Ayurvedic medicine is a holistic science that helps people develop strong immunity, vigor and vitality, longevity, and more. One of the ways that it does this is by leveraging powerful, immune-boosting herbs when needed. The following is a list of some of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs for immunity.
1. Ginger
Ginger contains gingerol, which has powerful medicinal properties. It helps with healthy digestion, boosting metabolism, easing the common cold, cough, and respiratory imbalances, reducing pain, and decreasing inflammation.
2. Black Pepper
Black pepper is a very common and versatile spice. It helps with digestion, is high in antioxidants, and is used to pacify excess kapha in the body. It cuts through stagnancy in the mind and body, relieves ama, and can help relight the digestive fire.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most studied plants on the earth – and for good reason. It contains curcumin and is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant. It should be used with black pepper, coconut oil, and ginger for proper digestion and absorption. You can use it in the form of tea or in soups and kitchari.
4. Holy Basil or Tulsi
Holy Basil is known as “natural mother herb” in Ayurveda. It is a sacred plant in Indian tradition. It is from the basil family and has many health benefits. It is antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and relieves cough. Tulsi can also help to encourage emotional health. A balanced state of emotion makes one less prone to disease.
5. Guduchi
Guduchi (or giloy) is revered in Ayurveda for its many health-boosting functions. Giloy is used to help with diabetes, stomach conditions, liver health, joints, and fever. It's a natural blood purifier and promotes overall well-being and strong immunity. It's even known to help ward off diseases as serious as cancer, AIDS, and autoimmune disorders.
6. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an incredibly powerful immune-boosting adaptogen. Ashwagandha translates to “smell of a horse” and refers to the horse-like strength that the herb induces. Ashwagandha has gained a lot of power in recent years due to its wide range of benefits. It aids in stress management and helps balance the hormonal system, allowing people to function optimally and making them more resilient to disease.
7. Neem
Neem is a highly powerful herb that can help fight bacterial infections. Its powerful antimicrobial nature means that you should consume it in relatively small doses and avoid consuming concentrated neem oil. While it's an effective topical solution, it's considered too potent for oral consumption.
8. Amla
Amla, or Amalaki, is a powerful fruit that Ayurveda regards as one of the best herbs for boosting immunity. It's one of the main ingredients of both Chyawanprash and Triphala, two Ayurvedic supplements that are widely known for their ability to boost immunity.
9. Gota Kola
Gotu kola is a herb with a very diverse range of benefits. It can be useful for promoting nearly every aspect of our health. Gotu kola is one of the most powerful immune boosters and can be consumed in the form of tea or capsules.
10. Chyawanprash
Chyawanprash isn't an herb, so to speak; it's a medicinal formula and nectar-like ambrosia-jam supplement that combines various herbs and spices, including all of the herbs mentioned above. Chyawanprash is one of the most powerful immune-boosting remedies in Ayurveda, helping build strength, vigor, vitality, and overall health. It’s suitable for people of all ages and can be taken daily.
Interested in learning more about how Ayurveda can boost your immunity? Explore our Ayurveda Immunity Guide or discover how you can practice yoga for immunity.