Indian Restaurants Database

Database of Indian Restaurants in USA and U.K.: Classified information of Indian  restaurants located in US, UK. Complete postal addresses of 3000+ of Restaurants.

Available in : CD/e-mail edition (Price Rs. 2500/-  

For more details: International information Resource Centre

POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR J&K 190001

Ph: 01933-223705

Mob: 09858986794

e-mail: iirc@rediffmail.com

Ginkgo biloba Tea

Properties : helps reduce blood hypertension, is lipid-lowering, enhances blood flow, diminshes damage to the brain cells due to oxygen shortage, blocks free radicals, improves memory.

Ginko biloba improves memory and brain function and helps to preserve general health and vitality. Research and clinical studies show promise for the use of Ginkgo biloba extracts for improving memory and helping with some of the symptoms of Alzheimers disease.

The remarkable effects of ginkgo biloba on brain function and circulation have made this venerable tree one of the most extensively studied and widely used botanicals in the world. Millions of Americans and Europeans now enjoy the benefits of ginkgo for memory, cognitive function, circulatory disorders, and conditions of the eyes and ears. No other known circulation enhancer, natural or synthetic, can increase blood flow not only to healthy areas of the brain, but also to areas already damaged by disease. In addition, ginkgo's powerful antioxidant effects have earned it an international reputation as an "anti-aging" herb among young and old alike.

Gingko Biloba has been used in TCM to improve the heart and lungs function, to relieve coughs, asthma, and allergic inflammations. Scientists think this function, along with a potential ability to dilate blood vessels, accounts for its record of use in treating asthma in China for thousands of years. Ginkgo biloba leaves extract has been shown to dilate blood vessels, and improve cognitive function. Ginkgo has been extensively researched for its possible benefits to the elderly. Studies indicate ginkgo has the ability to increase circulation which can lead to enhanced memory.Ginkgo is a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute to premature aging. Antioxidants also protect the eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous system. It may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries.

Gingko biloba's beneficial effect on improving blood circulation may have positive benefits for sexual dysfunction. In one open clinical trial involving 60 patients having erectile dysfunction, 50% of the patients regained potency after six months of treatment with Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo is slow acting, taking four to eight weeks before benefits may be noticed. Improvements are gradual, but continue for up to a year or more.

Ginkgo and Cerebral Brain Disorder Research : In a multicenter, double-blind, Ginkgo versus placebo trial involving 166 patients, Ginkgo biloba extract is found to be effective against cerebral disorders due to aging 3 months after treatment and continued to increase during the following months. Taillandier J, Ammar A, Rabourdin JP, Ribeyre JP, Pichon J, Niddam S, Pierart H. Presse Med. 1986 Sep 25;15(31):1583-7. French.

Ginkgo improves Cognitive Function : Ginkgo biloba extract has been reputed to ameliorate cognitive decline in the elderly and slow cognitive deterioration in patients with dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Ginkgo remains as one of the most popular plant extracts to alleviate symptoms associated with a range of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia and age-related amnesic conditions. Ginkgo is known to contain a range of chemically active components that have antagonistic effects on platelet-activating factor, free-radical scavenging activity (antioxidant) and direct effects on the cholinergic neurotransmitter system. In a 30-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in which 61 participants were administered with various neuropsychological tests before and after treatment. Statistical analysis indicated significant improvements in speed of information processing working memory and executive processing attributable to the Ginkgo Biloba Extract. Stough C, Clarke J, Lloyd J, Nathan PJ. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2001 Jun;4(2):131-4.

Ginkgo reduces oxidative free radicals in Alzheimer's disease : The role of amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) in the free-radical oxidative-stress model of neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has received much attention recently. Treatment of the cells with Ginkgo biloba extract significantly reduce the levels of hydrogen peroxide related reactive oxygen species. Among the Ginkgo active components tested, kaempferol and quercetin provided maximum attenuation. Smith JV, Luo Y. J Alzheimers Dis. 2003 Aug;5(4):287-300.

Gingko reduces Leg Pain associated with Intermittent Claudication : Because of its effects on the circulatory system, ginkgo may also ease the leg pain that arises from intermittent claudication and similar disorders. One study even found that ginkgo performed as well as a leading prescription medication for treating intermittent claudication.

Ginkgo improves Antidepressant-induced Sexual Dysfunction : Ginkgo has also been used to treat impotence, especially when associated with antidepressant therapy. In an open trial ginkgo biloba was found to be 84% effective in treating antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction predominantly caused by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs, N = 63). Women (n = 33) were more responsive to the sexually enhancing effects of ginkgo biloba than men (N = 30), with relative success rates of 91% versus 76%. Ginkgo biloba generally had a positive effect on all 4 phases of the sexual response cycle: desire, excitement (erection and lubrication), orgasm, and resolution (afterglow). Patients exhibited sexual dysfunction secondary to a variety of antidepressant medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs), serotonin and nonrepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRIs) monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOIs), and tricyclics. Dosages of ginkgo biloba extract ranged from 60 mg qd to 120 mg bid (average = 209mg/d).

Ginkgo as Antioxidant : Ginkgo is an antioxidant, giving it the ability to help rid the body of free radicals and thus lessen the risk of chronic degenerative diseases. Also due to the antioxidant activity of ginkgo, it may help treat macular degeneration and decrease the damaging effects of radiation, chemotherapy, and certain medications. Enhanced cell death and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a major role in aging. Several neurodegenerative diseases are associated with increased oxidative stress and cell death in neuronal tissue. Antioxidative treatment has neuro-protective effects. Mice were treated daily with 100 mg/kg Ginkgo Extract for two weeks showed significant reduction in ROS induced cell death.

Ginkgo biloba Indication : Symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate cerebrovascular insufficiency (demential syndrome in primary degenerative dementia, vascular dementia and mixed rorms of both) with the following symptoms:

memory deficit disturbance in concentration, depressive emotion condition, dizziness and headache, Improve pain-free walking distance in people with peripheral arterial occlusive disease, i.e. intermittent claudication, Raynaud's disease, acrocyanosis and post-phlebitis syndrome

Treatment of inner-ear disorders, i.e. tinnitus and vertigo of vascular and involutive origin

Ginkgo Supplement Health Benefits : Ginkgo biloba improves capillary circulation and acts as a blood thinner, which improves circulation to all of the tissues and organs such as the brain and heart.

Ginkgo biloba interferes with PAF (platelet activating factor) which has been shown to possibly cause asthma, heart disease, hearing disorders and skin disorders like psoriasis.

Ginkgo biloba helps stop the damage to our organs and tissues by free radicals. It is a good antioxidant and free radical scavenger.

How can I make tea from the leaves?

After picking the green leaves (late summer/early fall), shade-dry them on a screen, allowing good air circulation from the bottom and the top. Best condition is one that will dry the leaves quickly but not overheat them. Never dry leaves in the sun. To test that the leaves are thoroughly dried, "snap" a leaf stem to make sure.

You may also dry them in your microwave. Put some leaves between two paper towels and microwave for 60 seconds on high. If crisp, the leaves are dry, otherwise microwave further at 15 seconds intervals.

When the leaves are dried, put them in a paper bag inside a plastic bag, and store them in a cool, dark place - in a tinted glass jar is best.

Ginkgo plant/seed/leaf available in Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction centre

More details:  jkmpic@gmail.com, jkmpic@yahoo.in
Ph: 9858986794, 01933-223705
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Good militants ensured smooth Amarnath Yatra: IG CRPF ‘Not A Single Stone Hurled During Pilgrimage Period’

Srinagar, Aug 20: In disputed state of Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Inspector General of Central Reserve of Police Force (Operations) Dr B N Ramesh Friday said good elements within the ranks of militants played their role in the conduct of smooth Amarnath Yatra this year.

“If there are good hearted militants they too played their role. They couldn’t create much disturbance this time, perhaps they too had intentions of not doing much this time,” he said addressing a news conference here.

Commending the locals for the smooth conduct of Yatra, Ramesh said not a single incident of stone-pelting was witnessed during the Yatra period this year.

“Not a single stone was hurled on CRPF or any other vehicle.  Although they (youth) carried stones in their hands, but when we appealed they left stones and took decision by their heart and not mind,” he said, adding that prior to the pilgrimage CRPF build atmosphere for conducting smooth Yatra.

Replying to a query on whether CRPF had any plans to reduce the bunkers from the towns of the Valley on the pattern of Srinagar, he said that there are no permanent bunkers in Valley except in summer capital.

He said that the bunkers definitely cause inconvenience and are stumbling block to the return of normalcy, but added that concerned Superintendent of Police has to take decision on their removal.

When asked about the presence of dozens of bunkers in Sopore, Ramesh said that the Apple town is a special case requiring special measures.

“When Abbotabad episode took place on May 2, we were in the town given its sensitivity,” he said.
The CRPF operations chief asserted that they have achieved lot of success in anti-militancy operations during the past few weeks.

“There is our role also in surrender of Basharat commander of Pirpanchal range. We have also recovered cache of arms and ammunition from Pulwama and Tral,” he said.

Ramesh said CRPF would welcome the misguided youth who want to return back to the normal fold of life.”
If they want our assistance, we will assist them,” he said.

Claiming that the force has not committed a single act of human rights violation during the past ten months, Ramesh said that there are strict instructions from Union Home Secretary and Director General CRPF on their sector to safeguard rights.

He also added that they are also modifying rules for the recruitment of Kashmiri youth in CRPF.

Father of Jahad-e-Kashmir Sheikh Abdul Aziz

FIRST PERSON

A March For History : August 11, 2008 will remain ingrained in Kashmir’s psyche, the day Kashmiris responded to the blatant economic blockade by right-wing Hindu nationalists in Jammu to break the resolve of a people. Showkat Nanda offers a first person account of how lakhs marched towards Muzzafarabad braving bullets.

The ‘other’ side never seemed so close before. For some, who had left home early that day, coming back didn’t really matter. To reach Muzzafarabad was a ‘matter of minutes’ only if they were given a safe passage. If not, they could face death and they knew it.

In Baramulla the journey began in trucks, buses, cars  and motor bikes. Hundreds marched on foot too. Vehicles were honking. Everyone was celebrating. It was a truly popular rebellion, mobilizing the entire society to protest and build a parallel leadership - the leadership of the people. For the first time in my life, I could see people in control of their own destiny.

Women and children lined the sides of the road; some throwing food packets, water bottles, fruits and biscuits at the marchers, some praying for their safety and a few others trying to synchronize with the roaring slogans of Pindi Pindi, Rawalpindi.

A long serpentine line of about 1000 buses and trucks spread over almost five kilometers, driving through the mountainous terrain near Khadinyar, looked as if people were on a pilgrimage. Faces were jubilant, people were screaming with excitement overtaking each other impatiently.

The moment we took a the blind turn near Chahal,  a small township nearly 20 kms from Baramulla, I could see a crowd of paramilitary soldiers sitting in a similar manner we would sit for a group photograph in our school- the first row resting on their bellies in a typical firing position, their guns pointing directly towards the anticipated marchers. The second row stood on one of their knees using the other one as a resting stand for their guns. The third line of soldiers confidently stood in a standing position as a backup, I suppose.

The road behind them had been dug deep with bulldozers making a big rectangular crater across it. A couple of huge tree trunks had also been placed across the road to prevent vehicles from going further.

The vehicles drove slowly towards the soldiers. People had absolutely no idea what was going to happen. Their sheer number had given them an unshakable confidence.

After all, from Sopore fruit Mandi to this village of Chahl, people had already dared half a dozen paramilitary camps, even braved bullets and cleared hundreds of meters of concertina wire spread at a distance of every five minutes as road blockades. As vehicles and marchers moved forward, a blast on a hill on left side of the highway created a huge ball of cloud ripping off the leaves from the trees. It looked like an IED blast that had already been planted by the forces apparently to intimidate the crowds.

Suddenly, teargas shells  and gunfire rained into the crowd. A bus that was leading the huge procession got hit several times. People fell out of it and scrambled, crawling towards its tyres. They ran for cover amid a dense mixture of tear smoke and dust which almost blocked the sunlight making the whole atmosphere somber and ghostly.

 Some climbed up the hill on the left side of the highway hoping to hide themselves behind huge pine and deodar trees while some others jumped off the road on the right side down the river banks. The atmosphere had turned foggy and there was anger everywhere. The drivers drove backwards but there was hardly anything they could do. It was too difficult to negotiate through an unimaginably long line of vehicles spread over almost five kilometers. They had already crossed the last turn and were straight into the firing line of the soldiers.

A few young men were trying to pull the wounded towards the bus that had already been targeted. People were screaming. Gunfire rattled on.

Inside the buses that stood behind the first one, frightened faces were pressed against the windows. They remained cuddled in their seats. Anyone stepping off the bus risked being shot.

A group of people I was a part of were in the middle of the road trying to look for a cover. We had really no place to hide. The two sides on our left or right were too steep to either climb the hill or jump down the paddy fields near the river banks. But a huge rock on one side of the road stood between us and the soldiers; it actually stood between our survival and death.

There were two of us left of the group - me and a boy who hunkered down behind me sharing the cover of the rock. I don’t know how long we stood there. But we could continuously listen to the rattle of gunfire. Many a time he would try to leave the place lured by his anger to throw stones at the government forces, but every time I held him back . There was no point in trying to be bold. We were, at the most, 30 meters away from the spot where several people had already been hit; bullets tearing though their bellies and chests.

When the firing stopped, I, along with dozens of other people, tried to get close to the spot where the firing had actually taken place. Nobody knew how many marchers had been hit. There was no count really. I could only see a trail of blood and a few pairs of shoes lying on the ground. On the other side, the soldiers remorselessly looked at the protestors collecting the dead and the wounded.

People, while carrying the injured, from the crowd were screaming, “this is my cousin,”…”that’s my friend’s brother”. It looked like a massacre. One of the young men who was hit several times was lying on the floor of a truck. He  shouted, “I want to go home,”. His brother who sat next to him repeated, with tears rolling down his cheeks. “I want to go home too. We will. You just bet we will,”. Half an hour later, on way to Baramulla hospital,  he lost both - the bet and his brother.

Between 2 and 3 p.m, nearly 15 people had been hit with bullets. By the time the dead and the injured had been evacuated, people again decided to march ahead. It was surprising that despite three men already shot dead and dozens wounded, people just didn’t stop. In my life I had never seen people marching directly into a hail of gunfire.

The slogans began roaring again, this time even louder. I could see fearless faces all around me. As hundreds started marching ahead, I heard a series of teargas blasts in quick succession. While I was running for cover, I found people behind me glued to the ground. They didn’t budge an inch. Suddenly, a rumble of gunshots followed. I scanned my body to see if I had been hit. My body was trembling. “This time it’s definitely a massacre”, I thought, because the intensity of the gunfire was enormous.

Minutes later, someone shouted from the crowd, “Sheikh Aziz has been hit with a bullet,”. All of a sudden, hundreds of people stepped out of the vehicles and began shouting “ shaheed ki jo mout hai, woh qaum ki hayat hai’, not knowing that Sheikh was still alive, and talking. Amid a dense cloud of dust and tear smoke, I could faintly see an injured Shiekh Aziz being lifted up into a truck that began racing towards me, dozens clinging to its sides and hundreds chasing it shouting “Sheikh Aziz ka kya farmaan, Kashmir banega Pakistan”.

I couldn’t believe myself. Moments earlier, I had seen him grabbing the hands of two young protestors each on either of his side and heard him saying, “We will march on. Let’s  see how many more will they kill”. Honestly, I hadn’t seen him from so close ever before that. I could see no fear on his face. There was a strange seriousness on it.

What I could hear that moment was the cries of people carrying the dead and the injured. Yells, screams and slogans resonated in the air. Ambulances and trucks carrying the dead and injured raced away from the scene.

Till 5 p.m ,four sessions of targeted firing had passed. Four people had already died. And many more were injured. But still people didn’t give up. As the death toll reached five, rest of the valley was already on fire. In Baramulla town where the injured were initially referred for treatment, the rumors of more than a hundred marchers being killed had already broken backs. The situation had turned riot-like. Bunkers were flattened, vehicles burnt, and every single symbol that even remotely represented the idea of India was razed to the ground.

VEDIO OF 11th August: Muzaffarabad Challo (Come to Muzaffarabad

http://www.kbcchannel.tv/index.php?option=com_hwdvideoshare&task=viewvideo&Itemid=125&video_id=95
I came home that day. Emotionally exhausted but grateful - I had survived.

As I sit in my office writing this, I am haunted by a question. How could they shoot people like that. Just watch a crowd march on; sit in a firing position, wait, watch and fire.

About the author: Showkat Nanda is an Assistant Editor with Kashmir Life
More details: Kashmir Life : 
http://www.kashmirlife.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1862:a-march-for-history&catid=69:history&Itemid=211:Vol. No: 3, Issue No: 23, August 20,2011