectively reducing  inflammation both internal and external. It is soft, easily digestible & contains a lot of Vitamin B6, potassium and vitamin C which can relieve inflammation of the digestive system and the intestine. Vitamin-C is also a very good antioxidant that repairs tissue wear and tear. Hence, people who suffer from arthritis and gout can use potatoes for their anti-inflammatory impact, but should eat baked potatoes instead of deep fried ones.

Protects Skin-

Potatoes rich in Vitamin-C and B-complex also contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc are good for the skin. Vitamin C as an essential nutrient that works in our bodies as an antioxidant to help prevent damage caused by the sun, pollution, and smoke. Crushed raw potatoes pulp, mixed with honey, can work well in skin and face packs. This even helps to cure pimples and spots on the skin. Potato pulp, applied externally on burns, provides quick relief and faster healing. Smashed potatoes, and even potato washed water is very good for softening and cleaning skin, especially around the elbows, and the back of the hands.

Relieves Rheumatism-

One of the home remedies for rheumatism is Potato. Vitamins like the calcium and magnesium help to provide relief from rheumatism. Water obtained from boiling potatoes can relieve the pain and inflammation of rheumatism. However, due to high starch and carbohydrate content, it tends to increase body weight which may have adverse effects on rheumatic people. So external application is better than consuming the potato itself.

Weight gain-

Since Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates and contain very little protein so it is an ideal diet for those excessively lean or thin people who desperately want to put on weight. Vitamin-C and B-complex, present in potatoes also help in proper absorption of carbohydrates. That is why potatoes make up a large part of the diet of sumo wrestlers, as well as many other athletes who need large energy reserves to burn off in order to compete.Brain Function–

Brain to function efficiently depends largely on the glucose level, oxygen supply, vitamin-B complex and certain hormones, amino acids and fatty acids like omega-3. Potatoes cater to most of these needs. They are rich in carbohydrates, and thereby maintain good levels of glucose in the blood. This prevents the brain from letting fatigue creep in and it keeps your cognitive activity and performance high.

Now, the brain needs oxygen, which is carried to the brain by the hemoglobin in the blood; its main constituent is iron which is present in potatoes. Thus they help deliver oxygen to the brain as well. There are a wide variety of vitamins and minerals in potatoes that positively affect the function of the brain, including phosphorus, zinc, and the B complex vitamins.

Prevents cancer-

Fiber intake from fruits and vegetables like potatoes are associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer. Research has shown that potatoes contain a compound called quercetin, which has been proven to have anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties. High levels of vitamin A and C both have antioxidant qualities that can protect our body from the devastating effects of cancer.

Building Bones-

Iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, and zinc in potatoes all contribute to the building and maintenance of bone structure and strength. Iron and zinc play crucial roles in the production and maturation of collagen. Though phosphorus and calcium are both important in bone structure, the careful balance of the two minerals is necessary for proper bone mineralization consumption of too much phosphorus with too little calcium can result in bone loss.

Prevents Scurvy-

High level vitamin-C present in potatoes can help prevent this disease, caused by a deficiency of vitamin-C. It is characterized by cracked lip corners, spongy and bleeding gums, and frequent viral infections. In certain nations of the world scurvy still exist, this can be check by the abundant presence of potatoes to solve this problem.

Cautions:

Some care also needs to be taken while eating potatoes. Green potatoes are often poisonous, and so are potato leaves and fruits, as they contain alkaloids like solanine, chaconine and arsenic. An overdose of those chemicals could easily prove fatal. People who are obese, trying to lose weight or diabetic should avoid eating potatoes. If eaten, potatoes are healthier when baked, rather than raw or fried.

The early morning hours is our ‘’golden hours’’. A lot can be done before we start the day. Oil massaging, drinking lemon water, dry brushing, meditation / praying and  a quick morning workout are all examples of how we can start our day healthy and set the tone for the rest of the day. But the Japanese recommend us to add one more very healthy habit, the Japanese water therapy. For decades the Japanese have been practicing the habit of drinking water in the morning on an empty stomach.

Drinking water is of course generally good for our health. Water is a great source of vitality and is a necessary element for every cell and function in our body. There is no life without water. Many scientific studies and research is going on for years on the effects of drinking water on human lives.

Now what do you understand by Japanese water therapy?

Japanese traditional medical system recommends drinking water just after awakening because of its natural health benefits.

For decades, it is a well-known habit in Japan to drink water immediately after waking up every morning on an empty stomach although no studies could be found on it.

For minor illnesses as well as serious diseases the water treatment has been found successful by a Japanese medical system as a natural remedy in cases of:

• body ache
• headache
• arthritis
• fast heart beat
• heart problems
• epilepsy
• obesity
• meningitis
• diabetes
• menstrual disorders
• urine and diseases
• vomiting
• gastritis
• diarrhea
• constipation
• piles
• ear, nose, and throat diseases
• all eye diseases
• bronchitis asthma

Let us understand the different steps in Japanese water therapy

What precautions to take before we start practicing the Japanese water therapy? If you suffering or have any kidney problem or other severe health issues, then take your doctor’s advice before starting the Japanese Water Therapy. Now we come to the steps we need to follow to carry out this therapy.

1. After we wake up we should drink 4 x 160ml (22 ounces) glasses of water not cold before we do anything else, including brushing our teeth.
2. After we finish our water, we can brush our teeth, but eating or drinking for next 45 minutes is not allowed.
3. After 45 minutes have passed we may eat and drink as normal.
4. After every meal or snack, we should not eat or drink anything for next 2 hours.
5. If anyone is sick, elderly, or not used to this habit, one can start this process gradually that eventually after some days will consume 22 ounces water per day.

It is suggested to continue this therapy and to make this procedure a routine in our life. The Chinese and Japanese usually tend to drink hot water with their meals, not cold water. Maybe now it’s time that we should also adopt their drinking habits? In Ayurveda also there are also many suggestions on the temperature of drinking water. They believe that drinking liquids too cold or too hot can cause many diseases.

Now why should one believe this Japanese practice?

There are some remarkable facts which convince us to adopt some of the Japanese healthy habits. Japanese have the most longevity life as nation and there are quite a number of Japanese men & women older than 100 years.

Japanese water therapy, similar to the water therapy in Indian ayurveda, has been around for a very long time. In fact, the Japanese water therapy is extremely popular not only in Japan, but throughout the world. We all know that our bodies are made up of 60-70% water so when the amount of water in our body reduces, we face different health problems since our organs can’t function without water.

Condition: 

We should never overdo this water therapy. Drinking excess water in a short time can lead to what is known as “fatal water poisoning” or affect our kidney. Now the level of excessive water depends on factors like age, person’s fitness level, weight, climatic conditions etc has to be taken into account. Too much of a good thing is also not good either, and this certainly goes with Japanese water therapy as well. So some conditions & precautions are to taken before we go for Japanese water therapy.