Ayurvedic treatments rely on natural ingredients found throughout the planet. Because of this, they often don’t carry the same risk of side effects that you might expect from medicine.
The following Ayurvedic herbs are a few examples of such ingredients. Read on to learn how you can benefit from them.
Ayurvedic Herbs to Improve Your Health & Enrich Your Spirit
Ashwagandha
It’s important to understand that claims about the benefits many of these herbs offer aren’t merely anecdotal. Studies have often confirmed they can be very effective at improving your health.
Ashwagandha is a prime example. Originating from India, this herb has been used in Ayurvedic treatments throughout history. Modern research has also shown that it can help you manage blood sugar levels, reduce levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”), boost testosterone in men, improve fertility in women, reduce inflammation, and potentially guard against some forms of cancer.
That may be why it’s one of the most common herbs used in Ayurveda.
Guggul
Ayurvedic practitioners have historically spent many years experimenting with different natural ingredients to identify those which offer health-boosting properties. Over time, many found that one such ingredient came in the form of a resin secreted by the Mukul myrrh tree.
The herb of this resin, known as Guggul, can serve a variety of purposes, depending on the nature of the treatment. It may relieve joint pain, reduce acne symptoms, treat intestinal worms, guard against obesity, improve liver function, reduce or guard against high cholesterol, treat sinus infections, and much more.
Cardamom
Cardamom is yet another herb whose health benefits have been substantiated by modern scientific research. Again and again, today’s scientists are confirming what Ayurvedic practitioners have known for years.
According to research, cardamom may reduce blood pressure, guard against certain forms of cancer, reduce inflammation, improve dental health, improve breath, support healthy digestion, treat infections, reduce blood sugar, and potentially help with such mental health conditions as anxiety.
Triphala
As you might have guessed from the name, Tripahala doesn’t actually consist of just one ingredient. It’s an Ayurvedic herbal formula featuring three different plants. In combination, they support your health in several key ways.
These include reducing inflammation, guarding against some cancers, aiding in weight loss, and serving as a natural alternative to laxative products.
Turmeric
Like cardamom, you may recognize turmeric as a spice often used in cooking. You might not have realized that it also plays a key role in a number of Ayurvedic treatments.
Turmeric has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, helping to guard against infection and boost immunity. It’s also been known to reduce the body’s inflammatory response. It may also improve joint health and digestion.
Keep in mind that these are merely a few Ayurvedic herbs worth taking advantage of. As you embrace the Ayurvedic lifestyle, you’ll learn more about other options. While it’s typically a good idea to consult with your physician when using a new herb to treat a medical condition, you’ll find these treatments often deliver remarkable results, without the side effects typically associated with medication.
Reviewed by Dr. Jayant Lokhande, MD (Botanical Drugs), MBA (Biotechnology)
