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Fenugreek is an Ayurvedic herb, which can Dealing with diabetes can be a hassle, especially if you entirely depend on medicines to keep your blood sugar levels at check. Ayurveda recommends a combination of dietary and lifestyle practices and remedies for blood sugar control. One such remedy that helps you maintain your blood sugar levels is fenugreek. It is a common kitchen spice that might just make a big difference in your blood sugar levels. Apart from its use in cooking, fenugreek has some incredible health benefits, especially for diabetes management. What is Fenugreek? Fenugreek is a herb that belongs to the legume family. Its seeds are often used in cooking, especially in Indian cuisine. However, it is not just an aromatic spice. It has been popular in many ancient cultures for being an overall healing agent. It helps in digestion, increasing milk production in nursing woman as well as most importantly for management of blood sugar levels. Fenugreek and Diabetes There are several qualities, that make fenugreek good for diabetes: Fibre Fenugreek seeds are rich in water-soluble fibre. It slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and sugars in the intestines. Thus, it helps to control the blood sugar spikes after meals. Insulin sensitivity Studies show that fenugreek has the components that increase your insulin sensitivity especially in people with Type 2 diabetes. Hence it allows your body to use insulin in a better way. Aids in blood sugar control Studies show that fenugreek helps reduce fasting blood sugar levels. Its seeds are believed to stimulate the secretion of insulin due to the amino acid 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which can reduce blood sugar levels. Anti-inflammatory properties People with diabetes often suffer from inflammation, especially of the joints. Not only does it decrease inflammation but it also increases insulin sensitivity due to its anti-inflammatory nature. Ways to Use Fenugreek for Blood Sugar Control You can use fenugreek in different ways in order to regulate blood sugar levels. Fenugreek Seeds You can also take its seeds directly. Soak one teaspoon seeds in water overnight and consume as the first thing in the morning without eating anything. Ground Fenugreek You can also add a teaspoon of the powder to a glass of warm water or milk and drink one to two times a day. Fenugreek Tea Another way is to boil its seeds in water and make tea out of that. It is a relaxing way to experience the added benefit of reducing your blood sugar. Fenugreek as per Ayurveda In Ayurveda, fenugreek is known as “Methi” and is used for various health conditions. Ayurveda recognizes fenugreek’s ability to balance the body’s doshas (energies) and its role in managing blood sugar levels. It’s often recommended for people with diabetes and metabolic disorders. Precautions While fenugreek is generally safe for most people, there are a few things to keep in mind: Consult Your Doctor It can interact with certain medications and affect blood sugar levels. Before consuming it, consult with a doctor, especially if you’re taking medication for diabetes. Possible Side Effects Some people may experience mild side effects like digestive discomfort, diarrhoea or gas when they first start taking fenugreek. These symptoms usually subside as your body adjusts. Allergies If you’re allergic to legumes like peanuts or chickpeas, you might also be allergic to fenugreek. Start with a small amount to see if you have any adverse reactions. It is a versatile and powerful herb that can support blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Its high fibre content, ability to improve insulin sensitivity and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to a diabetes management plan. By incorporating it into your daily routine, you might notice more stable blood sugar levels and improved overall health. Remember, while fenugreek can be beneficial, it’s important to use it as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. It’s always best to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor before adding anything new to your diet. Want to learn more about Ayurvedic natural remedies for diabetes management? Watch this video: If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

Kapha Dosha is responsible for giving structure and lubrication to the body. When balanced, Kapha gives us strength, protects against diseases and keeps us calm. But if it’s out of balance, it can cause weight gain, congestion and tiredness. My treatment for Dosha imbalances majorly involves dietary and lifestyle correction. And if necessary, It includes medicines in the treatment that aligns with the patients’ Prakriti (body type), Dosha imbalances and health conditions. The medicines are made in my unit using Ayurvedic medicinal Plants through traditional methods as mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas. The Ayurvedic texts have mentions of an array of medicinal plants that help balance your Doshas. In this blog, let us discuss the top herbs that help balance Kapha Dosha. 5 Potent Medicinal Plants to Balance Kapha Dosha These are some of the top medicinal plants that can help balance your Kapha Dosha: Turmeric Turmeric or Haridra is a bright yellow spice that comes from the dried rhizome of a plant in the ginger family. It’s a superstar in Ayurveda, known for its many healing properties. The herb is particularly effective in balancing Kapha Dosha. Its warming, dry and light qualities counteract Kapha’s heavy and moist nature. Benefits Anti-inflammatory Properties: One of the most amazing things about turmeric is its curcumin content. This compound helps reduce inflammation, which is great for managing Kapha. Digestion: Turmeric supports the digestive fire or Agni, aiding digestion and metabolism. This is especially helpful for people with Kapha body types, who often struggle with slow digestion. Detoxification: Another fantastic benefit of turmeric is its ability to support liver function and eliminate toxins (Ama) from the body. I often feel lighter and more energized when I regularly include turmeric in my diet. How to Use Turmeric is a staple ingredient in almost all Indian dishes. So, I would say it is the best way to incorporate turmeric into your routine. You can add it as an ingredient to curries and soups or use its powder to make tea. Also, you can combine it with warm milk to make turmeric milk, which is great for coughs and colds, getting a good sleep and alleviating period cramps. If you prefer, you can take turmeric supplements, but it’s always a good idea to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor first. Ginger Ginger, known as Shunti in Sanskrit, is a versatile herbal option to balance your Kapha Dosha. It has warming and stimulating properties that help in energizing the body and fighting off problems associated with Kapha, such as feeling “sluggish” or “congested.” Benefits Digestive Health: Works as a good appetizer and helps to improve digestion by enhancing the Agni. This reduces the accumulation of Ama as well as ensures that the food gets digested properly. Respiratory Health: Works as an expectorant and helps remove mucus from the respiratory tract. This not only helps in relieving congestion but also makes breathing easier. Weight Control: The herbs are able to enhance metabolism and help in weight reduction. It can prove to be especially effective if there is a Kapha vitiation in the individual’s body. How to Use Ginger can be used as an ingredient in cooking. You can also add it to teas, juices, smoothies, or can even be used as a spice in cooking. Ginger supplements are another option. But it is safe to consult an Ayurvedic doctor before trying them out. Trikatu Trikatu is a blend of three powerful spices: black pepper, long pepper (Pippali) and dry ginger. The strong heating and stimulating properties of this combination is great for balancing Kapha Dosha. Benefits Metabolic Booster: Trikatu helps enhance your metabolism and boosts your Agni, which helps your body process food more efficiently. Detoxification: It helps your body get rid of Ama, reducing the risk of Kapha-related issues. Respiratory Health: Trikatu is also good for clearing respiratory congestion and improving lung function. How to Use You can take Trikatu powder with honey or warm water. It’s also available in tablet form. As always, it’s best to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor before starting any new supplement. Tulsi Tulsi or Holy Basil is an important herb used in Ayurveda due to its numerous health benefits. It has the added advantage of helping to decrease Kapha Dosha due to its light, dry, and warm nature. Benefits Respiratory Support: Tulsi has a good effect on the respiratory passage and thins the mucus therefore; it is of great value in the case of Kapha respiratory disorders. Stress Relief: It is an adaptogenic agent since it can help the body deal with stress to the point of sharpening your mind. Immune Support: Tulsi also helps to strengthen the body’s defense and increases the body’s capability to fight diseases and infections. How to Use Tulsi can be consumed raw or the leaves may be boiled to prepare a tea or it can be used as a seasoning while preparing a particular dish. Tulsi capsules/tinctures are also available for those who do not want to consume leaves or Tulsi powder. Also Read: Health Benefits of Tulsi Cinnamon Cinnamon or Twak in Sanskrit is a warm spice that helps in moderating Kapha Dosha. Due to its Pungent and hot like qualities, it can be used to balance excess Kapha Dosha. Benefits Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon has a healing effect on blood sugar. Since blood sugar level is a major determinant of metabolism and weight, cinnamon is of great help. Improved Circulation: It stimulates blood flow which combats Kapha’s tendency to cause lethargy. Digestive Aid: Cinnamon helps in digestion and aids in getting rid of digestive problems like bloating and indigestion. How to Use Cinnamon is best added to… Continue reading Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda for Balancing Kapha Dosha

Coriander seeds and leaves have played a vital role in Indian cuisine for many years. The herb’s scientific name is Coriandrum Sativum Linn, but it is also known as Dhanyaka or Dhanya, translated as ‘the rich one.’ Its earthy and rejuvenating taste is well recognized, and it also provides several health benefits. Let’s thoroughly analyze the various benefits of this uncomplicated plant. What is the composition of Dhanyaka? Dhanyaka’s leaves and seeds are rich in Vitamin K. Vitamin K plays a role in maintaining the health of your blood and also your bones. The herb not only contains a high amount of Vitamin A, which aids in improving eye function, but also maintaining moisture and preserving vision. It also contains Vitamin C, which is beneficial for your health.. Some of its benefits are: Strengthen your body’s ability to fight off sickness. Improve how white blood cells work. Enhance the body’s ability to absorb iron. Heal cuts and scrapes faster. Produce more collagen protein to make skin healthier and more stretchy. The human body contains numerous free radicals, which are loose oxygen molecules. They cause significant damage to the cells and increase the risk of developing severe illnesses such as cancer. Dhanyaka contains numerous antioxidants that help the body combat and eliminate free radicals. It prevents blood from clotting and reduces the risk of artery blockages. This is why the herb is essential in Ayurvedic medicine: to reduce the chance of heart problems and support heart function. The nutrients found in its seeds aid in maintaining clear blood vessels and preventing them from becoming hardened. Dhanyaka can assist in reducing high blood pressure by eliminating excess salt from the body. It contains essential minerals such as iron, folate, and potassium, as well as beneficial oils like geraniol, linalool, terpene, and camphene. These factors contribute to the herb’s effectiveness in alleviating a variety of health issues, such as migraines, arthritis, discomfort, inflammation, anemia, and others. Vital Phytoconstituent of Dhaynaka Dhaynaka plants contain a high water content of 84%. Fruits contain oils, fats, and various other compounds. Coriander oil contains coriandrol, geraniol, and baborneol. Fresh leaves contain oil, coriandrol, oxalic acid and calcium. Leaves contain high amounts of vitamin C and carotene. Seeds contain fatty oil and essential oil at a rate of 19-21 percent. Linalool, a terpene alcohol present in Dhanyaka, has various healing applications, such as safeguarding the brain, alleviating pain and inhibiting seizures. Benefits of Dhanyaka Some of the medicinal benefits of the Dhanyaka plant are discussed below. Helps in digestion Digestion is the bodily mechanism through which food is broken down into smaller parts, allowing for the absorption and utilization of nutrients. Dhanyaka is considered an effective treatment for stomach issues and pitta imbalances in Ayurvedic medicine. The plant has properties that can alleviate stomach discomfort and have a soothing effect. It assists in enhancing digestion while preventing acid reflux. Dhanyaka helps improve digestion and prevents the formation of toxins or Ama caused by undigested food. It aids in the body’s absorption and utilization of nutrients from food. It can also help in alleviating swelling, gas, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, bloating and other gastrointestinal issues. Balances Doshas When combined with other digestive herbs from Ayurveda, such as Indian Bael, Mochras, Saunth, Dhataki, etc. Dhanyaka is an ingredient in Bilwadi Churna, an Ayurvedic remedy that aims to restore balance to Vata, Pitta and Kapha in the body. As Ayurvedic doctors, we often recommend using herbal blends to maintain a healthy stomach and enhance digestion. However, make sure that you do not take any herbal medicines without proper guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Cleansing properties The seeds of the Dhanyaka plant can enhance the urinary tract and prevent infections. Consuming Dhanyaka juice has benefits for both your internal and external health. It aids in the functioning of various organs within the body, purifies the blood, enhances the digestive process and reduces allergic reactions and irritations resulting from excess body heat. The leaves aid in the safe removal of harmful toxins such as lead, mercury, arsenic and other heavy metals from the body. When used topically, the juice improves skin health, eases allergies and irritations, reduces signs of aging, and gives skin a radiant glow. Cleanses liver Dhanyaka is a gentle spice that supports liver health and can stimulate appetite if liver function is compromised. When combined with certain herbs that are effective in promoting liver function, it also has the potential to aid in the elimination of kidney and gallstones. Helps treat Rheumatoid Arthritis According to AIIMS researchers, the herb is very successful in reducing Rheumatoid Arthritis. It aids the immune system, reduces inflammation in the joints, and hinders the production of chemicals that contribute to this issue. Another research study found that Dhanyaka decreased arthritis symptoms by supplying vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Unlike other medications for the condition, Dhanyaka does not cause any adverse side effects. Antianxiety and anticonvulsant Properties Dhanyaka plant has the potential to alleviate anxiety and decrease blood pressure. In 2019, research conducted by the University of California analyzed the impact of Dhanyaka on the brain. When the herb is ingested, it interacts with specific potassium channels in the brain to decrease excessive cell activity and excitement, resulting in a calming effect. It is effective in mitigating severe seizures in patients and serves as a beneficial treatment for preventing convulsions. Reduces cholesterol and sugar levels Dhanyaka seeds have a significant impact on diabetes and cholesterol. Indeed, they help decrease inflammation and function as antioxidants, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Dhanyaka can also effectively reduce cholesterol levels. Also read: Tulsi Cough Drops and Benefits If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who… Continue reading Dhanyaka (Coriander)’s Medicinal Properties

Changing seasons can have an effect on your Doshas. That’s why it is important to understand your Dosha imbalances with each season and find the best practices that would help you to adapt and be in good health despite the changes. Kapha season usually refers to late winter and spring. The season is typically cold, damp and stagnant. Known as Shishira Ritu in Ayurveda, this is the season where Kapha Dosha gains dominance and your Agni (digestive fire) is at its peak. Identifying Kapha Kapha people are most likely to have a compact big-boned structure. They have deep-set eyes and strong hair, and tend to gain weight. Excessive Dosha can manifest as chest and lung or nasal congestions. It can also cause digestive problems due to a sluggish gut. Emotional factors might create overeating & end up in gaining weight. Kapha’s imbalance is also associated with sadness and emotional turbulence. It tends to favour a lethargic sedentary lifestyle. Individuals who have heightened the Dosha are likely to suffer from diabetes, gallstones, hypertension, varicose veins and oedema. Symptoms of Kapha imbalance A Kapha imbalance is usually marked by the following symptoms: Lethargy Excessive sleepiness Nausea Constipation Indigestion Ayurvedic tips to balance kapha Ayurveda works on the principles of Doshas – Vata, Kapha and Pitta. While each of us has a unique proportion of each of the Doshas, a predominant Dosha tends to increase more quickly than the others. Kapha season tends to bring on the qualities and symptoms of excess stagnation. Its dominance is represented as a heavy sluggish tendency, it is characterized by heaviness and slow gait. An imbalance in this can lead to stubbornness. Trying out new routines or interests can stimulate a lethargic mind. As per Ayurveda, a healthy balance can be restored by following a lifestyle, food regimen, and exercise pattern. A vigorous self-massage with warm organic sesame oil is prescribed to invigorate the stagnant Kapha. Sesame oil abhyanga aids in balancing Kapha Dosha. Kapha season is when the dosha is dominant. It is characterized by slow movements and grounding qualities. Those people who are prone to it must keep their feet warm and protect their chests from cold breezes. Opt for warm food and steer clear of raw food as well as frozen foods and beverages. The consumption of bitter and astringent tastes has lowering effects on it. Waking up before sunrise can also be very beneficial to a Kapha personality. Do not sleep late into the day. An early start can help balance this dosha . A glass of warm water can help activate your bowels and cleanse your body as a persons tend to suffer from constipation. Clearing of the nasal passage will provide relief from the symptoms. Ayurvedic tips to welcome the Kapha season Keeping warm is intrinsic to handling the Kapha season. Avoid cold and damp places. Consume warm meals, warm teas, warm water and nuts. Add Tulsi or mint leaves to your tea to stimulate the digestive system. Consumption of warm beverages and sipping hot water throughout the day help in heating and detoxifying. Stay warm. Move out of cold damp spaces and choose warm dry places. Kapha season tends to bring lethargy. It might herald the onslaught of depressive and stagnant thoughts and feelings. Ensure that you engage and rev up your psychological well-being. Another often-noticed fallout of the Kapha season is the lack of energy. It can get exacerbated due to stress and inadequate sleep. Its combat imbalance, therefore, with good sleep hygiene, can significantly improve energy levels Activity is crucial for balancing the dosha. Yoga can help significantly during the Kapha season. You can balance Kapha by combining pranayama with yoga to ensure sufficient circulation and strengthen the respiratory system. Alternate nose breathing works wonders for its imbalance. You can also incorporate Surya Namaskar into your yoga routine. Activate your body during the mornings and evenings with yoga and daily walks. Consume seasonal fruits like oranges, pears and apples. However, avoid very sour fruits. Also, do not consume heavy fruits like coconut, bananas, and dates. Incorporate turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, fennel, and nutmeg as they can help generate heat. These spices will pacify and stimulate the digestive system. Correcting Kapha imbalance Ayurveda can help you manage Kapha imbalance with lifestyle modifications and the right diet. Your diet must neutralize its properties. Since it is light and cool, warm and dry foods can help restore the balance. Foods that are light and spiced can help curtail the tendency to overeat. Heavy foods, on the other hand, tend to burden the system and, consequently, worsen Kapha symptoms. Oily and pungent foods aggravate Kapha. Kapha tends to produce plenty of moist mucus and it is therefore recommended to eat dry foods with minimal ghee or oil. You can include grains, beans and seeds. Ayurveda does not recommend consuming buttermilk and milk products during its season. Kapha is often aggravated by milk products. However, you can consider adding yoghurt or ghee to your diet. The consumption of wheat must be reduced too. Avoid processed foods and refined sugar. Sweets might increase the lethargic feeling. Refined foods have hardly any fibre; therefore, they can aggravate it Ayurvedic Herbs to Combat Kapha Dosha Ayurvedic herbs that can support Kapha include Trikatu, Bibhitaki, and Arjuna. People use bibhitaki, a traditional herb, to treat throat infections and other ailments related to its imbalance. Its anti-oxidant properties relieve stress and improve gastrointestinal functioning. Turmeric has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It works, therefore, as a soothing agent on the digestive system and, in addition, prevents the growth of yeast and bacteria. Ginger provides relief from digestive issues and nausea. It works on diseases such as poor digestion and, furthermore, sinusitis. You can welcome the kapha season with simple lifestyle routines such as slowing… Continue reading Kapha Time is Here! Ayurveda’s Secrets for Staying Balanced

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Fenugreek – Nature’s Ally for Balanced Blood Sugar in Diabetes

Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda for Balancing Kapha Dosha

Dhanyaka (Coriander)’s Medicinal Properties

Kapha Time is Here! Ayurveda’s Secrets for Staying Balanced

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