Ayurvedic Herbs for Mental & Physical Health

Many people who prefer natural options for medicinal reasons opt for Ayurvedic herbs as opposed to more conventional western forms of medication. Today I'm going to share more about Ayurvedic herbs and spices and how you can use these to stay well—they are truly are a powerhouse of nutrients! Ayurvedic Medicine was said to have started 3,000 years ago in India. It's one of the oldest holistic approaches to healing that we know about. This practice is the belief that a person's mind, body, and spirit can all work together to promote wellness. This holistic approach to medicine states that every person has five elements and each of these elements can connect to free your body from anything that's deteriorating your health both mentally and physically.

One of my favorite ways to incorporate herbs/spices is this Ayurvedic 5-Spice Blend because it helps cool and calm the digestive system. Not to mention, it’s delicious and has been a great addition to my spice collection. I got the recipe from a an Ayurvedic doctor and you can grab the easy recipe here.

Ayurvedic Herbs and How To Use Them

Ajwain

Used to purge toxins and help digestive health, ajwain can be consumed in a tea to lose weight and relieve numerous ailments. This herb is rich in antioxidants, fiber and minerals and has properties that help stimulate your digestive system and nerves. To prepare, just boil 1 tablespoon of roasted Ajwain seeds in 16 ounces of water. This creates “Oma water” which is commonly used to help relieve acidity and indigestion. Ajwain is also especially good for your hair and skin. When applied to the skin as a paste, it can be cleansing and can also aid in lightening acne scars.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an apoptogenic herb which means it helps to reduce stress by supporting the nervous system and HPA axis (hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands). It has many additional benefits as well, including anti-aging properties and the ability to increase energy and memory and reduce anxiety and depression. It can be consumed in many forms, such as a tea, tincture or supplement. Since this herb is fat-soluble it can go deep into tissues for maximum results.

This is an herb that I personally use during stressful times and many of my clients have found blends with ashwaganda to be extremely helpful with brain fog, poor sleep, and a busy mind. Gaia is one of my favorite brands for the blends because they specialize in herbal supplements.

Here’s are my favorites: Both are from the brand Gaia. One for sleep which includes reishi mushrooms for deeper sleep, and one for daytime to calm the nervous system while supporting proper daily energy. View the supplements here to get a discount!

Turmeric

This anti-inflammatory herb helps alleviate pain, promote gut health, and has been known to fight cancer as well as detoxify your liver. Among the vast array of benefits, it can also aid in heavy metal detoxification. Turmeric can be consumed as a supplement and is commonly used as a seasoning in your favorite meals. It’s especially common in east Asian cuisine and gives foods such as curries and rice an orange color.

Again, the Ayurvedic 5-Spice Blend is a tasty way that I add turmeric into my diet, as well as when adding curry spice to veggies or proteins.

Because turmeric fights against inflammation, it may be helpful when feeling “burn-out” or brain fog in the morning after a bad night of sleep or a late night.

Cardamom

This herb is rich in vitamins and can be consumed to help with digestive issues, and improves blood circulation. Many have increased their consumption of cardamom during cold and flu season as it's been known to ward off illness. Use this herb in stews, soups, baked goods and similar recipes. Cardamom is commonly found in Chai blends.

Cinnamon

This is a common Ayurvedic herb that helps lower cholesterol and controls blood sugar levels among other health benefits. Cinnamon can be delicious on top of toast, as a tea or in your favorite recipes.

Cinnamon also has anti-aging properties and can aid in skin health. It can fight acne, reduce wrinkles. Some cultures combine cinnamon and honey and apply the mixture topically to treat eczema. This is a spicy herb, so use it cautiously in order to prevent skin irritations.

A simple way to add cinnamon to your diet is to sprinkle in your tea, matcha, or coffee lattes. And once again, the Ayurvedic 5-Spice Blend checks all the boxes! This blend really does cover a lot of nutritious herbs and spices. These are just some of the many Ayurvedic herbs that you can use in your everyday life to maintain proper mental and physical health. These herbs are often found at a local health food stores.

Ways to Get Discounts & Free Advice

I also have access to high-quality brands that have many of these herbs in supplement form. As a Supplement Specialist, I provide discounts to my clients and to non-clients. If you are interested to learn what supplements may enhance your health and get discounted supplements, please book a free supplement consultation we me. I'd love to help!

Joining the WiseBite Family email list is also a great way to get my monthly newsletter, filled with more health tips, favorites, discounts, and more! Join the family :)

These statements are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases. We recommend seeking medical advise from a licensed medical doctor before changing your diet or lifestyle.