Ayurvedic Herbs & Spices: The healing power of nature

Ayurveda is such a vast subject that you can describe everything that is around you as Ayurveda. Nature has so much to give and it is a blessing to mankind. Ayurveda is a form of alternate medicine and uses resources that are present in the nature to help the body heal itself. This holistic approach of healing uses herbs and spices, natural ingredient with ayurvedic benefits, as a powerful tool. They come from plants and are used for seasoning and flavouring the recipes.

There’s no doubt that what we eat gives us a picture of our health. But what if you can choose your spices based on your natural constitution and use it to make your food with health benefits and not just flavourful?

It is said that digestion is a key factor in Ayurveda to prevent several diseases. When Doshas are balanced and digestion is strong then it helps us keeping diseases at bay and stay healthy for long.

Spices have the power to improve your digestion, metabolism, circulation and immunity. They also help in detoxification and improve vitality. Some spices are antimicrobial in nature like Turmeric. They can be used internally and externally both. They help in healing the pain and wounds. Ajwain, Ginger and Hing helps in digestion and prevents from bloating.

Many of the herbs and spices can be found in an ideal Indian kitchen and they are being used on day-to-day basis as home remedies to many small health issues, passed on from generation to generation.

Knowing more about the multitude benefits of herbs and spices and their role in Ayurveda helps us use them better to maintain good health the Ayurvedic way.

Though spices don’t really expire, ground spices lose flavour over time. So, it is advisable to grind them yourself before cooking. Ground spices can last for up to three years if stored properly and whole dry spices for up to four years. Your spice cabinet can turn into medicine cabinet if you use it correctly. It is believed that Ayurvedic herbs are able to go deeper into the tissues and cells when taken with healthy fat such as ghee, butter or raw whole milk.

Many of these spices and herbs can be used in everyday meal and in almost everything we make. Any dish can be made in ayurvedic way. It’s just matter of choosing the right ingredients. Milk, Tea, water, recipes like Khichdi, curries, etc. anything. Let’s take a look at some of the ayurvedic spices in detail, that have proved to be beneficial for health and ensure in keeping your body disease-free.

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb which is quite popular and very much valued by Ayurveda, mainly because it provides numerous benefits for your body and brain. Ashwagandha is a small woody plant found in India and North Africa. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit: ‘Ashva’ meaning horse and ‘Gandha’ meaning smell. It represents both its unique smell and ability to increase strength. It’s classified as an adaptogen as it is believed to have the ability to reduce Stress, created by cortison hormone. It is best for calming Vata and Kapha Dosha. It is not used in recipes but taken as medicine.

• Great anti-ageing herb
• Enhances Vitality by nourishing the tissues and cells as the we age.
• Increases immunity
• Assist in reducing stress, anxiety and depression
• Helps treating several sleep disorders.
• Improves muscular strength to support joint movement
• Aid Healthy weight management
• Reduces blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides levels
• Boosts memory and cognition
• Decreases inflammation
• Helps maintain normal thyroid
• Increase fertility by maintaining testosterone levels in men
• May have anticancer properties

Who shouldn’t use it:

Though anyone can take it, it is highly advisable to first consult with a practitioner before regular intake. However, certain individuals should avoid it, including pregnant and breastfeeding women; people with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes etc. While it may offer some health benefits, Ashwagandha and Triphala has not been entirely studied for every health condition Ayurveda uses it to treat.

• Take ashwagandha powder or extract as a daily tonic for stress management, energy enhancement, and vitality.
• Use ashwagandha in herbal formulations, teas, tonics, and elixirs for adaptogenic support and rejuvenation.
• Incorporate ashwagandha into Ayurvedic remedies for fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, and overall wellness.

Triphala (Sanskrit for three fruits) is an Ayurvedic medicine consisting of the following three small medicinal fruits:

1. 1. Amla (Indian gooseberry): Rich in Vitamin C & amino acids and antioxidants, such as phenols, tannins, and curcuminoids.
   2. Bibhitaki (Bedda nuts or Belleric myrobalan): Contains many antioxidants like ellagic acid, tannins, lignans, and flavones and has anti-inflammatory effects.
   3. Haritaki (Indian hog plum or black myrobalan): Contains vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium.

This combination is said to be more effective than taken separately. Triphala is tridoshic in nature; meaning it supports all the three Doshas. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. It is not used in recipes but taken as medicine.

How to use it:

It is available in powder, juice, extract, capsule, or tablet form. For example, people mix the Triphala powder with water to use it as mouthwash. The Triphala powder is sometimes mixed with coconut or jojoba oil for hair and scalp treatments. For skin usage, they may mix a small amount of powder with a lotion or cream. For internal treatment, please use Triphala as capsules and tablets for treatment of ulcers, arthritis, or constipation, etc.

Just like Ashwagandha, it has encyclopedic range of health benefits and has been used in Ayurveda for more than 1000 years. Though research is still going on to prove some of the benefits, scientists speculate below advantages.

• Very good laxative for cleansing the system
• Relieve stress
• Control diabetes
• Fight fatigue and boosts energy
• Improved metabolism, hence promote weight loss
• Decreases cholesterol and normalize blood pressure
• Preventing cancer
• Alleviate inflammation
• Helps remove oral issues like plaque, sores, fungal infections, cavities etc.
• Helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels with type 2 diabetes.
• Possesses antiaging effects by increasing collagen and elastin and decreasing hyperpigmentation
• Helps in healing stomach ulcers by improving liver functions

Possible side effect of Triphala is diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, when taken in high doses.

Who shouldn’t use it:

Since these dietary supplements are not regulated, it is highly recommended not to use it without prior consultation. Due to the absence of quality research, Ayurvedic herbs should not be given to children, pregnant women, or nursing mothers.

Our next ayurvedic herb with therapeutic benefits is Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). It is a small succulent herb bearing white or purple flowers, mainly found in damp areas and marshes.

The stem, leaves, flowers, every part of the plant is used for medicinal use. It is best used to boost one’s memory. However, it has many powerful properties and are taken differently for different ailments. It balances Vata and Pitta Doshas.

• Strong antioxidant: Improves Immunity and protects the body against cell damage.
• Memory booster: Drinking Brahmi powder with milk helps improve cognition.
• Tea of Brahmi leaves mitigates cold and chest congestion.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Reduces pain and inflammation in the throat and chest.
• Disinfects and heals the skin when applied externally.
• Reduces anxiety and stress by elevating mood and reducing cortisol levels, a stress hormone.
• Nourishes and promotes hair growth when Brahmi paste is applied on the scalp.

• Take brahmi powder or extract as a daily tonic for brain health, memory enhancement, and stress resilience.
• Use brahmi in herbal formulations, teas, tonics, and elixirs for cognitive support and emotional well-being.
• Incorporate brahmi into Ayurvedic remedies for mental fatigue, concentration difficulties, and overall wellness.

Shatavari is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, and it has a variety of health benefits. Shatavari is a general health tonic that can improve vitality. It is also known to have diuretic effects without causing acute side effects, and it may help to maintain blood sugar levels.

Shatavari can promote a healthy reproductive system, soothe the digestive tract, support the respiratory tract, and promote healthy energy levels and strength. Additionally, it can support the immune system.

Shatavari is known as a Rasayana, or rejuvenating herb, and that it may help to reduce free-radical skin damage. It can help to correct hormonal influence, enhance follicular maturity, and increase breast milk in lactating mothers.

Overall, Shatavari has a variety of health benefits and is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine.

• Take shatavari powder or extract as a daily tonic for women’s health, hormonal balance, and vitality.
• Use shatavari in herbal formulations, teas, tonics, and elixirs for reproductive support and emotional well-being.
• Incorporate shatavari into Ayurvedic remedies for menstrual discomfort, menopausal symptoms, and overall wellness.

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Cumin is a popular spice used for thousands of years to add a unique flavor to many cuisines around the world. It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Cumin has many health benefits, including aiding digestion, promoting gut health, and helping to correct irregular menstrual cycles. It can also help to alleviate vata- and kapha-related menstrual issues. Additionally, cumin has a drying effect which can be useful for any spring dampness and excessive wetness in the body, such as mold allergies and congested lung conditions. It can also help to prepare the body for warmer weather ahead, effectively mimicking a hot cedar sauna. Cumin is also known to be helpful in relieving, and it is included under shoola prashamana maha kashaya in the Charaka Samhita. Furthermore, research has revealed additional benefits of cumin, such as promoting weight loss, improving blood sugar control, and improving cholesterol levels.

• Toast whole cumin seeds and use them in spice blends, rice dishes, lentil soups, and roasted vegetables for a fragrant and aromatic flavor.
• Add ground cumin to curries, sauces, marinades, and chili for depth of flavor and digestive support.
• Prepare cumin water by soaking cumin seeds in water overnight and drinking the infused water in the morning for digestive health and detoxification.

Turmeric is an important herb in Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine from India. It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that turmeric can help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve digestion. It is also used to cleanse the channels and chakras, and to give energy of the divine mother and bring prosperity to those who consume it.

Turmeric has a bitter taste, an astringent energetic effect, and its post-digestive effect is pungent and heating. It is used to balance all three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha.

Turmeric is also known to have anti-cancer properties, as it has been found to reduce the growth of cancer cells in some studies. Additionally, it has been found to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, as it has been found to reduce the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain.

Overall, turmeric is an important herb in Ayurveda, with many potential health benefits. It is important to note, however, that turmeric can be harmful if taken in excess, as it can aggravate pitta and vata.

• Add ground turmeric to curries, stews, soups, rice dishes, and smoothies for a golden color and earthy flavor.
• Use fresh turmeric root in juices, dressings, marinades, and herbal remedies for its potent health benefits.
• Take turmeric supplements or extract for targeted support for inflammation, immunity, and overall wellness.

Licorice root has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is thought to help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and even treat certain skin conditions. It is also believed to have antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.

Licorice root is thought to help improve digestion by reducing acid reflux, upset stomach, and heartburn. It is also believed to help with constipation and stomach ulcers. In addition, it is thought to reduce inflammation and treat certain skin conditions, such as eczema and bronchitis.

Licorice root is also believed to have antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. It is thought to help boost the immune system and fight off infections. It is also believed to help reduce stress and improve mood.

It is important to note that while licorice root has many potential health benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it. Consuming too much can lead to potentially severe side effects.

• Brew licorice root tea by steeping dried licorice root slices in hot water for a sweet and soothing beverage.
• Use licorice root extract or powder in herbal formulations, teas, tonics, and elixirs for its therapeutic benefits.
• Incorporate licorice root into Ayurvedic remedies for digestive health, respiratory support, and stress management.

Cardamom, often referred to as the “queen of spices,” is celebrated for its distinct aroma and versatile culinary uses. Beyond its culinary appeal, cardamom is revered in Ayurveda for its digestive benefits and ability to balance Vata and Kapha doshas. This aromatic spice is known to soothe digestive discomfort, freshen breath, and promote detoxification. Cardamom’s warming properties help alleviate Vata imbalances, while its mild nature makes it suitable for Kapha individuals as well.

• Supports digestion and relieves gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Freshens breath and promotes oral health.
• Alleviates respiratory congestion and promotes clear breathing.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Add ground cardamom to coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
• Incorporate whole cardamom pods into rice dishes, curries, stews, and desserts for a subtle yet aromatic flavor.
• Brew cardamom tea by steeping crushed cardamom pods in hot water for a soothing digestive tonic.

Saffron, known as the “golden spice,” is prized not only for its vibrant color and exquisite flavor but also for its myriad health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, saffron possesses anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing properties. It is traditionally used in Ayurveda to improve digestion, alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enhance cognitive function. Saffron’s cooling nature makes it particularly beneficial for pacifying Pitta dosha, making it a valuable addition to any Pitta-balancing regimen.

• Supports digestion and soothes gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Enhances mood and alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Improves cognitive function and memory.
• Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.

• Infuse saffron threads in warm milk with a pinch of turmeric and honey for a soothing bedtime drink.
• Add saffron to rice dishes, soups, stews, and desserts for a burst of flavor and color.
• Brew saffron tea by steeping a few strands in hot water for a refreshing beverage.

Ginger, with its warm and spicy flavor, is renowned as a universal healer in Ayurvedic medicine. This versatile root boasts a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, digestive, and immune-boosting effects. Ginger is commonly used to alleviate nausea, support digestion, and relieve joint pain and inflammation. Its heating qualities make it particularly beneficial for pacifying Vata dosha, while its pungent taste helps balance Kapha dosha.

• Alleviates nausea and supports digestive health.
• Relieves inflammation and eases joint pain.
• Boosts immune function and enhances respiratory health.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Brew ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water for a soothing and invigorating beverage.
• Incorporate grated ginger into stir-fries, soups, curries, and marinades for added flavor and health benefits.
• Enjoy crystallized ginger as a sweet and spicy snack or digestive aid.

Fennel, with its subtle licorice-like flavor, is prized in Ayurveda for its digestive benefits and cooling properties. Rich in essential oils and phytonutrients, fennel seeds are revered for their carminative and anti-spasmodic effects, making them an effective remedy for bloating, indigestion, and gas. Fennel also supports respiratory health, menstrual comfort, and overall vitality. Its cooling nature makes it ideal for pacifying Pitta dosha, while its light and dry qualities balance Kapha dosha.

• Relieves digestive discomfort and supports gastrointestinal health.
• Alleviates bloating, gas, and indigestion.
• Supports respiratory health and eases respiratory congestion.
• Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas.

• Chew fennel seeds after meals to aid digestion and freshen breath.
• Brew fennel tea by steeping fennel seeds in hot water for a soothing digestive tonic.
• Incorporate ground fennel seeds into spice blends, sauces, salads, and baked goods for added flavor and health benefits.

Pepper, known as the “king of spices,” is valued not only for its bold flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. Rich in piperine, pepper possesses digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda, black pepper is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. It stimulates digestion, enhances circulation, and supports respiratory health. Whether used whole, crushed, or ground, pepper adds warmth and depth to dishes while promoting overall wellness.

• Stimulates digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Supports circulation and cardiovascular health.
• Provides antioxidant protection against oxidative stress.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Add freshly ground black pepper to savory dishes, soups, stews, and marinades for a spicy kick.
• Combine black pepper with honey and warm water for a soothing throat remedy.
• Sprinkle ground black pepper over fruits, salads, and desserts for a surprising twist of flavor.

Basil, revered as a sacred herb in Ayurveda, is cherished not only for its culinary uses but also for its therapeutic benefits. Rich in essential oils and antioxidants, basil possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting properties. In Ayurveda, basil is considered beneficial for balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas. It cools and soothes the body, supports digestion, and promotes mental clarity. Whether used fresh or dried, basil adds a fragrant and flavorful touch to dishes while promoting overall vitality.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Provides antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects.
• Promotes mental clarity and enhances focus.
• Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas.

• Add fresh basil leaves to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and pizzas for a burst of flavor.
• Brew basil tea by steeping fresh basil leaves in hot water for a calming and refreshing beverage.
• Make basil pesto by blending fresh basil leaves with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a versatile sauce or condiment.

Cinnamon, with its warm and sweet flavor, is cherished not only for its culinary uses but also for its numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, cinnamon possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and blood sugar-regulating properties. In Ayurveda, cinnamon is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. It supports digestion, enhances circulation, and promotes respiratory health. Whether used in sweet or savory dishes, cinnamon adds a delightful aroma and flavor while promoting overall well-being.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Regulates blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
• Provides antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Sprinkle ground cinnamon over oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, and baked goods for a warm and comforting flavor.
• Add cinnamon sticks to teas, mulled cider, and hot chocolate for a festive and aromatic touch.
• Incorporate cinnamon into savory dishes, such as curries, stews, and tagines, for added depth of flavor.

Mint, with its refreshing flavor and cooling properties, is valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its therapeutic benefits. Rich in menthol and antioxidants, mint possesses digestive, antimicrobial, and mood-enhancing properties. In Ayurveda, mint is considered beneficial for balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas. It soothes digestion, relieves nausea, and promotes mental clarity. Whether used fresh or dried, mint adds a revitalizing touch to dishes and beverages while supporting overall wellness.

• Soothes digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Relieves nausea and supports respiratory health.
• Provides antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects.
• Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas.

• Add fresh mint leaves to salads, smoothies, cocktails, and fruit salads for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Brew mint tea by steeping fresh or dried mint leaves in hot water for a soothing and invigorating beverage.
• Make mint chutney by blending fresh mint leaves with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices for a flavorful accompaniment to Indian dishes.

Coriander, with its citrusy and aromatic flavor, is prized not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, coriander possesses digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. In Ayurveda, coriander is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Pitta doshas. It supports digestion, detoxifies the body, and promotes skin health. Whether used fresh or dried, coriander adds a flavorful and aromatic touch to dishes while enhancing overall well-being.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Detoxifies the body and supports liver health.
• Balances Vata and Pitta doshas.

• Add fresh coriander leaves to salads, soups, stews, and curries for a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
• Use ground coriander in spice blends, marinades, sauces, and rubs for added depth of flavor.
• Brew coriander tea by steeping coriander seeds in hot water for a cleansing and detoxifying beverage.

Clove, with its warm and spicy flavor, is prized not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, clove possesses analgesic, antimicrobial, and digestive properties. In Ayurveda, clove is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. It supports digestion, relieves dental pain, and promotes respiratory health. Whether used whole or ground, clove adds a fragrant and flavorful touch to dishes while supporting overall well-being.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Relieves dental pain and promotes oral health.
• Provides antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Add whole cloves to rice dishes, stews, soups, and mulled beverages for a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Use ground clove in baking recipes, spice blends, and savory dishes for added depth of flavor.
• Brew clove tea by steeping whole cloves in hot water for a soothing and aromatic beverage.

Fenugreek, with its nutty and slightly bitter flavor, is valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. Rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, fenugreek possesses digestive, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-regulating properties. In Ayurveda, fenugreek is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. It supports digestion, enhances lactation, and promotes respiratory health. Whether used as seeds, leaves, or sprouts, fenugreek adds a unique flavor and nutritional benefits to dishes while supporting overall wellness.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Regulates blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
• Enhances lactation and supports postpartum health.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Sprout fenugreek seeds and add them to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies for a nutritious and flavorful boost.
• Use fenugreek leaves in Indian dishes such as curries, dals, and vegetable stir-fries for a distinctive flavor and aroma.
• Incorporate fenugreek seeds into spice blends, pickles, chutneys, and bread for added depth of flavor and health benefits.

Mustard seed, with its bold and pungent flavor, is valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants, minerals, and essential oils, mustard seeds possess digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. In Ayurveda, mustard seeds are considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. They stimulate digestion, support respiratory health, and promote circulation. Whether used whole, ground, or as mustard oil, mustard seeds add depth and flavor to dishes while supporting overall wellness.

• Stimulates digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Supports respiratory health and eases congestion.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Use whole mustard seeds in pickles, marinades, salad dressings, and spice blends for a crunchy texture and pungent flavor.
• Grind mustard seeds into a powder and mix with water or vinegar to make mustard paste for sandwiches, sauces, and condiments.
• Heat mustard oil and use it for cooking, seasoning, or massage for its warming and stimulating properties.

Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is valued for its strong and aromatic flavor, as well as its medicinal properties. Rich in essential oils, minerals, and antioxidants, ajwain possesses digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. In Ayurveda, ajwain is considered beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. It stimulates digestion, relieves flatulence, and supports respiratory health. Whether used whole, crushed, or as ajwain water, ajwain seeds offer a flavorful and therapeutic addition to dishes and remedies.

• Supports digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Relieves flatulence and bloating.
• Balances Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Add whole ajwain seeds to lentil dishes, bread, pastries, and snacks for a distinctive flavor and aroma.
• Crush ajwain seeds and mix with salt to make a digestive after-meal snack.
• Prepare ajwain water by soaking ajwain seeds in water overnight and drinking the infused water in the morning to aid digestion and detoxification.

Incorporating Ayurvedic herbs and spices such as licorice root, turmeric, cumin, shatavari, brahmi, triphala, ashwagandha etc. into your daily routine can unleash the healing power of nature and promote balance, vitality, and well-being. Whether used in culinary creations, herbal remedies, or dietary supplements, these ancient treasures offer a holistic approach to health that honors the wisdom of Ayurveda and the innate healing potential of the natural world. Embrace the gifts of nature and embark on a journey of holistic wellness with these time-honored Ayurvedic herbs and spices, tailored to your unique doshic constitution.