Ayurveda is going big all over the world and there’s a reason for that. It is one of the oldest alternative medicines that has been practiced in India for the last 5,000 years. Its principals were even mentioned in the ancient Hindu epic Mahabharata, which was written around 4th century BC. Ayurveda uses a number of herbs, roots, and spices modern science is only starting to explore, but this doesn’t mean you can’t reap the benefits of these natural medicines right now. Here are 10 Ayurvedic remedies you need to know about – and use!
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of those incredible plants that have numerous benefits. Ayurveda describes it as a potent remedy to improve cognitive functions, treat insomnia, prolong life expectancy, and increase strength and overall health of the body. Lately it’s been extensively used to treat anxiety disorders, adrenal dysfunction, and depression as it increases levels of testosterone and lowers the levels of cortisol – hormone that causes stress.
Tulsi
Also known as Holy Basil, Tulsi is a plant that is considered sacred in India. It has incredible antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties and can be used to relieve laboured breathing. Trials have also shown that it reduces stress levels in people with anxiety disorders. Tea prepared with oil-rich tulsi also tastes great!
Bitter Melon
Bitter melon is an ideal remedy for those who are suffering from high glucose levels. Not only does this edible gourd increase glucose tolerance, but it also helps the human body produce natural insulin due to the polypeptide-P compound, which is very similar in structure to animal insulin. Bitter melon has such powerful medicinal properties that it’s been turned into potent treatment for people with diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Curcumin
Curcumin is one of the true treasures of Ayurveda. Its anti-inflammatory properties have become world-known in the recent years, making it one of the best medicines to relieve arthritis pain, help with indigestion, and PMS pains. It is also a very powerful antioxidant and a natural antibiotic, which can be used to treat a number of diseases and even improve skin condition. Don’t hesitate to use it in your beauty routine as well!
Amla
This little green fruit is chockfull of Vitamin C, which makes it an ideal remedy for colds, cough, respiratory tract infections, and bronchitis. It is also used to boost the immune system and is known to help with anaemia. Amla juice is a great preventative remedy that will rejuvenate and strengthen your body against viral infections.
Shatavari
Shatavari is a truly magical remedy every woman should have in her medicinal arsenal. This special female tonic is used to balance hormone, enhance fertility, and strengthen the female reproductive system in general. It also reduces the symptoms of menopause and can be used in the beginning and during the menopause.
Triphala
Triphala is not one remedy, but a three-in-one concoction. Triphala churna is a mix of three different plants (amla, bahera, and haritaki) combined together in special proportions, which form a powerful medicine that has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is used to treat a variety of GI problems like chronic constipation, bloating, food sensitivities, and indigestion. It also purifies the blood and stimulates food absorption.
Cumin
Cumin is a superfood when it comes to improving digestion and body’s metabolism. It also improves the absorption of vitamins and minerals our body gets from different foods. If your body’s absorption is low then no matter how many nutritious and healthy foods you eat they won’t be digested properly!
Neem
Neem’s wonders are countless as the whole tree is used to create different medicines – trunk, leaves, and flowers. Neem is a great remedy for all kinds of skin disorders and is often included in skincare products. It’s also used to cure upset stomach, intestinal parasites, diabetes, eye diseases, and urinary tract disorders. Neem significantly lowers blood sugar, that’s why it should be taken with food only to avoid an extreme blood sugar drop.
Trikatu
Another powerful Ayurvedic mix is Trikatu (“three peppers”) which consists of Ginger, Black Pepper, and Indian Long Pepper. If Triphala mainly focuses on lower GI tract, Trikatu is used to improve the “digestive fire” of the upper GI tract. Trikatu is a remedy for digestive dysfunctions responsible for food cravings and unhealthy food loops caused by poor food choices. It improves the production of digestive enzymes and overall health of the digestive system.
