The use of Ayurvedic herbs has been propagated by Ayurvedic practitioners for hundreds of years, as they are known to cleanse and remove many toxins from the body. While there are plenty of Ayurvedic herbs available with added benefits, some are more easily accessible. Here are 5 Ayurvedic herbs that you can easily find in your kitchen or local grocer, to include in your daily diet.
NEEM
Neem is known to be a powerful Ayurvedic herb that possesses many health benefits; it has been used for centuries as a therapeutic, healing herb. Despite the bitter taste, neem helps balance pitta and kapha due to its cold and dry qualities.
Benefits: Neem has supreme detoxification abilities, which makes it a great immunity booster. Additionally, it stabilises and regulates blood sugar levels and creates a healthy digestive environment in the abdomen by reducing toxins and heat. It also encourages weight loss, stops water retention, supports the respiratory system, and enables proper breathing. Neem is also known to aid in hair growth and clear skin.
How to use: Chewing neem leaves on an empty stomach is a common practice; it can also be consumed in the form of tea or juice. You can also soak it in water and drink it in the morning. Additionally, there are many organic neem hair, skin, and tooth products to use.
TULSI
One of the oldest herbs known to us, it is called the “holy basil” and is renowned in the world for its healing properties. Often used for medicinal and religious purposes.
Benefits: Tulsi is a natural remedy for any flu; its consumption can greatly reduce the effects of cold, cough, fever, and soothes the throat. It is considered to be a natural immunity booster and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Read more about Tulsi and its benefits here.
How to use: Tulsi can be used in a multitude of ways— as a juice, with black pepper powder to cure fever, or consumed boiled with water, honey, and milk. Additionally, crushed tulsi leaves with honey is a natural remedy for the throat. Tulsi can also be consumed with hot water as tea, or infused in ghee.
TRIPHALA
Triphala is an Ayurvedic remedy mixture that consists of three medicinal fruits— Amla, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Each fruit is known to positively impact all three doshas.
Benefits: Triphala has existed for thousands of years as an Ayurvedic medicine. It is known to promote ideal gut health and help in the digestion process. Considered to be an antioxidant, it strengthens the immune system, detoxifies the body, and promotes a range of health benefits. It is recommended by many Ayurvedic practitioners due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
How to consume: Triphala can usually be found in powder form, which can be mixed with warm water and consumed like tea. Triphala supplements are also available and can be used if prescribed; it can also be blended with lemon or a natural sweetener to reduce the bitter taste.
ASHWAGANDHA
Ashwagandha is a small plant that is found in India and North Africa. The roots and berries of the fruit are extensively used in Ayurvedic remedies.
Benefits: Known to improve brain function, regulate blood sugar levels, and help fight mental health conditions such as stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. An effective dosage of Ashwagandha can also increase strength and muscle mass in men. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, can lower cholesterol, and boosts memory.
How to use: Mix Ashwagandha powder with honey or maple syrup and milk or mix with hot milk before bedtime. You can also use Ashwagandha products for hair and skin.
Dharana Wellness Centre, a wellness retreat near Mumbai, focuses on holistic health which includes physical, mental, and spiritual balance. One of the key ideologies of this eco wellness retreat lies in the holistic approach. As an Ayurvedic healing center in India, Dharana combines the use of an integrative, modern approach for holistic health with Modern Diagnostics and traditional practices like Yoga and Ayurveda to ensure a sustainable wellness journey.
