The traditional Indian system of medicines, Ayurveda, relies greatly on the use of herbs and spices in day to day life. Ayurveda believes in a mix of diet, exercise and lifestyle changes to usher in good health. It aims to prevent rather than cure by approaching a holistic way of living close to nature and by using natural remedies. Herbs, spices and plants form an important part of this holistic science. These can be applied externally by various procedures or taken orally by mixing it with food or as medicine.
There are a few herbs which are extremely beneficial, if made a part of our daily lives. This article lists down such 10 most powerful Ayurvedic herbs and spices from the Ayurvedic herbs list. You may already be using a few of them since our traditional way of preparing meals originally stemmed from the knowledge and principles of Ayurveda
Table of Content10 Powerful Ayurvedic Herbs & Spices |
Triphala
As the name suggests, Triphala is a combination of three of the most potent herbs in Ayurveda, namely, the fruits of Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki. This is available in powder and capsule form. The powder can be used to make tea or as an oral rinse. The health benefits include:
- Triphala powder as a mouth rinse diminishes plaque and gingivitis.
- Triphala is known to reduce blood sugar levels.
- It is a panacea medicine for constipation.
- It has anti-carcinogenic properties.
- Due to the presence of Amalaki and Haritaki, it is one of the best Ayurvedic herbs for weight loss.
Related Products: Triphala Powder and Triphala Capsules
Giloy
Giloy has been used in Ayurveda for ages. The stem of the plant is considered highly beneficial because of its nutritional content but the leaves and roots are also used. Boiling some stems in water until reduced to half and drinking it daily helps purify the blood. Giloy syrup can be mixed with water and consumed on an empty stomach. It is also available as Giloy powder or tablets. Giloy is especially popular because:
- It is the greatest immunity booster, therefore a must have during this time of pandemic.
- It increases insulin response in the body thus reducing the occurrence of diabetes. It also helps treat Diabetes Type 2.
- Treats dengue and hay fever.
- It calms the mind and body and reduces anxiety and stress.
- It improves eye-sight.
Related Product: Giloy Vati
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha means the smell of a horse in Sanskrit. Just like the unique scent and strength of the horse, this herb boosts physical strength and athletic ability. Pure extracts of the roots or leaves of the plant are used to treat a variety of conditions. The important health benefits are:
- Improves strength and immunity
- Highly effective in boosting sexual performance
- Induces sleep and cures sleep disorder
- Regulates cholesterol level
- The antioxidants present enhance neural functions and protect brain cells from damage.
Related Products: Ashwagandha Powder and Ashwagandha Capsules
Turmeric
Turmeric is a household spice that you will find in every kitchen and almost all the food that we eat. The West is now acknowledging what we, Indians, have known for the longest of times. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties because of the compound called curcumin. The benefits of turmeric are many:
- It prevents the hardening of arteries to facilitate blood flow thus lowering the risk of heart disease.
- Curcumin present in turmeric is believed to prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the body.
- Turmeric prevents the production of toxins that cause swelling and reduces pain in damaged cartilage. This helps relieve the symptoms of arthritis.
- Research has shown that curcumin reduces depression.
- It is effective in treating acne, spots and blemishes.
Related Products: Turmeric Powder and UnSugar Turmeric Latte
Brahmi
Brahmi refers to the extracts of Bacopa Monnieri and derives its name as a feminine version of the Hindu God of Creation, Lord Brahma. The Vedic sages were known to consume Brahmi to enhance their memory so as to memorize the oral knowledge being passed down from one generation to the other. Apart from being the best Ayurvedic herb for boosting memory, Brahmi is beneficial since:
- It is an Ayurvedic herb for insomnia.
- It relaxes the nerves and helps in anger management.
- It enhances concentration and cognitive ability.
- It treats forgetfulness.
- Oil made with Brahmi is very good for hair.
- It is also helpful in joint pain.
Related Products: Brahmi Powder, Brahmi Capsules, Brahmi Rasayanam
Neem
One of the well known Ayurvedic herbs for skin, Neem is an effective antiviral and a powerful immune-stimulant. Being anti-bacterial, it destroys the infection-causing bacteria and helps in fast healing. All the parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. There are some major health benefits of this widely available herb:
- Since olden times, the twigs of the Neem Tree are used for brushing teeth. This removes tooth plaque, treats gingivitis, maintains the alkaline levels in the saliva while it helps to achieve whiter teeth.
- Neem is used to treat all kinds of skin problems including eczema, ringworms, etc. It is extremely nourishing for skin and hair and can help relieve skin irritation or itching. It also prevents dandruff and reduces hair fall.
- It repels mosquitoes.
- Neem paste is an excellent wound healer.
- It also enhances gastrointestinal health.
Related Products: Neem Capsules and Neem Powder
Tulsi
Tulsi or the holy basil is a part of each and every household in India. It is also known as the ‘Queen of Herbs’ and is highly revered for its spiritual and medicinal properties in Ayurveda. Ayurveda suggests that Tulsi is a tonic for mind, body and soul. Tulsi is widely used in all temples and is a part of the daily offering. Some of the immense benefits of Tulsi are:
- Tulsi is a powerful adaptogen that not only boosts energy but also helps the body to adapt to stress.
- It strengthens immunity.
- It cures fever and respiratory disorders.
- It is useful in the treatment of kidney stones.
- It helps keep cholesterol in check.
Related Products: Tulsi Powder
Ajwain
Carom seeds or Ajwain is one of those rare herbs which adds an amazing flavour to food and is super good for health. Ajwain seeds are extremely rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. The key benefits of this Ayurvedic herb are listed below:
- Ajwain gives instant relief from acidity or heartburn. It helps treat indigestion as well.
- Ajwain oil is used to provide relief in earache and toothache.
- The fumes of heated Ajwain clear the nasal passage. It is heated and the smoke inhaled to give relief in the common cold or a headache. It is especially used for small children when their nasal passage is blocked.
- It is also an excellent mosquito repellant.
- It lightens acne scars.
Related Products: Fever Kit
Mulethi
Mulethi or Licorice is the ultimate home remedy for cough and cold across India. The Mulethi powder is made from the roots of the plant. Its sweet taste also makes it a part of a variety of culinary experiences. From the plethora of benefits that this root herb offers, below are listed a few of them:
- It improves respiratory functions.
- It improves intestinal functions to increase nutrient absorption.
- It is known to improve stamina and vitality in men and reproductive health in women.
- It depigments the skin and improves complexion.
- It strengthens the hair strands and prevents hair fall and dandruff
Related Products: Yashtimadhu Powder
Bhringaraj
One of the most potent Ayurvedic herbs for hair, Bhringaraj is highly recommended for long, silky, shiny, smooth and strong hair. It reverses premature graying of hair and reduces hair fall. It enhances the natural colour of the hair. Although it is known as the ‘King of the hair”, it’s benefits include many more:
- It acts as a detoxifier and purifies the blood.
- It treats digestive disorders.
- It helps in treating liver and kidney disorders.
- While being the best tonic for the hair, it also treats skin problems.
- Its cooling nature calms the mind.
Related Products: Bhringaraj Powder
Precautions
In their purest forms, Ayurvedic medicines are completely safe. However, the possibility of adulteration cannot be undermined. While purchasing Ayurvedic herbs, ensure that the source is trustworthy. Nirogam prepares its Ayurvedic formulations with herbs that are 100% authentic and side-effect free. When taking Ayurvedic herbs internally, it is best to consult your health care provider for do’s and don'ts. Nirogam also provides consultation services from qualified Ayurvedic doctors.
Ayurveda is a treasure trove of herbs and spices that keep us physically fit and healthy, inside out. It aims at striking a balance between the body, mind and soul. All we need to do is to reap this age-old wisdom’s benefits by incorporating it into our daily lifestyle in the right way. Make a start now.
