Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
India celebrates National Ayurveda Day every year since 2016 on the occasion of Dhanteras. The day is observed to mark the strengths of Ayurveda and its unique and prominent treatment principles. The main objective of observing this day is to reduce the impact of several acute and chronic illnesses through the medium of Ayurveda.
As per Indian mythology, Lord Dhanvantri is the God of Ayurveda and is considered to be the healer of all ailments. In India, the practice of Ayurveda has been present for thousands of years, dating back to the earliest written records, and its medicinal and yogic approaches have been known to cure several illnesses effectively.
As per records, the positive impact of Ayurveda was not only embraced and is still being followed in India, it has also become a scientifically-proven medical practice across the world.
When we talk about Ayurveda, there’s no single approach that one can focus on, as the term involves several different concepts that focus on the overall welling. Some of the most important approaches include:
- Bala: Increasing strength
- Vyadhi Kshamathwa: Developing resistance to various ailments
- Ojas: Developing supreme resilience
Ayurveda is perceived as one of the most well-documented and most ancient methods that are relevant even today to cure or manage a host of chronic illnesses. In this article, we bring you the seven powerful and effective herbs and spices with their respective health benefits.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is known to carry the properties of an adaptogen, which makes it an excellent ingredient that can be used to manage stress as it helps in reducing cortisol levels. Ashwagandha is also useful when it comes to managing anxiety and aids in improving the sleep cycle in people with stress and anxiety disorder.
When it comes to boosting immunity, ashwagandha is one of the most trusted ayurvedic herbs. Research studies also back important benefits of ashwagandha which include:
- Enhancing muscle growth
- Increasing memory power
- Improving male fertility
- Lowering blood sugar levels
- Reduce inflammation
Boswellia
Boswellia, an ayurvedic herb that is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia serrate tree is best known for its spicy and woody aroma. Research studies prove that this herb helps in reducing inflammation by obstructing the release of inflammation-causing compounds, called leukotrienes.
Consuming Boswellia can benefit your health in several ways, which include:
- Reducing pain
- Improving mobility
- Controlling the worsening of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Preventing oral infections
- Improving digestion in people who have ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Ease breathing in people with chronic asthma
Triphala
Triphala is an ayurvedic remedy prepared by using three spices which include amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Studies show that consuming Triphala can help in reducing inflammation caused due to arthritis and may even prevent or limit the growth of certain types of cancer. This medicinal herb also benefits your health in several other ways, such as:
- Reducing constipation
- Managing abdominal pain
- Promoting better bowel movements
- Reducing plaque build up in the mouth
- Decreasing gum inflammation
- Preventing the occurrence of mouth bacteria
Brahmi
In Ayurveda, Brahmi is considered to be a staple herb. Studies suggest that Brahmi has strong anti-inflammatory properties that are equally effective as common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Consuming Brahmi regularly can greatly reinforce mental health as it helps in reducing the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), which include inattention, impulsivity, poor self-control, and restlessness. Some studies also support the use of Brahmi to manage stress and anxiety as it contains adaptogenic properties.
Cumin
Cumin or jeera is a spice that is commonly used in almost every Indian household. Its distinctive earthy, nutty, and spicy flavour adds aroma to the food and makes it more healthy and delicious.
Cumin benefits the overall health by boosting the activity of digestive enzymes and promotes liver functioning by easing the release of bile for healthy digestion.
This ayurvedic spice has several other health benefits which include:
- Reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Protecting against Type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity
- Reduce the risk of heart ailments
- Reduce the risk of certain foodborne infectious complications
Turmeric
The main active compound in turmeric is curcumin which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric may help prevent heart complications by regulating blood flow and can even help manage Alzheimer’s and depression. It also aids in improving brain functions by increasing the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF).
Liquorice root
Mulethi or liquorice root helps reduce inflammation and increase the body’s ability to fight against viruses and bacteria. This ayurvedic spice can benefit your health in several ways, including:
- Preventing or managing heartburn
- Preventing bloating
- Reducing nausea and belching
- Decreasing stomach ulcers
- Reducing the symptoms of skin rashes including redness, itching, and swelling
Final thoughts
Ayurvedic approaches are one of the most trusted ways to cure or prevent a wide range of illnesses, from mild to chronic. As Ayurveda has nearly no side effects on your health as against conventional medicines, Ayurvedic herbs and spices are preferred by many to manage various ailments.
The above-mentioned seven ayurvedic foods can benefit your health in several ways by increasing the power of your body’s armour- ‘IMMUNITY’.
