How herbal products are shaping a new consumer demographic in India

In my previous post I had written about the need to look at natural/herbal cosmetics. I feel the younger generation is going to insist on cosmetics and instead of denying them the item, it would be better to find safe alternatives and let them use it. We know that children go through a phase. My daughter had a “pink and purple” phase where she refused to wear clothes that weren’t in these colors. It lasted about 2 years – where we bought her new clothes only in these colors and negotiated a deal to wear other colors on 3 days of the week – before she finally gave it up this year with her younger sister’s entry into the world.

(more…)

Continue ReadingHow herbal products are shaping a new consumer demographic in India

Seeking herbal alternatives for better health in India

It is no surprise that herbal products are safer for human consumption. But, it is a wonder how little of herbal items occupy our cupboards, bathrooms and kitchen shelves. I discovered this the hard way when my five year old daughter insisted on using my lipstick – not once but multiple times. Despite asking her to refrain from touching things that didn’t belong to her, she would stealthily take the lipstick and apply it in my absence. (Her preening off to my baby sitter was how I found out).

(more…)

Continue ReadingSeeking herbal alternatives for better health in India

What Indian Healthcare system needs is empathy

Often physicians and doctors are seen as top professional who do what they do and make you better. But does the healthcare system needs more empathy ? I am often go back to the memories of the last days of my grandfather. He was 85 plus and struggling with his kidneys. He was finally admitted to the AIIMS in Delhi.

(more…)

Continue ReadingWhat Indian Healthcare system needs is empathy

3 steps for an effective patient education program

Recently, my mother-in-law underwent bypass surgery. While the doctor treating her told her about how her diet should limit fried foods and spicy items for at least 6 months, he did not tell her what other complications she may experience, considering she is diabetic as well. Further, there was no counselling support provided to help her mentally cope with the surgery. A woman who has been running her household for close to 35 years, cannot simply be told to sit in a corner and let others take over. As a result her self-esteem took a beating. Further, the doctor overlooked the fact that her husband, who is older to her, may not be able to provide care for her. No alternate arrangements were discussed. A year post surgery, she discovered a hemorrhage in the eye which surfaced as a red spot in the eye, causing panic, when diagnosed.  She wasn’t mentally prepared for such a scenario and is finding it difficult to cope.

(more…)

Continue Reading3 steps for an effective patient education program

Infant Mortality Rate in India- Falling but not fast enough

As India continues to grapple with the challenge of providing healthcare to a Bullion plus people, it continues to struggle with some basic indicators of good health. In 2013 I had covered the challenges with some of our healthcare parameters that were than some of our neighbors.

(more…)

Continue ReadingInfant Mortality Rate in India- Falling but not fast enough