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Before the advent of modern medicine as we know it
many cultures used herbs, spices and other plant materials as natural medicines.
These cures usually came from plants and other natural substances which today
can often be found in the kitchen.
Ayurvedic Medicine is a tradition of treating people holistically that has a
history of treating disease and preventing illness through herbs and even some
of your every day spices found in the kitchen.
A number of Indian plants or herbs and spices have found their way into the
United States. Ginger, Gotu Kola, Gymnema, Cinnamon, Boswellia or Frankincense
and East Indian Globe Thistle are just a few of the Indian herbs that can be
found in your local herbalist store or even at the grocery store.
Ginger
used as a digestive aid this spice has been recommended to cure gas, colic and
even decrease heart burn. It is also known as a tonic to increase vigor and as
an anti-depressant. In India this herb is also known as Sunthi or Adrak
Gotu Kola
Listed as a common herb in India this herb should not be confused with Kola Nut
which is a different plant. In Ayurvedic herbalism this plant has many uses
including wound healing, skin disorders, sedative effects and even seems
promising as a blood pressure lowering herb.
Gymnema
Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar has received a lot of press because it appears to
block sugars. The first noticeable effect when a small amount is placed on the
tongue is that the person stops being able to taste sweets. The theory is that
it has a similar blocking effect internally. The actual effect may be that
because you don't "taste" the sugar it doesn't trigger that "sweet tooth
effect". When used with diabetics a decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels
was noted with this Indian herb.
Cinnamon
In addition to being a key ingredient in mom's cinnamon rolls this spice has
been used as a stimulant for hundreds of years by the Ayurvedic Herbalist. It is
used commonly to alleviate tooth ache, rheumatism and as an astringent. The
essential oil seems to have marked anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties
also.
Boswellia
Also known as Frankincense this gummy residue is used externally for its
anti-inflammatory properties and as an expectorant and immune system booster
when taken internally. This tree is native to India and the Middle East.
East India Globe Thistle
considered a tonic or energizer this herb also seems to have anti-diabetic
qualities and may be found in compounds that promote anti-oxidant effects or
that reduce blood sugar.
The list of Ayurvedic herbs is much longer than just these few. It is noteworthy
that many of these herbs are also spices or foods such as apricot or licorice.
The Ayurvedic tradition promotes the belief that food plays an important role in
curing disease and promoting wellness. The precept that "we are what we eat" is
not a new one it seems.
Taking herbs in place of medications is not without some risk. Many herbs
contain potent substances which can create side effects as well as interactions
with medications.
A common example is ginseng. Ginseng interacts with coumadin (a common blood
thinner) and causes your blood to become even thinner.
Anytime you are considering taking ayurvedic herb or supplement you should
research the effects and side effects and as always if you are taking
medications you should consult with your doctor before starting any herb or
supplement.
Ayurvedic Products on Sale at the Chopra Center Store
Zrii, Ayurveda Nutritional Drink from the Chopra Store
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