Ayurveda Herbs Everyone Should Know About

Today, Ayurveda is growing rapidly. Its popularity has made people realize in the west about its healing properties. Ayurvedic herbs play a significant role in our health system.

 Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) - Ashwagandha is favored for its potential to upgrade energy and endurance without triggering the heart. The name roughly translates “Strength of a horse”. Ayurveda mentions the roots of Ashwagandha has properties like Medhya (promotes intelligence and mental development), Balya (heightens power and recovery), Rasayana (restoration of youthful appearance), and Nidrajanana (promoter of good sleep). Introductory research suggests this herbal medicine may have powers to reduce long-term anxious behaviors as it can prevent the development of dopamine receptors in the corpus striatum (Upton R, ed: Amer Herbal Pharmacopoeia 2000:1-25).

 Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) - Popularly known as Tulsi, this antiviral herb is regarded sacred in many parts of India. The compounds of this herb comprise eugenol and caryophyllene; known for its antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and painkilling properties. Ayurveda mentions Tulsi possesses antibiotic powers to minimize immoderate moisture in the lungs. Recent clinical trials reveal tulsi can improve the potential of lungs and lower labored breathing. Since COVID-19 attacks our respiratory organs, this sacred herb could be the probable ayurvedic medicine for coronavirus.

 Turmeric (Curcuma longa) - This kitchen ingredient has jaw-dropping medicinal properties. It is one of the true treasures of Ayurveda. Several studies have been conducted in recent years on Turmeric’s main components - curcuminoids and curcumin. It has shown amazing health benefiting results as high antioxidant activity, control of inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer prevention. Additionally, Haldi brings down thromboxane synthesis too by reducing the constriction of blood vessels and platelet accumulation.

 Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) - Also known as the bitter gourd is a great source of several key nutrients like calories: 20, carbs: 4 grams, fiber: 2 grams, vitamin c: 93% of the (Reference Daily Intake), Vitamin A: 44% of the RDI, Folate: 17% of the RDI, Potassium: 8% of the RDI, Zinc: 5% of the RDI, and Iron: 4% of the RDI. Studies suggest bitter melon increases insulin secretion from the pancreas and also supplies a unique compound called polypeptide-P. This compound has an identical structure to bovine insulin. Hence, you can consume it occasionally.

 Triphala - This is a typical component in many Ayurvedic treatments. Its a combination of three fruits and incorporates the elements of Emblica Officinalis, Belleric myrobian, and chebulic myrobian. Triphala detoxifies the body and corrects digestion by elevating peristalsis. It also produces anti-inflammatory actions on organs located in the lower GI (gastrointestinal) tract. Globally, Triphala is most commonly used for GI-related problems such as poor digestion, fatigue after meals, chronic constipation, and bloating.

 Trikatu - This is also a three-element combination. It consists of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum), Indian Long Pepper (Piper longum), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Practitioners of Ayurveda regard Trikatu as a “warming formula”. Trikatu is used to enhance the manufacturing of digestive enzymes by probably increasing the availability of drugs, nutrients, and supplements. It also normalizes gastric emptying by promoting the absorption of food through the intestines.

 You can consult a physician and add these herbs to your regular diet for better health results.