Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old medical system native to the Indian subcontinent. According to Holistic Online, the hallmarks of the herbal-based practice are preventing disease, extending lifespans and rejuvenating body systems as a way to not only heal the body, but achieve harmony within one's life. Losing weight and resolving issues related to obesity satisfy all three of ayurveda's characteristics.
Turmeric
Dr. Deepak Chopra, via the online publication "Holistic Online." states the presence of "ama" as being a roadblock to weight loss. In ayurvedics, ama is defined as the result of incomplete digestion, which blocks the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Turmeric is one of the most versatile herbs used in ayurvedic medicine, largely due to the properties of its active ingredient, curcumin. The National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus writes that turmeric has been used to resolve feelings of low energy, and studies have shown that it may reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.
Guggul
Another popular herb in ayurveda, guggul is used in the treatment of weight loss. Guggul, also known by its scientific name Commiphora mukul, has been shown to be an effective cholesterol reducer. A 2007 article in "Cardiovascular Drug Review" examined guggul therapy in the treatment of high cholesterol and atherosclerosis. The study showed that guggulsterone, a derivative of the guggul plant, inhibits inflammation caused by these conditions. High cholesterol and arterial blockages inhibit weight loss and, often times, make it easier for the body to gain weight more rapidly.
Ginger
According to Holistic Online, enhancing the digestive fire is an important step in ayurvedic weight loss. Ginger is one of the herbs with ignites the fire. Native to India and China, ginger reduces acidity in the stomach. Safe Slimming, a British herbal medicine website, reports that it increases digestive activity and speeds metabolism. Accelerated metabolism assists the body in burning and digesting fat.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is most commonly used to flavor candy. In ayurveda, licorice, known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is used to strengthen and stimulate the adrenal glands. Holistic Online reports that the adrenals secrete enzymes, which assist the body in regulating blood sugar. The body converts sugar in the bloodstream into body fat, thus increasing body weight.
Shilajit
Shilajit is the dirt and moss that collects and forms between rocks in the Himalayan Mountains. This compound, according to the Infinity Foundation, has been used for thousands of years as a weight-loss formula. The original ayurvedic manual, Susruta Samhita, recommends giving enemas of shilajit as a cure for obesity. Holistic Online reports that shilajit has been used extensively in ayurvedics to reduce fat, promote mineral transference and stimulate the immune system.
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