Top 15 Ayurvedic herbs and spices that are packed with health benefits
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing practice, promotes well-being anti-cancer, and healing using natural ingredients. Ayurvedic Herbs and spices have traditionally been used to treat various diseases, including the common cold, cough, respiratory problems, and stress.
In addition, Ayurvedic herbs and spices play a crucial role. According to Ayurveda, spices and herbs are considered to be the otherworldly embodiments of plants, conveying in their cells the wisdom of infinite knowledge and the powerful vibrations of nature.
Ayurveda focuses on maintaining health and wellness by maintaining a balance between mind, body, and spirit and preventing disease rather than treating it. A holistic approach combining diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes is required to achieve this.
Ayurvedic herbs and spices play a crucial role in this integrative method. They’re intended to safeguard your body from disease and provide a wide variety of health benefits. In addition to these healthy herbs and spices, you should also integrate other Ayurvedic approaches, such as modifying one’s diet and lifestyle choices. All of these daily patterns contribute to wellbeing and health throughout one’s life.
Herbs in Ayurveda and their role
Here are 15 Ayurvedic herbs and spices with science-backed health benefits.
1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an annual evergreen shrub in the Solanaceae, or nightshade family called Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, or winter cherry.
In the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine, Ashwagandha) is revered as a Rasayana (tonic). Several studies have shown that Ashwagandha reduces insulin resistance, which results in more glucose being utilized by cells.
Studies suggest ashwagandha promotes muscle growth, memory, and male fertility, along with lowering blood sugar levels. Further research is needed to confirm these claims.
Ashwagandha, considered an adaptogenic herb, helps maintain a healthy response to physical, mental, and environmental stressors.
Benefits
- Reduce blood sugar levels
- Have anti-cancer properties
- Decrease cortisol levels
- Improve symptoms of depression
- Help to improve testosterone and increase fertility in men
- Minimize inflammation
2. Turmeric
Curcuma longa is a perennial plant in the ginger family that produces turmeric from its roots. One of its key ingredients is curcumin.
This herb has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. According to case studies, it may be as effective as or even more effective than some anti-inflammatory drugs – and without the side effects of many prescribed drugs. Let’s explore some health benefits of curcumin and turmeric.
Benefits
- Reduce blood sugar levels
- Have anti-cancer properties
- Decrease cortisol levels
- Improve symptoms of depression
- Help to improve testosterone and increase fertility in men
- Minimize inflammation
3. Coriander
Coriander and cilantro are two different names for the same plant. Coriander ( Coriandrum sativum L. ) belongs to the Apiaceae plant family and is a widely used aromatic herb worldwide. Leaves, stems, and seeds have a strong, recognizable aroma and are used raw or dried in cooking.
The herb coriander is native to southern and northwestern Europe, as well as northern Africa and southwest Asia. The young, delicate leaves are often used in Latin American, Indian, and Chinese food.
Benefits
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Promote healthy digestion
- Improve liver function
- Boost the immune system
- Protect against eye diseases
- Increase antioxidants in the body
- Treat mouth ulcers (due to its antiseptic properties)
4. Guduchi
Tinospora cordifolia commonly known as Guduchi (Giloy) plant is one of the three Amrit plants in Ayurvedic medicine. Amrit means nectar of the gods, and this climbing plant’s qualities prompted it to be named “Amritavalli” in Sanskrit.
Guduchi powder is made from the plant’s stem, which has high nutritional value, but the roots, bark, leaves, and fruits can also be used.
Benefits
- Improve liver function
- Boost the immune system
- Improve digestion
- Relieve stress
- Help to control high fever
5. Brahmi
Tinospora cordifolia commonly known as Guduchi (Giloy) plant is one of the three Amrit plants in Ayurvedic medicine. Amrit means nectar of the gods, and this climbing plant’s qualities prompted it to be named “Amritavalli” in Sanskrit.
Guduchi powder is made from the plant’s stem, which has high nutritional value, but the roots, bark, leaves, and fruits can also be used.
Benefits
- Reduce anxiety
- Sharpen memory power
- Prevent asthma attacks
- Balance blood sugar levels
- Prevent cancer
6. Tulsi
Ocimum tenuiflorum commonly known as tulsi is known for its medicinal properties and spiritual properties. It is known by names such as “Mother Medicine of Nature” and “The Queen of Herbs” in Ayurveda. It’s also commonly referred to as holy basil.
Tulsi is a truly impressive herb that can help with various health issues. It’s been used for centuries because nature has endowed it with tremendous healing powers. Here are six benefits of tulsi leaves that you can utilize to lead a healthier life.
Benefits
- Boost immunity
- Prevent infection
- Improve metabolism and weight management
- Improve memory and brain health
- Reduce fevers
- Treat acne and other skin conditions
- Reduce colds and flu
7. Shatavari
Asparagus racemosus, also called Shatavari, is a species of asparagus plant that has been used for centuries in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. People use Shatavari supplements to treat a variety of symptoms. It is available as a tablet, powder, or liquid essence for oral consumption. Shatavari has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits
- Aid in the treatment of kidney stones
- Help to get rid of cough
- Improve immunity power
- Help to treat ulcers
- Help to treat diarrhea
8. Moringa
Moringa oleifera is a Moringaceae plant with a name derived from the Indian Tamil term Murungai, which means Drumstick tree. In India, moringa fruit/drumsticks are a popular delicacy. It’s frequently used in South Indian cuisine to prepare a variety of lentil curries.
The Moringa plant contains various substances, including ziaten, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeine, and kaempferol. M. oleifera is particularly essential for its therapeutic benefit, in addition to its strong water purification powers and high nutritional content.
Benefits
- Aid in the relief of symptoms like joint pain, persistent fatigue, and cramping
- Lower blood pressure
- Treat cuts and wounds
- Protect and nourish skin and hair
- Aid in the improvement of eye health
9. Boswellia
Boswellia serrata, known as Indian frankincense or olibanum, is made from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree. When it is burned, the fragrance is immediately recognizable.
According to human research, Boswellia has been linked to reduced pain, increased mobility, and a more extensive range of motion in persons with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to treating gingivitis, it may also help prevent it.
Benefits
- Alleviate joint pain
- Improve oral health
- Improve digestion
- Improve respiratory capacity in asthmatic patients
10. Guggulu
The sap (gum resin) of the Commiphora Mukul tree, also known as the blossoming Mukul myrrh tree (Commiphora Mukul), is used to make guggul (Commiphora wightii). For ages, this tree has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine, and documents dating back to 600 BC advocate it to treat atherosclerosis.
Guggul is used for acne, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), weight loss, and other conditions, but none of these uses have good science behind them.
Benefits
- Reduce cholesterol and triglycerides
- Aid detoxification and rejuvenation
- Support the immunological system
- Aids in the development of youthful, healthy skin
- Helps maintain a regular menstrual cycle
11. Triphala
Triphala is an Ayurvedic treatment made of the three tiny medicinal fruits listed below.
- Amla (Emblica officinalis, or Indian gooseberry)
- Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
According to research, Triphala is high in anti-inflammatory compounds that may help prevent cancer and other chronic diseases.
Benefits
- Control diabetes
- Reduce inflammation in joints
- Relieve constipation
- Reduce abdominal pain and discomfort as well as flatulence
12. Cumin
Cuminum cyminum is also known as Cumin is a spice with a long history. It is a Mediterranean and Southwest Asian spice that is manufactured from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which have a unique earthy, nutty, and spicy flavor. Cumin has been shown to increase the activity of digestive enzymes, and accelerate bile flow from the liver, leading to faster digestion and easier fat digestion.
In studies, it has also been shown to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain and bloating.
Benefits
- Help with IBS and other gastric disorders by improving digestion
- Improve triglycerides and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol).
- Support fat burning and weight loss
13. Bitter melon
Bitter melon, also known as Momordica charantia, is a tropical plant that looks like zucchini, squash, cucumber, or pumpkin. It’s a staple in Asian cuisine, and it’s loaded with minerals and antioxidants.
According to research, bitter melon may help lower blood sugar levels and stimulate the release of insulin, the hormone responsible for maintaining steady blood sugar levels.
Benefits
- Lower cholesterol levels
- Lower blood sugar
- Help prevent cancer
- Support weight loss
14. Cardamom
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), a spice sometimes called the “queen of spices,” has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.
According to research, cardamom powder may help lower blood pressure in those with high blood pressure. Inhaling cardamom essential oil has also been shown to improve the oxygen intake in the lungs during exercise.
Benefits
- Contain cancer-fighting compounds
- Treat bad breath and prevent cavities
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Improve breathing and oxygen use
Dosage and Preparation of Ayurvedic Herbs
There are no universal standards for using Ayurvedic herbs correctly. People are frequently advised on how to take them by Ayurvedic practitioners, herbalists, and naturopaths.
Even so, guidance from one practitioner to the next may differ. Furthermore, because Ayurvedic practitioners customarily pass down their knowledge from generation to generation, suggestions may vary by area.
Ayurvedic herbs come in multiple ways of preparation, including:
- Teas
- Tonics
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Oral tinctures
- Ointments
- Salves
Ayurvedic herbs can be purchased online, from an Ayurvedic practitioner, or from a specialty health food store. Make sure you don’t take more than the recommended dose of the herb.
Precautions (Side Effects) for Ayurvedic Herbs & Supplements
Ayurvedic herbs and spices are generally regarded as safe when consumed in amounts commonly used to prepare or flavor foods. However, most studies supporting their benefits often used supplement doses far exceeding normal consumption.
As a general precaution, children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, persons with known medical issues, and those taking medication may not be able to take such a substantial amount of Ayurvedic supplements. Hence, before adding any Ayurvedic supplements to your routine, you should discuss them with your healthcare practitioner.
Ayurvedic Herbs in a Nutshell
Traditionally, herbal medicine has been considered an alternative/complementary therapy. Today, the entire globe looks at nature and holistic systems like Ayurveda with enlightened eyes.
All over the world, there are many herbs used in traditional medicine. Their efficacy cannot be summed up in one short sentence. Herbal remedies have a wide range of scientific evidence. The information on some ingredients may be extensive, while for other traditionally significant herbs there may be no scientific information at all. You should also discuss their use with your healthcare practitioner, especially if you’re taking any prescription medications.