Herbs We Use and Why
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India and has been practiced for thousands of years. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic herbs play an important role in this system, as they are believed to have a wide range of health benefits.
Here are the top 10 Ayurvedic herbs and their benefits:
1. **Ashwagandha**: This herb is commonly used to help reduce stress and fatigue. It is considered an adaptogen, which means it can help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep .
2. **Bitter Melon**: This herb is commonly used to aid digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. It contains compounds that can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity .
3. **Boswellia**: This herb, also known as Indian frankincense, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease ¹
4. **Bacopa**: This herb is commonly used to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that it can improve memory, attention, and information processing speed ¹
5. **Cardamom**: This spice has potent antioxidant properties that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects
6. **Gotu Kola**: This herb is commonly used to improve brain health. It has been shown to improve memory, reduce anxiety, and protect against age-related cognitive decline ¹
7. **Licorice**: This herb has a wide range of health benefits, including hormonal and digestive health. It has been shown to help regulate cortisol levels, reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, and soothe stomach ulcers
8. **Neem**: This herb has powerful antibacterial properties that can help fight infections and boost immunity. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and blood sugar-lowering effects .
9. **Turmeric**: This spice has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis .
10. **Triphala**: This herbal blend is commonly used to promote digestive health. It has been shown to have laxative effects, improve nutrient absorption, and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract .
Ayurvedic herbs have a wide range of health benefits and have been used for thousands of years to promote wellness and offer a natural way to support overall health and well-being.
Here are some Ayurvedic herbs that have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression:
1. **Ashwagandha**: This herb is commonly used to help reduce stress and anxiety. It is considered an adaptogen, which means it can help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep ¹.
2. **Brahmi**: This herb is commonly used to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that it can improve memory, attention, and information processing speed, as well as reduce anxiety and depression ².
3. **Jatamansi**: This herb is commonly used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It has been shown to have sedative effects and can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety ³.
4. **Sarpagandha**: This herb is commonly used to treat hypertension and insomnia. It has been shown to have sedative effects and can help to reduce anxiety and promote sleep ³.
5. **Vacha**: This herb is commonly used to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. It has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and can help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep ³.
Ayurvedic herbs offer a natural way to help alleviate anxiety and depression. These herbs have been used for thousands of years to promote mental health and well-being.
References:
1. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian journal of psychological medicine, 34(3), 255–262.
2. Kumar, N., Abichandani, L. G., Thawani, V., Gharpure, K. J., Naidu, M. U., & Venkat Ramana, G. (2016). Efficacy of Standardized Extract of Bacopa monnieri (Bacognize®) on Cognitive Functions of Medical Students: A Six-Week, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2016, 4103423.
3. Healthmedley (n.d.). 6 Ayurvedic Medicines for Depression and Anxiety: Best Herbal Remedies for Depression - Healthmedley.com Retrieved from https://healthmedley.com/ayurvedic-medicines-depression-anxiety/
4. Herbal Medicine for Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review with .... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938102/.
5. A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of .... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/.
6. 6 Ayurvedic Medicines for Depression and Anxiety: Best Herbal Remedies .... https://healthmedley.com/ayurvedic-medicines-depression-anxiety/.
7. Ayurveda Herbs For Depression Remedies - NourishDoc. https://www.nourishdoc.com/health/ayurveda-herbs-for-depression-remedies.