Monday, March 30, 2009

Most Common Ayurvedic Herbs



Ayurvedic herbs are used to create remedies for various illnesses and to pacify the doshas, what Ayurveda calls each body's constitution. The basic premise of Ayurvedic medicine is that the doshas must remain in balance for the body to heal itself and to remain healthy. When one dosha becomes aggravated or begins to dominate your constitution, your health is threatened, but when you take action to bring that dosha back under control, your body can heal and strengthen itself.
By following an Ayurvedic diet and using Ayurvedic products, you can tame the aggravated dosha and bring your body back into balance.
The most commonly used Ayurvedic herbs are the following:

Ashwagandha : Ashwagandha root is used to strengthen weakness. It can help a person struggling with mental or physical exhaustion and is sometimes used to help overcome impotence or low sperm count. It is often compared to ginseng in its ability to naturally energize a person.

Coleus forskohli : The root of coleus forskohli is used for several purposes. It is believed to improve circulation, restore heart health, treat congestive heart failure and aid in pulmonary circulation problems. It is often used in conjunction with other herbs.

Ginger : Ginger root is used to aid in digestion, especially to treat nausea, upset stomach, and flatulence. It is often used in Ayurvedic teas aimed at stimulated healthy digestion and elimination; it is also included in many Ayurvedic cooking recipes.

Gotu kola : Gotu kola is often eaten as a salad or eaten as a medicinal plant leaf. It is used to promote healthy skin, hair and nails; it is also reputed to heal lesions of the skin and eczema.

Tumeric : Tumeric has been long used by Ayurvedic practitioners to treat obesity, but it is now being used also as an anti-inflammatory to treat those who suffer with arthritis. Studies have shown tumeric helps break down dietary fats and helps protect against blood clots. Most Ayurvedic supplements are available in a variety of forms, from pills to tonics to teas. Check with an Ayurvedic practitioner near you for a proper diagnosis and prescription of herbal remedies.

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