10 Powerful Ayurvedic Herbs with Health Benefit
Ayurveda is the oldest traditional medicine system in India. In Ayurveda, it is believed that a balance between the soul, mind and body leads to a healthy life and lifestyle.
Here, we recommend some of the most popular ayurvedic herbs list that you should try.
1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows naturally in India and is a plant of the Solanaceae family. This ayurvedic herb has been used as a tonic in Ayurveda. It is also famous in the Ancient Chinese medical system. The usage is clear by its meaning. Ashwa means Horse in Sanskrit, So ashwagandha means horse-like power.
Ashwagandha is used in physical strength-enhancing effect, stress resistance, immunity enhancing effect, and anti-inflammatory effect. It is rich in alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and other minerals such as iron, which all support the body, strengthen and recover fatigue. Moreover, it contains a component called ginsenoside which supports stress relief, insomnia, hyperventilation, and even depression.
Being a powerpack of nutrition, so maybe known as immunity booster ayurvedic herbs. It also contains alkaloids and is said to be particularly effective against arthritis and rheumatism.
How to Use Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha extracts are available in the market, in the form of powder, capsules, tablets and liquid. Tablet and Capsule forms are quite famous in India.
Potential side effects of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is usually considered to have few side effects when used in more than moderate doses. A large dose of ashwagandha causes stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, sometimes also causes liver problems.
Who shouldn't use Ashwagandha
People who are on medication related to diabetes, blood pressure, autoimmune, thyroid and ulcers, should avoid using Ashwagandha or consult a healthcare professional. A pregnant, lactating woman and children should also avoid using it. It is not recommended for them.
2. Boswellia
Boswellia, a strong inflammatory herb from the plant Boswellia serrata. It is also known as Indian Frankincense or olibanum. It is woody in smell and used in sacred places like temples, meditation, etc. It has the function of deepening and slowing breathing and can be expected to have effects such as relaxation effect, prevention of wrinkles, and relief of joint pain symptoms, etc.
Its active ingredient is Boswellia acid which is used to maintain bronchial asthma, allergic reactions and increase breathing capacity. Boswellia suppresses the breakdown of glycosaminoglycans, a component that softens joints and skin and helps to retain water. This means it is effective in joint pain and improvement of joints. From ancient times, it has been used in meditation because it allows you to increase your concentration power. It is also known as ayurvedic herbs for hair.
How to use Boswellia
Unlike other herbs, it is also available in extract form like powder, tablets, capsules, etc. Well, the use of Boswellia varies considerably from product to product.
Potential side effects of Boswellia
In case, when you overdose on Boswellia consumption, you might experience adverse effects like nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain and skin eczema.
Who shouldn't use Boswellia
It is not good for pregnant women. Because it may increase blood flow to the uterus and pelvic. The gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patient should also avoid it.
3. Licorice Root
Licorice root is a herb that has been used for thousands of years. It originates in Europe and Asia. Licorice root belongs to the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, it provides important medication in the ayurvedic field. It is sweet in flavour, so used in many foods, drinks and candy. Despite the sweet taste, it also provides relief in the stomach, reduces stress, anxiety and improves the respiratory system.
Licorice is full of 300 different compounds which have antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial effects. Its anti-inflammatory property may help to reduce inflammation of the skin. So, it supports various skin problems and infections like redness, rashes, itching, swelling, etc. The flavonoids compounds of licorice are helpful to relieve stomach discomfort, nausea, bloating, heartburn, pain, etc. It is also said to be used in sore throat and oral problems.
How to use Licorice root
In the market, licorice root is available in many forms like dried and powdered form as well as in capsules, tablets, and liquid extract. It is easily available in any supplement shop either online or offline. You can also prepare licorice tea with its extract for healthy well being.
Potential side effects of Licorice root
In spite of its benefits, it also has side effects like other herbs. If you consume licorice root in a large amount, it may lead to many adverse effects. You should always follow the recommended dose only. The adverse effects may be muscle weakness, nausea, swelling, irregular metabolism, irregular heartbeat, constipation or diarrhoea, etc.
Who shouldn't use Licorice root
People who already have high blood pressure should avoid using it. It is also not for the one who has a low potassium level in the body. Moreover, be careful or recommend to the healthcare professional if you have kidney disease and heart problems. A pregnant and breastfeeding woman should also avoid using it without doctor recommendations.
4. Brahmi
Brahmi, Bacopa monnieri is a staple herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It is also called a magical plant in India, it is named after the creator god Brahman. This is a herb used for enhancing memory, cognition and learning ability. Basically, it enhances the purpose of concentrating consciousness and activating the cranial nerves. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties that work as a brain tonic. Moreover, it is a remedy that maintains health by considering the harmony and balance of mind and body. One study says that Brahmi may have adaptogenic properties, which stabilize the mind and provide the ability to deal with stress and anxiety.
How to use Brahmi
The powder and supplement form is available in the market for the Brahmi easy consumptions. Moreover, many other brain-boosting supplements also contain Brahmi. You can get a pure Brahmi extract or prepared with any other herb.
Potential side effects of Brahmi
The overdose of Brahmi may show potential side effects to the body, which include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, dry mouth, fatigue & nausea.
Who shouldn't use Brahmi
The Brahmi is not good for pregnant and breastfeeding women. One who is on thyroid medication should avoid it.
5. Gotu kola
Gotu kola is a herb used in many ancient medical practices for general health and an adjunct to anti-ageing. The "herb of longevity" is another name for it. Gotu Kola has been claimed in several studies to improve brain function, be effective in mental care like alleviate depression, be good for skin diseases, and promote liver and kidney health, etc. Leaves of the Gotu kola plant are used for medical purposes and contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other drug-like compounds. It has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties with plenty of B vitamins, amino acids for protein building, and important minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Gotu kola was beneficial in improving cognition, while Gotu kola was more effective in improving areas of memory. Moreover, it may help stop the formation of blood clots in people who have heart problems. It may also help people with certain types of anaemia due to low levels of B vitamins.
How to use Gotu kola
Supplement(Capsules, Tablet) and Powder is quite famous for Gotu Kola in the market. It is suggested to choose a well known ayurvedic doctor or supplier for the Gotu Kola intake.
Potential side effects of Gotu kola
Gotu kola may cause headaches, upset stomach, and dizziness, sensitivity to sunlight, itching in some cases, mostly when intake gets an overdose. It is said that to avoid adverse effects, start with a low dose and gradually go to the proper dose. Make sure not to overdose after the proper suggested dose.
Who shouldn't use Gotu kola
Some people may need to be careful while using Gotu kola supplement or any extract, such as if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if they have hepatitis or other liver diseases, so be careful before taking it.
6. Shatavari
Shatavari,Asparagus racemosus is one of the best adaptogenic herbs traditionally from India. It has been used for many years for vitality and plays an important role in Ayurvedic medicine due to its efficacy. It is also famous for better reproductive systems in men and women.
Shatavari is a rich source of saponin, an antioxidant compound with anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces oxidative stress and prevents the body from free radicals. Moreover, it is expected that Shatavri will improve the immune system and response.
Shatavari may be able to balance the hormones in the body. It improves the female reproductive system, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fertility, depression, irregular menstruation cycle and is effective in menopause too. Shatavari is also expected to have the effect of suppressing the breakdown of collagen, which is the source of firmness in the skin.
How to use Shatavari
Shatavari is available in online and offline stores in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and more. You can consume Shatavari after a meal during the day or night.
Potential side effects of Shatavari
It is good to use Shatavari or its extract daily but it should be limited. An overdose of Shatavari shows potential side effects like many other herbs, including rash, fast heart rate, itching dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing, etc.
Who shouldn't use Shatavari
It may be safer to avoid using supplements containing Shatavari if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Well, there is no study, but it is still good to avoid. If you are allergic to asparagus, then it is not for you. Having asthma and blood-sugar-lowering patients should also avoid Shatavari supplement till it is recommended by doctors.
7. Cardamom
Cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum has been used for a long time as a medicine with many effects. Cardamom is also known as the "queen of spices." It is a major spice in India and the Middle East. Being a Fragrant Spice, it has a very good scent. So it is used in many dishes to eliminate the smell of major ingredients.
Cardamon is a rich source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, etc minerals. It supports the cell and body fluids that shows effective improvement in lower blood pressure, breathing, digestion, and weight loss. In case of indigestion, it promotes the secretion of gastric juice, saliva and helps digestion. In addition to the digestive system, cardamom is also expected to have the effect of improving respiratory disorders.
Moreover, it improves blood circulation and supports a warm body.
How to use Cardamom
Cardamon is very easy to eat raw. Preparing tea with cardamom is also a good idea. There is no need to go with its extract. You can get cardamom and mix it with your beverage or food. Having it for breakfast is good.
Potential side effects of Cardamom
There is no report for dose limit for cardamom adverse effects. Well, some of the noted adverse effects are liver problems, loss of hunger, nausea and vomiting.
Who shouldn't use Cardamom
Patients who have gallbladder stones show avoid using cardamom in their diet even in small quantities.
8. Ginseng
Ginseng is an Araliaceae perennial plant. Ginseng has long been known as a "highly effective drug" and is taken to relieve fatigue, lose appetite, poor circulation, and improve poor circulation. Ginseng's roots are highly beneficial as compared to the flower and fruit. The saponin component "ginsenoside" is abundant in ginseng. Ginsenosides improve the quality of life by boosting stamina and desire. There are three types of ginseng based on their harvesting period. The older the ginseng, the better the ginseng. Ginseng controls mental and physical health. It may help in cognitive function and improve memory performance.
How to use Ginseng
Ginsey capsules, tablets, Ginseng powder, etc are sold in the market. You can have supplements as per direction. It is okay to have a 400 mg ginseng capsule in a day. The important thing, make sure not to use more than 3 months.
Potential side effects of Ginseng
Ginseng side effects are very rare till it is consumed in the limit. Moreover, adverse effects are very mild and cause dizziness, headache, insomnia, stomach upset and many other symptoms.
Who shouldn't use Ginseng
People who are addicted to tea, coffee or alcohol should avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid using ginseng.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric, oldest herb for medicinal purposes. It is a plant of the genus Turmeric of the family Zingiberaceae native to East India. It has been widely used as a colouring agent and spice. Curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric. Curcumin benefits the body in many ways. It promotes the secretion of saliva, gastric juice and protects the gastric mucosa. In Chinese herbal medicine, it is also used for gastritis and gastric acid. Turmeric is also known for the function of accelerating the decomposition rate of acetaldehyde, which causes a hangover and helps recover liver functions. The antibacterial, antivirals help to increase the immunity system. Curcumin has an insect repellent effect too. In ancient times or your grandparent must use turmeric with milk for better health, pain relief and wound healing. Yes, turmeric has this property. It also supports healthy blood circulation and heart health.
How to use Turmeric
Prepare a turmeric dish with raw turmeric roots. You can use turmeric powder in milk or any other liquid. Moreover, in the market, you will find supplements as well. You can have a supplement with water as a professional guide.
Potential side effects of Turmeric
The overdose of turmeric sometimes causes side effects in the body. If you experience constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, yellow stool, stomach pain, etc then recommend to a professional immediately.
Who shouldn't use Turmeric
It is not good to overdose on it for a longer period of time. If you are on iron medication, then do not use turmeric or consult a healthcare professional. Excess iron can cause liver damage.
10. Basil
Tulsi, Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is a sacred and oldest plant of the Indian house. Leaves of holy basil are used for medical purposes from eye to heart diseases. It is native to Southeast Asia. The charm of basil is not limited to Ayurveda. It is also used in Chinese medicine. The leaves used as herbs are also nutritious and are popular for cooking and herbal tea. It is rich in nutrients called phytochemicals. Phytochemicals, also known as "phytonutrients," are vitamins, polyphenols, and other ingredients that humans cannot produce in the body. So, it is helpful to reduce the oxidation in the body and prevent the body from free radicals. Improvements in the immune system, better mood, healthy blood flow, reduced pain, etc are benefits achieved by tulsi use. Tulsi leaves have a calming green colour, and the strong scent component that comes out when the leaves are crushed has the effect of healing and relaxing the tiredness of the mind and body.
How to use Basil
Chewing some leaves in the morning is beneficial. You can add leaves or drops of Tulsi in Tea, Milk or Water. Tulsi capsules, tulsi powder, tulsi drops, panch tulsi drops, etc are available in the market that is easy to use. You can have it twice a day or as per the indication written on the product label.
Potential side effects of Basil
Well, using a tulsi does not have any side effects. But overdosing definitely causes adverse effects to the body like nausea, diarrhoea, fast heartbeat, etc.
Who shouldn't use Basil
It is not recommended to the woman who is pregnant or trying to get pregnant. It affects reproductive health. A lower blood sugar patient should also talk to a professional doctor first.