โWhen diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need.โ ~ Ayurvedic proverb
SAGE
Associated with longevity and the power to restore failing memory. The purple variety is used in medicine as it is more effective than the green plant. Used to relieve excess mucus in the lungs and is beneficial to the mind too as it can enhance focus and concentration.
Good to treat stomach issues and for cold and flu symptoms. When combined with peppermint, rosemary, and wood betony it provides an excellent headache remedy. Chewing the leaves or making tea from them helps soothe a sore throat and when used on the scalp, it helps to remove dandruff.
When burnt, sage cleanses, protects and helps to raise the spiritual vibration of your home. It does best in sandy, limey soil in full sun.
lavender
Said to deepen your spiritual awareness, lavender has been popular since ancient times for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, depression, and restlessness.
When used as an essential oil it has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits, also it is great for hair loss.
Lavender has a strong soothing effect and the oil can be used effectively for the relief of body aches.
In order to harness its magical properties use it as an incense to deepen meditations and under your pillow to ward off negative energy. In folklore, lavender is carried to see ghosts and worn as protection from the evil eye. Used externally, it can treat bites and stings.
Rosemary
One of the oldest incense, rosemary when burned emits powerful purifying and cleansing vibrations that remove negative energy from ones space.
Known commonly for its culinary and aromatic uses it is also extremely medicinal. Rosemary boosts memory and is a powerful mood enhancer.
Other medicinal effects include reducing blood sugar in the body, promoting hair growth and protection from Alzheimer’s.
As it’s very rich in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, rosemary is good for pain reduction caused by arthritis. It can also be used as a substitute for frankincense.
GARLIC
Used since ancient times for conditions relating to the heart and the blood system including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and skin infections.
Promotes cardiovascular and gut health and is effective against neuron-degenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Garlic has potent antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties and is known to be a good blood purifier as it increases white blood cells in the body, helping to remove harmful toxins.
Turmeric
Contains powerful medicinal properties. Turmeric’s main compound is curcumin which is a natural anti-inflammatory which is why it is excellent for bone and joint health.
It also has powerful antioxidant effects aiding in the removal of free radicals in the body.
Turmeric is also excellent at promoting brain health, it can also be used for the prevention of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Other benefits include a decreased risk of heart disease, anti-cancer properties along with anti-depressant and anti-ageing effects. A true heal everything herb.
Ginger
Ginger has potent medicinal properties which is why it has been used for centuries to aid with various ailments in the body.
Known for its ability to balance blood sugar levels, a natural energy booster and a potent anti-inflammatory. Ginger has been used for thousands of years medicinally and as a spice.
Ginger can help relieve nausea, improve brain function, lower cholesterol, reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis, fights off heart disease, help with muscle aches, is good for menstrual pain and is a natural antioxidant.
Coriander
More than just a garnish, coriander has been used medicinally for centuries as it contains a host of vitamins and minerals essential to the body.
The leaves contain vitamin A, C and have antioxidant effects.
Consuming regularly can help to regulate blood sugar, boost immunity, lower the risk of osteoporosis and improve gut and digestive health.
Cumin Seeds
Known to be very effective at aiding digestion and as an essential oil, cumin has a tranquilizing effect helping to fight stress, anxiety and insomnia.
Cumin is great for removing mucous from the lungs, has anti-inflammatory properties and good source of iron so good for treating anemia.
Can also be used to remove acidity in the body, is excellent for hair nourishment, provides relief from indigestion and is a great immune booster. Add to water for an effective antioxidant.
PARSLEY
Rich in vitamin C and K, parsley can help to make bones stronger, improve heart health, keeps your eyes healthy, protects your kidneys.
Overall a great immune-boosting herb also protects you against diabetes.
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โAyurveda is the science of life and it has a very basic, simple kind of approach, which is that we are part of the universe and the universe is intelligent and the human body is part of the cosmic body.โ ~ Deepak Chopra
Cardamom
Used in cooking and as a medicine for thousands of years for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Used medicinally to treat bacterial and fungal infections, food poisoning and stomach issues. Cardamon can help improve heart and digestive health also relieving discomfort from nausea and vomiting.
Also known to decrease high blood sugar, prevents liver issues and helps with mood disorders like anxiety.
CLOVE
Widely used not only as a spice but as a natural cure for many conditions.
Uses include helping to alleviate the symptoms of an upset stomach, for bone health, fight bacterial infections, relief from arthritis, inflammation and pain in general.
Clove is an effective remedy for toothache, sore gums and mouth ulcers as it is extremely antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.
ashwagandha
Classed as an adaptogen as it helps the body deal with stress, this potent herb has a huge range of health benefits if taken daily. With anti-inflammation and testosterone boosting properties no wonder it’s known as the miracle herb. Benefits include increased stamina and endurance, reduction in anxiety and depression, brain health, soothes body pain and is a potent energy booster.
Bhringraj
Powerful herb used for a wide range of benefits to do with your hair and scalp also hypertension, asthma, headache and vertigo. Bhringraj powder can be taken internally.The general suggested dosage is around 1/2 tsp per day. To make bhringraj hair oil, mix 1 tbsp of organic bhringraj powder in 1 cup coconut oil in a pan. Use a low flame, once it starts sizzling, switch off, let it cool and then strain.
BRAHMI
Used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for its potent anti-inflammatory effects, Brahmi is a wonder herb with many benefits.
Studies have shown it canย improve cognitive function and help with symptoms of ADHD including restlessness, inattention and impulsivity.
Known for its adaptogenic properties as it can help restore the natural balance in the body by helping us cope with stress and anxiety better.
LICORICE ROOT
Originating in theย Mediterranean and the Middle East, Licorice is known as the “great detoxifier” and also “the grandfather of herbs”
With extremely strong anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, Licorice can also help lower blood cholesterol, help the body fight off viruses and bacteria, promote good oral health and treat digestive issues.
When applied topically it can also aid with reducing the symptoms of skin rash, itching and swelling.
GOTU KOLA
Known as the “herb of longevity” for its cognitive benefits such as the ability to improve memory, Gotu Kola is a staple herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
Other benefits include helping to deal with depression, stress and anxiety, so it can be used as a replacement for antidepressants.
There is also evidence that the herb may help prevent stretch marks, reduce varicose veins, help wounds heal faster, and diminish symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.
MACA
Maca is a vegetable crop grown high up in the Andes. It is used widely in Peru due to its high nutritional value, to enhance fertility and sexual performance.
Ethnobotanical studies report the use of maca for depression, cancer and for menstrual and sexual disorders.Other benefits include increased stamina, memory and concentration.
Vitamins included are: B1, B2, and E. Also contains calcium, zinc, iron and omega 3.It acts as a stimulant, positively stabilising blood glucose which leads to the reported increase in energy.
PASSISON FLOWER
Passion flower is used as a natural remedy to help you get a better nights sleep andย feel more refreshed in the morning.
It has a long history of traditional use among Native American tribes who use it for many conditions including nervous system disorders, sleeplessness, anxiety, convulsions, headaches, hypoventilation, and heart palpitations.
Also, it is used to help relieve reflux pains in pregnancy and menopause and alleviate whooping cough and spasmodic asthma.
PANAX GINSENG
Otherwise known as Korean Ginseng or “True Ginseng” It is well known for its ability to improve cognition, mood and especially to promote calmness and reduce stress.
Panax Ginseng can also regulate hormones as it can help improve male fertility by increasing testosterone, in turn, libido and is also good for female sexual health as well.ย Studies have shown it can help to promote blood flow, reduce fatigue and is great for overall health and vitality.
GINKGO BILOBA
Ginkgo Biloba comes from an ancient tree grown mainly in China, Japan and Korea. It’s well-documented benefits include helping to improve memory, circulation and vision.
It is also used as a treatment for bronchitis and is antimicrobial which means it can help fight disease. Ginkgo Biloba also has anxiety-reducing benefits and is said it can improve libido and even reduce the symptoms of tinnitus.
Astragalus
Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for a wide variety of purposes including helping to improve heart and kidney function by widening the blood vessels to improve blood flow.ย
Studies show it can also benefit people undergoing chemotherapy as it is a potent immune system enhancer. In addition, it has the ability to slow tumour growth and is also a potent anti-inflammatory with added anti-ageing properties.ย Atralagus helps to rejuvenate the body and mind believed to prolong life as is a great all-around herb for longevity.ย
DAMIANA
With potent aphrodisiac qualities, Damiana can stimulate libido in both men and women. Classed as an energy tonic by herbalists as it is useful in improving mental and physical stamina.
It works by increasing circulation to the genital and abdominal areas by helping to widen blood vessels. Another benefit is that it helps to regulate hormonal imbalances. Recommended for low libido and to improve energy levels.ย
โAyurveda teaches us to cherish our innate nature โ to love and honor who we are, not as what people think or tell us who we should be.โ
moringa
Easy to grow tropical plant native to the Himalayan mountains and parts of India and Africa. Moringa is considered a superfood dubbed as the miracle plant for its potent nutrients including high vitamin A, protein and vitamin C. According to Kuli Kuli, an organization that harvests moringa plants in Africa, gram for gram, the plant contains:
-Twice times the amount of protein of yoghurt
-Four times the amount of vitamin A as carrots
-Three times the amount of potassium as bananas
-Four times the amount of calcium as cowโsโ milk
-Seven times the amount of vitamin C as oranges
Other benefits are it provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, balances hormones and slows the effects of ageing, helps improve digestive health, balances blood sugar levels, helps fight diabetes, protects and nourishes the skin, helps stabilize your mood and protects brain health.
Precaution: Start with a small amount (1 teaspoon powder form) as higher dosages can cause a laxative effect. Better to consume the tea made from leaves.
shilajit
Found in the Himalayan and Tibetan Mountains, tar-like goo high in fulvic acid. Commonly used in the ancient practice of Ayurveda as it is known to rejuvenate the whole body.Benefits include increased energy and revitalisation, promotes brain health, regulates hormones and the immune system, helps manage diabetes, fights inflammation and viruses, good for heart and blood and can help to break addictions.
Over 3,000 years ago, shilajit was mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts. Known as โconqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness,โ it has been one of the staples of traditional medicine (and an aphrodisiac) in a variety of Asian countries for thousands of years for its energy and revitalisation effects.
Garcinia cambogia
The fruit is grown in Southeast Asia and India containing the key active ingredient hydroxycitric acid (HCA) which is known for its weight loss aiding properties.ย Studies have demonstrated HCA can reduce the conversion of carbohydrates into stored fat by inhibiting certain enzyme processes. Cambogia benefits include:
-Loss of appetite or less of a desire to eat than usual
-Reduced cravings for unhealthy foods, such as sugar addiction
-A more positive mood (including feeling happier, more energetic and less tired)
-Increased energy and concentration
-Stabilized blood sugar levels
-Improved bowel movements
-Reduced joint pains
-Improved cholesterol levels
-A stronger desire to be physically active
-Treating constipation, haemorrhoids, and intestinal parasites
Many people should avoid Garcinia Cambogia due to how it can affect other medications, pregnancy, nutrient levels, blood sugar and more.ย
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