Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical system. It seeks to maintain health and wellness by balancing the mind, body, and spirit and preventing disease rather than treating it. It accomplishes this through a holistic approach that combines diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Ayurvedic herbs and spices play an important role in this approach. They are thought to protect your body from disease and to provide a variety of health benefits, such as improved digestion and mental health.
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is a small woody plant native to India and North Africa. Its root and berries are used to make a well-known Ayurvedic remedy.
It’s classified as an adaptogen, which means it’s thought to help your body deal with stress more effectively. According to research, it lowers cortisol levels, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands in response to stress.
There is also evidence that ashwagandha reduces anxiety and improves sleep in people who suffer from stress and anxiety disorders.
Furthermore, studies show that ashwagandha may improve muscle growth, memory, and male fertility, as well as lower blood sugar levels. Larger studies, however, are required to confirm these benefits.
Boswellia
The resin of the Boswellia serrata tree is used to make Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense or olibanum. It is well-known for its distinct spicy, woody aroma. According to research, it may be especially effective at reducing inflammation by preventing the release of inflammatory compounds known as leukotrienes. Boswellia appears to be as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in test tube and animal studies, but with fewer side effects.
Boswellia has been linked in human studies to reduced pain, improved mobility, and a greater range of motion in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It may also aid in the prevention of oral infections and the treatment of gingivitis.
Furthermore, it may help people with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease with their digestion, as well as people with chronic asthma with their breathing.
Triphala
Triphala is an Ayurvedic remedy made up of three small medicinal fruits.
amla (Emblica officinalis, or Indian gooseberry)
bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
haritaki () (Terminalia chebula)
Triphala has been shown in animal and test-tube studies to reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, as well as to prevent or limit the growth of certain types of cancer. It may also act as a natural laxative, alleviating constipation, abdominal pain, and flatulence while increasing the frequency and consistency of bowel movements in people suffering from gut disorders.
Furthermore, a small number of studies suggest that a mouthwash containing triphala may reduce plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and bacteria growth in the mouth.
Brahmi
Brahmi (Bacopa monieri) is a staple herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
According to test-tube and animal studies, brahmi appears to have strong anti-inflammatory properties that are as effective as common NSAIDs
Studies also link it to improvements in learning rates, attention, memory, and information processing, as well as reduced symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as inattention, impulsivity, poor self-control, and restlessness.
Some studies further suggest that brahmi may have adaptogenic properties, which means that it may help improve your body’s ability to deal with stress and anxiety. However, more research is needed before strong conclusions can be made.
Cumin
Cumin is a spice that originated in the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia. It’s made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which have an earthy, nutty, and spicy flavour. According to research, cumin may increase the activity of digestive enzymes and facilitate the release of bile from the liver, thus speeding digestion and easing fat digestion.
This Ayurvedic spice has also been linked to reduced symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain and bloating.
Furthermore, cumin may help prevent type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels and increasing insulin sensitivity. It may also help to prevent heart disease by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and decreasing triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol.