5 Ayurvedic Herbs to Combat Common Ailments

Ayurveda, as we know, is an ancient Indian system of medicine, has been gaining popularity across the globe for its holistic approach to healing. According to V.C. Ajith Kumar, Director and Principal Ayurveda Consultant, herbs derived from plants have been used for centuries to treat various ailments and promote overall well-being. These natural remedies offer a gentle yet effective solution to common health issues without the side effects often associated with conventional medicine.

Common ailments and their causes

Before delving into the world of Ayurvedic herbs, it’s important to understand the common ailments they can address. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurvedic Consultant, says, “From coughs and colds to digestive issues and stress-related disorders, our modern lifestyles often leave us susceptible to various health problems. These ailments can be caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, environmental toxins, and genetic predispositions. By identifying the root causes of these conditions, we can better address them using Ayurvedic herbs as a natural and holistic approach.”

Ayurvedic herbs for natural remedies

One of the key advantages of using Ayurvedic herbs is their ability to promote balance and harmony in the body, says the consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore. “Ayurveda believes that imbalances in the doshas, or energy forces, lead to disease and discomfort. These herbs help restore balance by addressing the underlying causes of ailments rather than merely suppressing symptoms,” adds the Ayurveda Singapore consultant. Moreover, Ayurvedic herbs are known for their gentle yet powerful healing properties, making them suitable for people of all ages and constitutions. They also support the body’s innate healing mechanisms, aiding in long-term wellness.

Ayurvedic herb #1: Ginger

Ginger, a well-known Ayurvedic herb, has been used for centuries to ease sore throat and improve digestion. “Ginger is a warming herb that helps to relieve congestion, cough, and sore throat. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,” says an Ayurvedic Consultant. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is used to relieve nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness.

According to a practitioner at Ayurvedic Singapore, to incorporate ginger into your daily routine, you can make ginger tea. This is a classic way to enjoy ginger. Steep fresh ginger piece in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. You can use a drop of honey or lemon to taste. If you have nausea or motion sickness, try drinking ginger tea. Sucking on ginger candy will also help. If you are having a sore throat, try gargling with ginger tea or adding grated ginger to your favourite hot beverage. If you have muscle pain, try rubbing ginger essential oil on the affected area. If you have indigestion, add grated ginger to your food or drink ginger tea. However, one should approach an Ayurveda Consultant if the symptoms persist.

Ayurvedic herb #2: Tulsi

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is a powerful herb with many medicinal properties. It is used to boost the immune system, fight infection, and relieve symptoms of colds and flu. An Ayurveda Singapore consultant says that Tulsi Kadha is a traditional Ayurvedic tea made with tulsi leaves, ginger, and peppercorns. It is believed to help boost the immune system and relieve symptoms of colds and flu. 

You can incorporate tulsi into your daily routine by making tulsi tea. Tulsi tea is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the herb. You can prepare it by steeping fresh or dried leaves of tulsi in hot water for 5-10 minutes. One can also include tulsi in your food. Tulsi can be added to various dishes, both savoury and sweet. Add it to stir-fries, curries, soups, smoothies, or baked goods. Tulsi essential oil can be used in aromatherapy or applied to the skin. It is said to have calming and relaxing properties.

Ayurvedic herb #3: Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is another powerful herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used to relieve pain, inflammation, and congestion. You can include turmeric in your daily life. Make turmeric tea. Turmeric tea is a delicious drink. It is an easy way to get your daily dose of turmeric. You can make it by steeping turmeric powder in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Honey or lemon can also be added for better taste. 

An Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore says, “Golden milk is made with turmeric, honey, and milk. It’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to relieve symptoms of colds and flu.”

Turmeric can be added to various dishes, both savoury and sweet. Add it to stir-fries, curries, soups, smoothies, or baked goods. An Ayurveda Consultant says, “We can also use Turmeric as a topical treatment for pain and inflammation. You can make a turmeric paste by mixing turmeric powder with coconut oil or water and applying it to the affected area.”

Ayurvedic herb #4: Licorice

Licorice is a sweet, flavorful herb used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a soothing herb that helps to relieve cough, sore throat, and dry mouth, says a practitioner at Ayurveda Singapore. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can take licorice tea into your daily routine. This is a classic way to enjoy licorice. Steep a piece of fresh licorice root in hot water for 5-10 minutes. You can use honey or lemon to taste. You can also add licorice to your food. Licorice can be added to various dishes, both savoury and sweet. Add it to stir-fries, curries, soups, smoothies, or baked goods.

Ayurvedic herb #5: Ashwagandha

As per a practitioner at Ayurveda Singapore, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to improve overall health and well-being. It is said to have many benefits, including reducing stress, anxiety, and fatigue, improving sleep, and boosting the immune system.

You can include ashwagandha into your daily routine by making ashwagandha tea. Steep ashwagandha powder in hot water for 10 minutes. You can also add honey or lemon. 

Conclusion

Ayurvedic herbs offer a treasure trove of natural remedies to combat common ailments. By embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda, we can tap into the healing power of nature and nurture our well-being. However, it’s important to approach Ayurvedic herbs cautiously and seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic Consultant. With proper knowledge and personalized advice, you can harness the potential of Ayurvedic herbs to promote balance, vitality, and vibrant life.