Ayurveda is an ancient Indian healing system that deals with herbs, meditation, yoga, and many other things to treat and prevent diseases. Ayurvedic herbs are very beneficial in treating various diseases without causing any harmful side effects.
Ayurvedic treatment is widely accepted and performed in Asia. It is a traditional medical system that focuses on health and homeostasis. The roots of this system go back to the 2nd Century BC, almost 3,000 years ago.
Various diseases, such as anxiety, asthma, arthritis, digestive problems, eczema, and even high blood pressure, are treatable with Ayurvedic medicines.
So, let us dive into this blog post, where we will discuss the benefits of Ayurveda and the best herbs to consume for daily body immunity.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term that combines two words: ayur (life) and Veda (knowledge or science). Instead of targeting a specific body part or disease, Ayurvedic herbs approach the body holistically, considering the body, mind, emotions, spirit, and environment.
It offers a range of treatments, including:-
- Panchakarma or 5 actions
- Yoga
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Herbal medicine
- Special diets
- Meditation
- Laxatives
- Enemas
- Medical oils
Ayurvedic medicines are usually prepared based on complex herbal compounds, minerals, and substances mentioned in the “Vedas.”
Along with taking the Ayurvedic herbs, a patient must follow a diet consisting of whole foods, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and dairy foods.
Most Powerful Ayurvedic Herbs
There are more than 10,000 plants in India used for ayurvedic medicinal purposes. However, only about 1500 herbs have been integrated into the official ayurvedic pharmacopeia in more than 3000 years.
Each plant should be studied carefully and thoroughly before being made a part of the ayurvedic pharmacopeia.
Given that, here is a list of the 10 Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices with Health Benefits used in making medicines:-
- Ashwagandha
- Brahmi
- Triphala
- Turmeric
- Amla
- Gotu Kola
- Licorice root
- Cardamom
- Shatavari
- Tulsi
Benefits Of Ayurvedic Herbs
Now that you know what Ayurveda is and what the top Ayurvedic herbs are, it is time to look at some of their benefits to the human body.
Natural Approach
One of the major benefits of Ayurvedic herbs is that they are a natural way of treating health-related problems. They have plant-derived medicinal components that help heal the body from within and strengthen the immune system.
It uses various techniques to improve a person’s health, well-being, and state of mind. Some of these include:-
- Dietary changes
- Herbal remedies
- Massage therapy
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Detoxification
- The mind-body connection
- Acupuncture
Fewer Side Effects
Ayurvedic herbs are known for having fewer side effects on the human body. Since it uses a natural healing system, it causes fewer complications during treatment. However, one must understand that it is not devoid of adverse effects.
Some minor complications associated with ayurvedic herbs include:-
- Hypersensitivity rash
- Drowsiness
- Stomach discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Elevation in liver enzymes
- Hallucinations
- Heavy metal toxicity
- Arsenic poisoning
Good Health of Skin and Hair
Aloe vera, Saffron, Turmeric, Ginger, cinnamon, and licorice are Indian ayurvedic herbs associated with good skin and hair health. They improve skin glow, regulate sebum production, keep skin and hair hydrated, enhance hair strength, and provide shine.
Regularly using these ayurvedic herbs can filter blood and regulate body temperature, eliminating toxicity from the body.
Maintains Body Weight
Ayurvedic herbs are associated with weight management and control. They clean the body from within, remove toxins, improve blood circulation, and aid in digestion.
Ama Pachana is an Ayurvedic practice that deals with the removal of toxins from the body. It can be done by consuming herbs such as Guggulu, Triphala, and Trikatu. These supplements help improve metabolism and aid weight loss.
Relaxes Mind
Ayurvedic herbs relax the mind by releasing hormones such as Endorphins, Dopamine, Oxytocin, and Serotonin.
Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Indian valerian, and Jatamansi are some herbs that help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms by calming the mind.
Pizhichil is another Indian Ayurvedic herb that can help with oxidative stress. You may also get a massage using medicated oils that can help the system relax.
Reduce Inflammation
Muscle or skin inflammation is a common problem that can be caused by hormone imbalance, improper diet, poor digestive system, or associated liver problems.
Increased inflammation in the nerves, muscles, or skin is caused when your body detects any irritant and the immune system comes into action. Ayurvedic herbs are a natural remedy that does not trigger the immune system and calms any ongoing inflammation by reducing triggering chemicals.
Detoxes The Body
A natural technique called “Ayurvedic Detox” is performed, which uses different Ayurvedic herbs to clean the body from within. Usually, ginger, turmeric, coriander, fennel, and fenugreek are incorporated into the diet in a specific amount.
These spices support the flow of toxins from the skin, urinary tract, colon, and liver.
Improves Cognition
Ayurvedic treatment for cognition, memory, and concentration involves including Brahmi, Shankhapushpi, Ashwagandha, and Almonds in the diet.
These ayurvedic herbs can improve memory and cognitive function by balancing the “vata dosha.” This dosha guides the brain’s memory movement and thoughts of mind. If this is balanced, then the brain’s cognitive functions are highly improved.
Lowers Cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that our body produces naturally from the food. It is essential for performing various cell cycle activities, such as the production of various vital nutrients in the body. However, high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
Medicago Satina, Arjuna, Coriander, Garlic, Guggulu, Holy basil, or Tulsi are some ayurvedic herbs that lower the cholesterol levels in the body. They relieve heart artery blockage and improve blood flow.
Increases Testosterone
Ayurvedic herbs increase the production of testosterone in the body. Ashwagandha is popularly used in Ayurvedic treatment to boost testosterone and reduce oxidative stress in the testes.
Furthermore, it increases the levels of Luteining Hormone (LH) in the body. This hormone is responsible for the production of testosterone in the male body.
Summary
Ayurveda is a traditional health healing system derived from plants/herbs. Doctors use various ayurvedic herbs for the treatment of various diseases and for preventing health-related issues. Its benefits include good skin and hair health, natural treatment, maintaining body weight, a relaxed mind, reduced inflammation, and much more.
Therefore, you should regularly include Ashwagandha, Triphala, Turmeric, Amla, Licorice root, Cardamom, Tulsi, and Cumin in your diet.