The 4 Most Popular Ayurvedic Herbs and Their Uses
One of the world's oldest holistic healing systems comes from India. Known as Ayurvedic medicine or Ayurveda, the traditional medicinal system was developed more than 3,000 years ago[1] and relied heavily on herbs. With the effectiveness of Ayurvedic medicine getting known worldwide, there has been a huge increase in interest in Ayurveda during the past few years. To help you take advantage of this ancient natural system of medicine, here we are listing some of the most popular herbs in India, known for their incredible health benefits:
1. Holy Basil
Often referred to as the queen of medicinal plants and the elixir of life, Holy Basil holds immense importance in India. The plant has huge religious significance and is widely used for its medicinal properties, including relieving cough, common cold, fever, indigestion, and stress. Holy Basil or Tulsi also appears on NASA's list of air-purifying plants.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is the herb with probably the widest and most diverse applications. This plant's versatility can be determined by the fact that it is used in medicines and cooking to beauty products. Packed with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, aloe gel is used to help regulate blood sugar levels, improve oral health, and relieve GI tract issues like digestive distress, bowel irritation, constipation, and ulcers. Aloe Vera gel also has soothing and hydrating properties and is useful for healing minor burns and improving skin health.
3. Ginger
Ginger is a staple in Indian kitchens. The plant root is commonly used in Indian food due to its distinct flavor and is also widely used to relieve many health problems naturally. Ginger tea is a panacea for nausea, indigestion, cold, cough, sore throat, and flu. It also helps with headaches and provides relief from menstrual cramps.
Gingerol, the main bioactive compound in ginger, is also scientifically proven to have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research also shows that ginger may also have powerful anti-diabetic properties.
4. Ashwagandha
The use of Ashwagandha in India can date back to the very beginning of Ayurvedic medicine. Known to promote natural healing, the herb is commonly used in a wide range of applications in traditional medicine.
One of the most prevalent uses of Ashwagandha is to relieve stress. The herb has powerful adaptogenic properties and helps improve the body's ability to deal with various stressors. Research shows that it does so by reducing the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body.[2]The herb can also help improve sleep, lower blood sugar levels, boost memory, and enhance muscle growth. It is also considered a valuable herb for improving male fertility.
The root and fruit of Ashwagandha are the essential parts.
The Final Word
Ayurvedic herbs have thousands of years' long history of use to back up the claims made by people and herbal experts. The benefits of several herbs have also been confirmed by science. The herbs discussed above are some of the Ayurvedic herbs with both scientific and anecdotal evidence to prove their effectiveness and various health benefits. Incorporate them into your life to boost health and get natural relief from a range of problems.
[1]https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ayurveda
[2]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439798/ , https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19789214/