Ayurvedic Herbs As Holistic Medication
Before the advent of modern medicine as we know it many cultures
developed natural medicines called herbs. These cures usually
came from plants and other natural substances which today can
often be found in the kitchen.
Ayurvedic Medicine is a tradition of treating people
holistically that has a history of treating disease and
preventing illness through herbs and even some of your every day
spices found in the kitchen.
A number of Indian plants or herbs and spices have found their
way into the United States. Ginger, Gotu Kola, Gymnema,
Cinnamon, Boswellia or Frankincense and East Indian Globe
Thistle are just a few of the Indian herbs that can be found in
your local herbalist store or even at the grocery store.
Ginger used as a digestive aid this spice has been recommended
to cure gas, colic and even decrease heart burn. It is also
known as a tonic to increase vigor and as an anti-depressant. In
India this herb is also known as Sunthi or Adrak
Gotu Kola Listed as a common herb in India this herb should not
be confused with Kola Nut which is a different plant. In
Ayurvedic herbalism this plant has many uses including wound
healing, skin disorders, sedative effects and even seems
promising as a blood pressure lowering herb.
Gymnema Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar has received a lot of press
because it appears to block sugars. The first noticeable effect
when a small amount is placed on the tongue is that the person
stops being able to taste sweets. The theory is that it has a
similar blocking effect internally. The actual effect may be
that because you don't "taste" the sugar it doesn't trigger that
"sweet tooth effect". When used with diabetics a decrease in
blood sugar and insulin levels was noted with this Indian herb.
Cinnamon In addition to being a key ingredient in mom's cinnamon
rolls this spice has been used as a stimulant for hundreds of
years by the Ayurvedic Herbalist. It is used commonly to
alleviate tooth ache, rheumatism and as an astringent. The
essential oil seems to have marked anti-bacterial and
anti-fungal properties also.
Boswellia Also known as Frankincense this gummy residue is used
externally for its anti-inflammatory properties and as an
expectorant and immune system booster when taken internally.
This tree is native to India and the Middle East.
East India Globe Thistle considered a tonic or energizer this
herb also seems to have anti-diabetic qualities and may be found
in compounds that promote anti-oxidant effects or that reduce
blood sugar.
The list of Ayurvedic herbs is much longer than just these few.
It is noteworthy that many of these herbs are also spices or
foods such as apricot or licorice. The Ayurvedic tradition
promotes the belief that food plays an important role in curing
disease and promoting wellness. The precept that "we are what we
eat" is not a new one it seems.
Taking herbs in place of medications is not without some risk.
Many herbs contain potent substances which can create side
effects as well as interactions with medications.
A common example is ginseng. Ginseng interacts with coumadin (a
common blood thinner) and causes your blood to become even
thinner.
Anytime you are considering taking an herb or supplement you
should research the effects and side effects and as always if
you are taking medications you should consult with your doctor
before starting any herb or supplement.