If you’re considering buying Chyawanprash, you might be wondering, is it safe for everyone? Mostly — but there are a few Chyawanprash contraindications you should know about before you start taking it.
What Is Chyawanprash?
Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic herbal superfood made from a blend of organic, wild-harvested herbs and spices, along with other premium ingredients, such as honey, Ghruta ghee, and jaggery.
As a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, Chyawanprash offers many health benefits, including:
- Boosting general health and immunity
- Rejuvenating the body
- Balancing the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha)
- Supporting longevity and healthy aging
- Enhancing reproductive and sexual health
- Improving digestion and gut health
- Increasing energy levels
- Promotes cognitive, respiratory, and cardiovascular health
Are There Chyawanprash Contraindications?
While Chyawanprash offers an incredible number of health benefits, there are some contraindications to be aware of before you begin taking this ancient superfood jam.
If you have any of the following conditions (or other health concerns), we recommend consulting a medical professional before taking Chyawanprash. Similarly, while Chyawanprash is generally safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, it’s best to speak with your physician ahead of time.
High Blood Pressure or Diabetes
If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, it may not be beneficial to consume Chyawanprash with refined sugar because it might raise your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. However, if you opt for refined sugar-free Chyawanprash made with natural sweeteners (such as honey and jaggery, like PIOR Living's), you may be able to consume 1 tsp per day as directed with doctor approval.
In fact, several studies have examined the effects of Chyawanprash on people with diabetes. Here are some of the findings (in them, Chyawanprash is referred to as “CP”):
“Due to [the] presence of sugar, honey, and cow ghee contents, CP is generally considered to be contraindicated in diabetes or lipid disorders. However, three clinical studies can be retrieved specially studying diabetes and CP.
In one study, CP was found to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia in the oral glucose tolerance test and significantly reduced blood cholesterol levels as compared to the vitamin C control group.
In another clinical study on type-2 diabetics, the consumption of CP resulted in an insignificant change in HbA1c and blood sugar levels, which indicates its safe usage in mild to moderate diabetes controlled by oral hypoglycemic agents.”
Digestive Issues
Additionally, some people with indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, or other stomach problems may find that Chyawanprash’s herbal composition triggers their digestive issues.
Allergies
If you have any known allergies to Chyawanprash ingredients (such as amalaki, ghee, or sesame oil), you should avoid taking it.
How to Take Chyawanprash
For most people, Chyawanprash is safe and effective. If you’re hoping to incorporate it into your daily routine, the best way to take Chyawanprash is by consuming 1-2 teaspoons each morning on an empty stomach.
For the best results, it’s also important to purchase authentic, high-quality Chyawanprash — like PIOR Living’s Chyawanprash — that’s been made in accordance with Ayurvedic tradition.