Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical system. It attempts to maintain health and wellness by balancing the mind, body, and spirit and preventing rather than curing disease.
It does so by combining nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes in a holistic way.
Ayurvedic herbs and spices play a key role in this method. They’re supposed to protect your body from disease and provide a multitude of health benefits, such as enhanced digestion and emotional well-being.
Ashwagandha
The tiny woody herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is native to India and North Africa. Its root and berries are used to make an Ayurvedic medicine that is highly popular (2Trusted Source).
It’s classified as an adaptogen, which means it’s thought to assist your body better manage stress. It has been found in studies to lower cortisol levels, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands in response to stress.
The resin of the Boswellia serrata tree is used to make Boswellia, commonly known as Indian frankincense or olibanum. It has a spicy, woody scent that is immediately recognized.
It may be especially helpful at reducing inflammation by preventing the release of inflammation-causing chemicals known as leukotrienes, according to research.
Cumin is a spice that originated in the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. It’s manufactured from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which have a unique earthy, nutty, and spicy flavour.
Cumin has been shown to increase the activity of digestive enzymes and accelerate the flow of bile from the liver, resulting in faster digestion and easier fat digestion.
Turmeric
Turmeric, the yellow spice that gives curry its color, is another famous Ayurvedic treatment.
Curcumin, the major active ingredient, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The test-tube study suggests it may be as effective as, if not more so, than some anti-inflammatory medicines, but without the negative side effects.
Root of licorice
The Glycyrrhiza glabra plant produces licorice root, which is native to Europe and Asia and is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine.
Licorice root appears to help reduce inflammation and combat viruses and germs in both test tubes and humans. It also appears to provide sore throat relief and boost oral health by preventing dental cavities and Candida.
Bitter Melon
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a tropical plant that looks like zucchini, squash, cucumber, or pumpkin. It’s a staple in Asian cuisine, and it’s loaded with minerals and antioxidants.
Bitter melon may help lower blood sugar levels and stimulate insulin release, the hormone responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels steady, according to research.
Cardamom
Since ancient times, cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), sometimes known as the “queen of spices,” has been used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Cardamom powder may assist persons with high blood pressure lowering their blood pressure, according to research. Inhaling cardamom essential oil has also been shown to improve the oxygen intake in the lungs during exercise.
In little amounts, Ayurvedic herbs and spices are generally harmless. Large amounts of these herbs and spices in supplements, as well as Ayurvedic medicines that combine them with other minerals, metals, or stones, may be dangerous.