Ayurveda is a very old and unique tradition of medicine that originated in ancient India. One of the pillars of this tradition is the use of herbal medicine. Here is a brief look at Ayurveda, the role herbal medicine plays within it, and 5 Ayurvedic herbal supplements with potentially impressive benefits.
What Is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a holistic medicinal tradition that is roughly 3,000 years old, originating within the Hindu religious culture in ancient India. Ayurveda is centered on living in harmony with nature, practicing self-care, and preventing disease. There are different aspects to Ayurveda, including lifestyle practices, mental wellness, oral hygiene, and the use of medicinal herbs.
If you are looking for a naturalistic approach to bolstering your health and well-being, then consider an Ayurvedic approach. The herbal aspect of Ayurveda alone is enough to help prevent disease and improve your quality of life, as these herbs have powerful properties that can improve vitality, digestion, and mental health, as well as detoxify the body, and more.
Five Ayurvedic Herbal Supplements
The herbal supplements listed here each have a place in the Ayurvedic herbal tradition. These are also recognized in the field of modern dietary medicine for their benefits. Whether you are holistically practicing Ayurveda, or you simply want to gain from its natural herbal methods, these five herbal supplements are worth your consideration.
Ashwagandha is a powerful herb which is prominent in Ayurveda. It is touted for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, a benefit which was corroborated by scientific studies years ago. More recent studies attribute other potential benefits to ashwagandha, to include supporting bodily healing, increasing muscle strength in athletes, and improving quality of life in people with hypothyroidism.
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, has proven useful in reducing inflammation. t does so by preventing the body from releasing inflammatory compounds known as leukotrienes. Studies have shown boswellia can contribute to reduced inflammation and improved mobility in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies show it to be as effective as prescription NSAIDs. Boswellia could also improve digestion in those with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Licorice root is used to treat a number of illnesses. Derived from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, licorice root is believed to fight viruses and bacteria and reduce inflammation. It could also promote oral health, as well as reduce heartburn, bloating, and nausea.
Triphala is an Ayurvedic supplement that consists of three different herbs, and has a significant effect on immunity. It is full of beneficial natural substances including vitamin C, flavonoids, and phytochemicals. Triphala can bolster your body's immune system by stimulating antibody production and expelling free radicals and unwanted bacteria that have entered your body. It is widely used to treat chronic fever and gastrointestinal diseases.
Turmeric is a widely touted herb in modern medicine, and its use originates with Ayurveda. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Many benefits have been studied and attributed to turmeric. Turmeric can improve blood flow, which could reduce the risk of heart disease. It can also preserve brain function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, as well as mitigate depression. Turmeric's qualities also make it very useful in combating pathogens that cause infection and illness of various kinds.
These five herbs which hold a special place in the Ayurvedic tradition are not to be underestimated. Significant benefits to your immunity, bodily healing, and reduction of bodily inflammation - and more - can be attained by the use of these herbal supplements. It's recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking one of these herbal supplements for the first time.