Potent Health Benefits of Six

Traditional Ayurvedic Herbs

Posted by Radha Pukan | Mar 13, 2014 | 13,303 views

The millennia-old medicinal practice of Ayurveda consists of various

powerful branches. A very distinct one is the study and usage of herbs and
plants, which is the basis for most the medicines and treatments in this life
science. The basic idea of Ayurveda is the synergy of the human body with
Mother Nature.
Herbs have profound preventive and curative properties, providing localized
nourishment to targeted physiological systems and processes. Herbs are
used for physical application in case of wounds, bruises, gashes or as oral
medication or in food preparation. It is integrated into the diet depending
on the needs of the ailment. There are over 600 original herbal formulas
and around 250 single plant remedies that play a role in curing diseases,

cleansing the body of impurities and toxins, boosting immunity and vitality
among others.
Basically Ayurveda focuses on harmonizing the mind, body and spirit in
order to provide respite from maladies. Indeed the therapeutic effects of
plants and herbs are limitless. Another advantage is that they have no
harmful side effects on the body unlike drugs composed of chemicals.
Ayurveda remedies are classified on the basis of their cures, for example
pain relievers or anti-infection medication or immunity boosters.
Generally herbs are not considered singularly but as a compound formula
which have synergistic effects on the body. Each herb adds to the others
efficacy and makes the healing powers more potent. There are certain
ancient Ayurveda cores like Triphala, Dashamula, Trikatu and others. Many
new formulae have been developed as well in recent times by Ayurveda
practitioners and herbal laboratories. Herbs are also taken with a special
medium most of the time. This is known as anupana and includes ghee,
milk, aloe gel or honey, which strengthen their properties and direct
through action in the tissues.
From the days of yore there have been certain traditional herbs that stand
out as the most popular. Here is some insight on six important herbs that
every Ayurveda physician considers for health benefits of their patients:

1. Tulsi or holy basil: Known in the scientific community as Ocimum

sanctum, this plant is a sacred Hindu plant, commonly found in temple
gardens and kitchen gardens. Its gorgeous fragrance unlocks the
respiratory tract and enables the spirit to soar. Tulsis main compounds
include eugenol and caryophyllene and it produces antipyretic, antiinflammatory and analgesic actions. It is also found in African countries,
where it is called fever plant as it helps one overcome sickness. Tulsi acts
as an antifungal and antimicrobial agent against a host of pathogens like E
coli and Candida albicans. It clears superfluous dampness in the lungs,
increases lung capacity and reduces problematic breathing. Holy basil also
alleviates stress from generalized anxiety disorder. It can be consumed in
tea and food, as capsules or tonic or even in the raw form.

2. Haldi or turmeric: This glowing yellow rhizome consisting herb

known as Curcuma longa is one of Ayurvedas greatest gifts. With its
amazing healing and restorative properties, it has rich components like
cucuminoids and curcumin which have diverse advantages. This includes

sustenance of brain function, high oxidation activity, cancer and

Alzheimers prevention and regulation of inflammation during malaises like
rheumatoid arthritis. In fact unlike drugs like aspirin the anti-inflammatory
booster doesnt have side effects like gas. Its powder can be used in
cooking and the extract can be consumed after meals.

3. Methi or fenugreek: Scientifically named Trigonella foenumgraecum, it is used as a scented appetizer fenugreek eliminates the
excessive vata dosha or wind humor in the body. It is great for digestion
and is used for soothing irritation in Ayurveda. It has many qualities such
as diminishing phlegm, curing fever and lowering cholesterol levels. It also
has benefits for women such as aiding in lactation as well as uterus
contraction. One of its most effective uses is as protection against alcohol
induced liver damage. It also keeps blood sugar in check thus playing a
credible role in diabetes control.

4. Ashwagandha: The name Ashwagandha literally translates to

strength of a horse. Also known as Withania somnifera, this exotic shrub
has been in medicinal use for thousands of years in classical Ayurveda. It
has four major therapeutic properties. These include medhya promotes
intellect and cognitive growth, balya increases strength and stamina
which aids recovery, rasayana rejuvenation and life extensive properties
and nidrajanana meaning sleep inducer and combats insomnia as a bodybalancing herb. It is superb for stress reduction, neural protection and
preservation of the nervous system. It provides alternative treatment for
diseases like Alzheimers and Parkinsons.

5. Triphala (three fruits): This herbal formula consists of three deseeded myrobalans Amalaki or Emblica officinalis, Bibhitaki or Terminalia
bellirica and Haritaki or Terminalia chebula. The Triphala cocktail produces
rich disease powerful acids like gallic acid, chebulagic acid and chebulinic
acid. It is a great detoxifier and digestion corrector as it by promoting
peristalsis and providing organ specific anti-inflammatory action in the
lower GI tract. It is a good cure for food allergies, bloating, slow nutrient
absorption, tiredness after meals and constipation among others. It is also
used in curing eye diseases and hairfall.

6. Trikatu (three peppers): This is a complimentary formula to

Triphala and consists of a pungent, warming blend of three peppers balck
pepper (Piper nigrum), Indian long pepper (Piper longum) and ginger
(Zingiber offocinale). It enriches the digestive fires (Agni) in the upper GI

tract for assimilation and absorption of digestion. It also destroys the ama
or accumulated toxins and debris that hinder proper digestion. It is also a
potent carminative and anti-flatulent and is effective in dyspepsia. It
greatly improves gastric functions.
Thus, Ayurveda has simple nature based solutions for a wide range of
problems from simple pimples to complicated cancers and tumors. The
goodness in these ancient formulae is so evident that yet again they are
resurfacing as the ultimate cures for illnesses and conditions. The true
beauty of Ayurveda is that it provides a wide counsel on how life works best
and bring forth abundant benefits for users.