The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine identifies Ayurveda as one of the oldest systems of medicine on Earth. In India--Ayurveda's place of origin--these ancient healing techniques are still used by more than 80 percent of the population. In the Western world, where practitioners classify Ayurveda as a form of alternative medicine, the herbs used in the practice are steadily gaining popularity. Early scientific evidence supports many of the traditional uses associated with Ayurvedic herbs. Consult your health care provider before using any form of complementary or alternative medicine, particularly if you have a serious medical condition.
Ashwagandha
The herb ashwagandha has been nicknamed "Indian ginseng"; its use in Ayurveda closely mirrors ginseng's use in traditional Chinese medicine. Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen because it enables the body to adapt to stress with fewer fluctuations in immune response, mood, sleep or sex drive.
Boswellia
A traditional remedy for arthritis and joint injuries, boswellia may help to reduce inflammation and modulate the autoimmune response associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Guggul
A botanical relative of boswellia, guggul contains phytosterols that help to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol levels. Guggul also contains anti-inflammatory compounds.
Gymnema
Ayurvedic practitioners commonly recommend the herb gymnema for the treatment of diabetes and hyperglycemia. Medicinal compounds in gymnema can reduce blood-glucose levels while partially blocking the taste buds' response to sugar.
Holy Basil
Also known as tulsi, holy basil has been hailed as a virtual panacea. Holistic health care providers recommend holy basil as a treatment for respiratory infections, mood disturbances and pain.
Neem
A relative of mahogany, neem offers a number of important benefits for human health. Neem oil is potently antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory; it also soothes inflammation, dry skin and itching.
References
- NCCAM: Ayurveda
- karta Purkh Singh Khalsa: The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs. Lotus Press, 2009.
- The Ayurvedic Center: Historical Uses of Ayurvedic Herbs
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