Ayurveda is a natural system of medicine which originated in ancient India. A key component of this tradition is the use of natural herbs. Here, we take a brief look at the Ayurvedic tradition and take a good look at four of the most popular and applicable herbs native to it.
What Is Ayurvedic Medicine?
Ayurveda is the name of a whole-body system of medicine that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. The original goals of Ayurvedic medicine included detoxifying the body, reducing symptoms of illness, preventing disease, reducing stress, and improving overall bodily harmony.
There are a few different pillars of ancient Ayurvedic treatment. These include special dietary standards, massage therapy, meditation, and the use of medicinal herbs and plants. In modern medical practice, Ayurvedic medicine is considered an alternative or complementary form of medicine to large-scale western medicine. Multiple studies have shown that medicinal approaches rooted in Ayurvedic medicine can be effective for a variety of ailments.
4 of the Herbal Supplements Used in Ayurvedic Medicine
Herbal supplements applied with Ayurvedic medicinal approaches in mind can be effective for various symptoms and illnesses. However, these are not a replacement for other medical treatments where necessary. Here, we discuss four excellent herbal supplements, each of which have roots in the Ayurvedic medicinal tradition:
Ashwagandha is a plant with multiple potential medicinal uses. The root and berries of ashwagandha were used in Ayurvedic medicine for various purposes. In modern herbal medicine, ashwagandha has been studied and found useful for enhancing muscle growth, memory, and managing blood-sugar levels. Moreso, ashwagandha can help the body manage stress, and promote relaxation and sleep. Ashwagandha is commonly found in complex supplements combined with other herbs and nutrients.
Boswellia: Extract from the boswellia tree has been studied and found useful for reducing inflammation, by preventing the bodily release of inflammation-causing substances called “leukotrienes.” Human studies of this supplement have shown that boswellia can improve mobility and range of motion, and reduce pain in persons with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Boswellia can be found as a stand-alone supplement, and it can also be included as a component compound in a complex supplement alongside other herbs, including ashwagandha.
Guggul is a gum resin made from the sap of certain plants. Guggul extract can be found in the form of an oral supplement, sometimes combined with nutrients or other herbs. Guggul is known to help regulate bodily cholesterol. Studies show that taking guggul can reduce negative LDL cholesterol levels as well as raise healthy HDL cholesterol levels. In turn, this supplement could help reduce the risk of cardiac events in the long term.
Triphala is a plant-based combination which consists of three separate fruits: amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. It has a couple of primary uses, both of which have been studied in modern science, and go hand-in-hand. Triphala can reduce inflammation, making it useful for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, triphala can help with digestive conditions, as it’s useful as a laxative, as an appetite stimulant, and as an antioxidant. The technical names for these three fruits in triphala are Emblica officinalis, Terminalia bellirica, and Terminalia chebula.
If you are looking for an herbal system of medicine to guide your supplement selections, then these four herbal products original to the Ayurvedic tradition are worth your consideration. It is recommended that you always consult your healthcare provider before taking a supplement for the first time.