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Ayurvedic herbs and Panchakarma are the most popular Ayurveda stereotypes. There are many treatment methods in Ayurveda beyond Panchakarma. However, the role of ayurvedic herbs in healing is undeniable. The Samhitas have mentions of a wide variety of herbs that help cure different health conditions. Each of them has their own medicinal qualities and healing potential. In this blog, let us look into the top 10 essential Ayurvedic herbs. Top 9 Ayurvedic Herbs Here are some of the best herbs that Ayurveda recommends: Turmeric Turmeric is known as the golden spice due to the presence of the active component, Curcumin that gives it the yellow colour. The presence of Curcumin makes turmeric a great remedy for long-term health issues, despite like arthritis and diabetes. The strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric provides relief from joint pain, improves digestion and boosts immunity. Tulsi Known as “Queen of Herbs,” Tulsi has immune-modulating, adaptogenic and antibacterial properties. This herb helps boost your energy, lower stress and indeed promote respiratory health. Despite its benefits, it is not safe to overconsume Tulsi, especially if you have bleeding problems or low blood sugar levels. Triphala Triphala is a popular Ayurvedic formulation with three fruits (Amalaki, Bhibitaki and Haritaki) as its ingredients. It is majorly used externally, especially in Ayurvedic products, like shampoos. Brahmi Brahmi is popular as a brain booster herb. In Addition, It has cognitive-enhancing properties and is known to promote mental clarity and memory. However, consult with a qualified doctor before having this herb, especially if you have hypothyroidism or mental health issues. Neem Neem is referred to as “village pharmacy” for its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. The herb serves an array of purposes from helping to maintain general well-being to supporting immunity and even improving dental and skin health. It is best to avoid using neem during pregnancy. Also, make sure to get medical advice before applying neem oil topically as it may cause irritation to some. Ginger Ginger is a powerful ingredient in cooking as well as a medicinal herb. It is great for digestion and also, reduces nausea and inflammation. Having ginger helps relax tense muscles, promotes cardiovascular health and reduces menstrual cramps. However, it is safe to have it in moderation as high dosages may irritate the stomach. Also Read: Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda for Balancing Kapha Licorice Licorice is my absolute favourite. The herb tastes sweet and has calming properties. It also helps balance adrenal glands, provides relief from throat discomfort and improves respiratory health. Also, it helps reduce menopausal symptoms, and is great for gastrointestinal healing and managing stress. It is safe to use licorice under a doctor’s supervision because of prolonged usage or excessive dosages may cause hypertension or electrolyte imbalances. Guduchi Guduchi or Giloy helps in detoxification, improves immunity and offers longevity. It also helps reduce inflammation and infections, and improves overall well-being. However, avoid having Guduchi during pregnancy. Amla Amla is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C that makes it a great immunity booster. It also helps to regenerate the body, encourages healthy, glowing skin and hair and enhances digestion. Including the above-mentioned Ayurvedic herbs in your daily routine helps improve your general health. However, it is always safe to consult an Ayurvedic doctor before having any new herb. 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.

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that incorporates the offerings of nature to help people heal. Ancient Ayurvedic texts have mentions of an array of herbs that help treat different health conditions. Ativisha is one of them. The plant is known for its amazing medicinal properties and is especially used to treat diseases in children. According to Charaka, Ativisha is the best among all herbs for its digestive, anti-flatulent, absorbent and Dosha balancing properties. Ativisha – The Power Herb Ativisha (scientific name -Aconitum heterophyllum) is a herb native to the Himalayan area. The roots of this plant have been used for a broad range of medicinal purposes, which makes them highly valuable. Ativisha has a hot and pungent taste and is dry, light and penetrating in nature. The ability to balance the Tridosha and improve overall health is another essential characteristic of this power herb. As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I have seen a positive effect of this herb on my patients. I remember one child who had suffered from digestive problems and the constant increase of temperature several times a month. The conventional treatment did not bring results. However, after I began to use the herb, the issue was diminished. From this experience, I learned, once again, that every single philosophy holds some truth, and the power of nature may be undisputable. Ayurvedic Perspective on Ativisha In Ayurveda, Ativisha is classified as: Rasa (Taste): Bitter (Tikta) and Pungent (Katu) Guna (Qualities): Light (Laghu) and Dry (Ruksha) Virya (Potency): Cold (Shita) Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Pungent (Katu) These properties make the herb effective in balancing Vata and Kapha Doshas while pacifying Pitta Dosha to a lesser extent. Health Benefits of Ativisha Here are a variety of health benefits that Ativish offers: Digestive Health Digestive issues are common, but they can significantly affect your quality of life. Ativisha is known for its ability to stimulate Agni, the digestive fire, which is essential for proper digestion and assimilation of food. By enhancing Agni, Ativisha helps in the breakdown of food, absorption of nutrients, and elimination of waste. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with weak digestion, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort. Also read: Agni- Ayurvedic Secret to Health and Vitality Fever Management Ayurveda widely uses Ativisha for its antipyretic properties. It helps in reducing fever by lowering the body temperature. It is often included in formulations for treating fevers, especially in children. Its antimicrobial properties help in fighting the underlying infections that cause fever, thereby providing relief and promoting recovery. Respiratory Health Respiratory conditions, such as cough, cold and asthma can be debilitating. Ativisha’s expectorant properties help in clearing the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe. It reduces inflammation in the airways and, consequently, helps expel phlegm, thereby providing relief from symptoms. Regular use of Ativisha can improve respiratory health and prevent recurrent respiratory infections. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Properties Inflammation and pain are common symptoms in various health conditions, including arthritis and muscle pain. Ativisha has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties; consequently, it helps reduce inflammation and, furthermore, alleviates pain. It, therefore, helps relieve joint and muscle pain and improves mobility. Gastrointestinal Health Diarrhoea and dysentery are common gastrointestinal issues that can lead to dehydration and weakness. Ativisha is highly effective in treating these conditions. It helps in controlling loose stools; furthermore, it also aids in reducing the frequency of bowel movements. Its antimicrobial properties combat the pathogens responsible for gastrointestinal infections, promoting faster recovery and improving gut health. Paediatric Care Children are often more susceptible to infections and digestive issues. Therefore, Ativisha is a safe and effective remedy for various childhood ailments. It helps in managing colic, fever, cough and diarrhoea in children. Besides, its gentle action ensures that it does not cause any adverse effects, making it suitable for paediatric use. Boosting Immunity A strong immune system is crucial for maintaining good health. Moreover, Ativisha has immunomodulatory properties that help in boosting the immune system. Regular use of the herb can enhance the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases, promoting overall health and well-being Practical Uses of Ativisha Some of the practical uses of Ativisha include the following: Decoction: Boil the roots of Ativisha in water and consume the decoction. This helps improve digestion and reduce fever. Powder: Consume it in powdered form with honey to treat respiratory problems and digestion. Infusion: The infusion of Ativisha can treat diarrhea and can also improve immunity. Uses in Ayurvedic Formulations Ativisha is a part of many Ayurvedic formulations. Churna: Ativisha, in its powdered form, can be mixed with other herbs to be consumed directly or mixed with honey or water. Kwath: It is prepared by boiling the roots of Ativisha in water. Kwath helps, in addition, to cure the issues of digestion, fever, cough and cold, and, furthermore, other respiratory problems. Taila: Applying Ativishaoil helps get rid of pain and inflammation in joints and muscles. Precautions and Safety Though it has numerous health benefits, you must use Ativisha with caution. The herb is quite potent; therefore, it is best not to use it frequently. It is important to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor, primarily in the case of children and pregnant females. Moreover, it should be consumed in the prescribed amount and form to avoid any possibility of side effects. 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.

As an ayurvedic doctor, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate the complexities of diseases starting from gut issues, weight management, PCOS, type 2 Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease, etc., and adopting a healthy lifestyle with healthy food habits and regimes. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to make a difference in my patients’ lives—to offer medical expertise, compassion, empathy, and unwavering support on their journey to wellness. During this whole journey, I came across some patients suffering from RA, which is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. The symptoms include inflammation, pain, stiffness, and sometimes deformity of the joints. According to the Arthritis Foundation, about 1.3 million people worldwide are affected by RA, with women being more commonly affected than men. While conventional medicine offers various treatments to manage RA symptoms, many individuals seek alternative therapies like Ayurveda for relief and holistic management. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of managing rheumatoid arthritis with Ayurveda, covering everything from symptoms and types to treatment options and lifestyle adjustments. Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis is different from the more common osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, primarily affecting the synovium (the lining of the joints). This leads to inflammation, pain, and eventual damage to the joints and other organs. In Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as Amavata. Pain and swelling in the joints can be attributed to an issue with the Vata and Ama. The Amavata treatment, therefore, involves gentle care; moreover, it includes natural detoxification of the body. The treatments consist of fasting; furthermore, they involve improving digestion, and additionally, eliminating undigested food. Other forms of treatment, for instance, include the application of oils, the use of heat, and, furthermore, the elimination of bodily waste. Signs and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis The signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person; however, they may also change over time. But the general symptoms include: Joint pain and swelling, typically symmetrical (affecting both sides of the body) Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity Fatigue Fever Weight loss Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin) Joint deformity over time Different types of Rheumatoid Arthritis There are three main types of rheumatoid arthritis. Seropositive RA: This type is characterized by the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies in the blood. Seronegative RA: These antibodies are not present in this type, making diagnosis more challenging. Juvenile RA: This occurs in children under the age of 16 and can be either similar to adult RA or present with different symptoms. Ayurvedic Approach to Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Ayurveda, offers a holistic approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis. Ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis rebalances Doshas, enhances digestion, fights inflammation, and boosts the immune system. Early Signs of rheumatoid arthritis and Diagnosis Recognizing the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for early intervention and management. Some early signs include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. If you experience these symptoms, then, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Ayurvedic Diagnosis In Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is classified under “Amavata,” which translates to toxic arthritis. Diagnosis in Ayurveda involves assessing the individual’s constitution (Prakriti), current imbalances (Vikriti), and the nature of the disease manifestation. Ayurvedic Treatment Modalities Ayurvedic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis aim to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve joint function. Some key modalities include: Herbal Remedies Ayurvedic herbs like guggul, turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and also, they can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Panchakarma This detoxification therapy, in fact, involves various cleansing procedures to not only remove toxins from the body but also restore balance. Dietary Modifications An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Lifestyle Changes Yoga, meditation and gentle exercise can improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. Ayurvedic Therapies External therapies like oil massage (Abhyanga), herbal steam (Swedana), and poultice application (Pinda Sweda) can provide joint pain relief and stiffness. Do’s and Don’ts If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Here are some dos and don’ts that can help improve your condition. Do’s Consult an ayurvedic practitioner: Seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic doctor who can provide personalized treatment based on your constitution and imbalances. Follow a healthy diet: Emphasize on fresh, whole foods. Avoid processed, inflammatory foods like refined sugar, refined flour, and trans fats. Stay active: Engage in gentle exercise, yoga, or tai chi to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature to reduce stress levels and support overall health. Don’ts Overexertion: Avoid overworking or straining your joints, as this can exacerbate symptoms. Unhealthy habits: Minimize or eliminate habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can worsen inflammation and weaken the immune system. Ignoring symptoms: Pay attention to changes in your symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience worsening pain, swelling, or stiffness. While rheumatoid arthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach that addresses the root cause of the disease and aims to restore balance to the body. With Ayurveda, you can find relief from pain and inflammation and improve your overall quality of life. Remember, managing rheumatoid arthritis is a journey. Patience, consistency, and a proactive approach are key to achieving long-term wellness and vitality. 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 Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda: Balancing Dos and Don’ts

Recently, someone approached me asking about Ayurvedic treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis. This led me to realize that I haven’t discussed this health condition before. So, here’s some information about it! What is Ankylosing Spondylitis? Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition – a rare form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and large joints. It belongs to a group of conditions known as spondylarthritis that usually starts at the lower aback and eventually spreads up to the neck and other damaged joints. Although AS is less common than other forms of arthritis, it still affects a significant number of people worldwide. Studies show that approximately 0.1% to 0.5% of the global population suffers from the condition. Amavata is the word associated with rheumatoid arthritis in Ayurveda. However, the word also refers to other painful conditions as well and that includes Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ayurveda categorizes Ankylosing Spondylitis based on the body part it affects: Prishtagata (back), Katigata (lumbo-sacral), or Grivagata (pelvis or neck – cervical region) Amavata. The Symptoms Ankylosing Spondylitis often begins with inflammation in the joints where your spine connects to your pelvis, called the sacroiliac joints. This can make your lower back and hips feel painful and stiff. As it progresses, Ankylosing Spondylitis can affect other areas where your tendons and ligaments attach to bones. In some cases, it may even cause your vertebrae – the bones in your spine, to fuse together. In extreme situations, the condition may also result in your spine becoming hunched. Other signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis you might experience include: Neck feeling sore or stiff Pain in your shoulders Feeling pain and stiffness around your ribcage Pain in your hips or thighs Feeling pain in your feet, heels, or hands Pain that is worse in the morning or after sitting for a long time Noticing your spine becoming rigid and curving forward Feeling tired Swelling in your joints Ankylosing Spondylitis is frequently observed in males in their teenage and 20s, although it can affect individuals of any age. Women typically experience milder symptoms that often go unnoticed. Everyone’s experience with Ankylosing Spondylitis is different. Your symptoms might change faster or slower than someone else’s, and they might not be exactly the same. Your symptoms commonly come and go, with times of worsening followed by times of improvement. Ankylosing Spondylitis as per Ayurveda According to Ayurveda, Ankylosing Spondylitis happens when Ama (toxins) accumulate in the body due to the imbalance of the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ama, carried by the air element called Vayu, settles in places where the Kapha Dosha is prominent, mostly in the joints. It further moves to the body’s circulation channels and becomes the root cause of diseases. The aggravated Ama and Vata jointly enter the pelvic region (sacro-iliac and lumbo-sacral areas) causing stiffness and what is known as Amavata. The Treatment Modern medicine does not offer a permanent cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis. However, the symptoms can be suppressed using medications, physical therapy and even surgery. According to Ayurveda, Amavata is the most difficult to treat (Sa Kashta Sarva Roganam), especially when the condition is in its progressive state. However, it can be completely healed through lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, external and internal treatments and herbal medicines in the beginning stages. The treatment for Amavata involves practices like Langhana, Swedana (sudation) and Abhyanga that help alleviate pain and swelling by providing warmth, which helps reduce inflammation and stiffness in muscles. There are also Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Vasti (enema) that help manage Ankylosing Spondylitis by rejuvenating and eliminating toxins from the body. Regular exercise and adequate sleep are equally important to help you heal. Dietary changes include, for instance, avoiding inflammatory and trigger foods; moreover, it involves having foods that suit you. Also, herbal medicines are administered based on your Prakriti (body type), health conditions and Doshas. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. Ayurvedic treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis targets the root cause and imbalances, focusing on lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, herbal medicines, and Panchakarma therapy. As with any medical condition, it is essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor to ensure safety and efficacy. 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.

Inflammation is a symptom that is generally associated with a variety of health conditions. While the best way to reduce inflammation is to get the root cause treated, it is equally important to keep away from factors that induce inflammation. One of those factors is inflammatory foods. Three Inflammatory foods you must avoid Let us dig deeper into the three inflammatory foods that Ayurveda suggests you should avoid to reduce further complications. Curd Despite being a common ingredient, Ayurveda rules out curd for its heating nature. Curd is a Pitta-increasing food resulting in clogging of channels (Srotas) and increased Ama (toxins). The heaviness and stickiness of curd make it difficult to digest, especially for Kapha-dominant people causing joint stiffness and bloating. Black gram Black gram is also a heavy heating food which can aggravate Kapha and Pitta Dosha, and is not recommended for everyday consumption. Consuming black gram can lead to inflammation in a person with a tendency toward swelling, joint problems and slow digestion. Eggplant Eggplant can cause channel blockages due to its unwholesome and inflammatory properties, so it is not recommended for regular use. It is heating and creates an imbalance of Doshas; especially in those with a Pitta constitution. As a result, it aggravates joint issues, potentially increasing discomfort for individuals with arthritis or inflammation-related conditions. An individual who exercises daily and has good Agni (digestive fire) can moderately consume eggpant. However, if you have health conditions, Dosha imbalance, improper lifestyle or impaired digestion, it is better to avoid it. Inflammation — The Ayurvedic Perspective Ayurveda believes that the balance of Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—is essential for health. The imbalance of any of these Doshas can contribute to inflammation on one or more parts of your body. In Ayurveda, inflammation or swelling is referred to as “Shotha” or “Shopha.” The condition is classified into different types, mainly based on their causes as per Charaka Samhita. त्रयः शोथा भवन्ति वातपित्तश्लेष्मनिमित्ताः, ते पुनर्द्विविधा निजागन्तुभेदेन There are three kinds of swelling: Vataja – caused by the imbalance of Vata Dosha Pittaja – caused by the imbalance of Pitta Dosha Kaphaja – caused by the imbalance of Kapha Dosha These can be further categorised into: Nija – caused by internal factors, such as vitiation of Doshas Agantuja – caused by external factors, such as wounds and fractures More Inflammatory Foods To Watch Out For The list of inflammatory foods do not end with the above three. There are more foods that you can avoid for better health. Refined sugar Ayurveda classifies refines sugar as a Tamasic food, which is devoid of good positive life energy, leading to Ama (toxins) accumulation. This drains our energy and clogs the channels in our body. Processed foods and fast foods These foods are heavy to digest, thus leading to the accumulation of Ama in the body and Dosha imbalances. Also, they do nothing to support Agni (digestive fire) and promote inflammation. Alcohol and caffeine Alcohol increases Pitta, causing warmth, redness and swelling, and can put stress on the liver. Caffeine is a stimulant that can irritate both the digestive and nervous systems, leading to dehydration and worsening inflammation. Inflammation is not a disease, but a symptom. If you have a health condition with inflmmation in the body, consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor and get the root cause treated. And yes, stay away from anything that can worsen your condition, that including the inflammatory foods listed above. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who is always glad to helps you . If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit.

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Tag: inflammation

9 Essential Ayurvedic Herbs

Ativisha Health Benefits

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda: Balancing Dos and Don’ts

Ankylosing Spondylitis – The Ayurvedic Perspective

Inflammatory Foods You Should Avoid for Better Health

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