Being a Yogi is a commitment to the Self and to living a life that is lived with the essence of health and wellness. Food and lifestyle play a major role in reaching the complete effects of a regular yoga practice, wherein one ceases to be as effective with the absence of another. Experts proclaim that a healthy body and mind is 75% Diet and 25% Exercise. Even though the percentage varies according to the body type and its constitution, nonetheless, the involvement of a healthy Ayurvedic Diet in the span of a Yogi’s life should ideally not be neglected. Since time can recall, the healing system of Ayurveda Science has been employing the use of designated herbs in treating various disorders and for promoting an overall healthy body and soul. These Herbs are countless in number with their specific uses and benefits. While certain Vedic herbs are just so incredibly remedial that they reserve a permanent space in the kitchens of various yogis and even regular people.
As a Yogi, if you are looking for the essential herbs to include in your kitchen and your diet, here are 7 Must-have herbs to check on your list:
Ginger Root:
A powerful Ayurvedic herb with anti-inflammatory properties, ginger root is highly useful in treating symptoms of dyspepsia, bloating, flatulence, travel sickness, nausea, and arthritis. It is also effective in reducing the LDL cholesterol (bad) and poor blood pressure. This herb is also used to treat menstrual cramps in women for ages. Consume it in a raw form or add it to a curry for gaining its benefits.
Chamomile:
Chamomile is a magical herb blessed with anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, analgesic properties and is beneficial for a variety of purposes for the skin, hair, age, and hormones. A cup of chamomile tea at night works like a charm to induce sleep and is a proven Vedic remedy for those suffering from insomnia. It also protects the skin from irritation, tan, pimples, and acne. Additional, Chamomile is also highly useful in treating digestive disorders, reversing the skin aging, inducing detoxification and relaxation.
Rosemary:
This green herb is a Mediterranean native and is an excellent source of iron, vitamins, and calcium. Used in multiple varieties of continental culinary preparations, this herb is not just used for its beauty, aroma, and fragrance, but also for improving digestion, enhancing focus, improving cerebral functions, providing anti-oxidants to the body, and more.
Coriander:
The aromatic leaves of cilantro and coriander are a regular garnish for a variety of Indian and various other culinary delights. Useful in lowering LDL cholesterol, promoting healthy bowel movements, lowering blood sugar levels, coriander also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties making it ideal for treating mouth boils and pimples. Other than the numerous properties of coriander, it also contains iron and is helpful in treating anemia. It is also used in the treatment of conjunctivitis.
Holy Basil (Tulsi):
Holy Basil is a sacred herb in the Indian context. However, its presence is not limited to a prayer offering. The Holy Basil, a.k.a Tulsi is highly useful in treating symptoms of fever, asthma, respiratory issues, cardiac issues, and stress. Additionally, consume it orally in a chewable form to have a fresh breath in the morning.
Thyme:
Thyme is another sacred herb that was used for protection against ‘Black Death’ in the ancient times. In the Ayurvedic context, this herb is one of the most perfunctory herbs ever discovered with a range of antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-carcinogenic, and insecticidal properties. Use the thyme leaves as a garnish in a raw state to find relief from a variety of skin problems, flu-like symptoms, digestive disorders, and respiratory disorders. It is also prescribed as a diuretic to those who have an issue with retaining water in their body.
Indian Gooseberry (Amla):
Of the countless benefits of this herb rich in Vitamin C, Amla contains anti-inflammatory properties as well. In addition to aiding in regulating digestion due to the presence of fiber in this herb, it is also helpful in treating mouth ulcers, whooping cough, and cold. When used on the scalp on a regular basis, the herb works as an ideal anti-dandruff medicine. It is also used as a powerful ingredient for weight loss.
Include these herbs in your yogic diet preparations regularly for extracting the most rewarding benefits for your body and mind.
Author Bio:
Manmohan Singh is a passionate Yogi, Yoga Teacher and a Traveller in India. He provides Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India. He loves writing and reading the books related to yoga, health, nature and the Himalayas.
Website: https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/
