ADAPTOGENIC HERBS MOST COMMONLY USED IN AYURVEDA
adaptogens help modify the body’s reaction to stress, both environmental and internal
- Amalaki.Amalaki (Embelica officinalis), also commonly called amla, is known as “mother” or “nurse” in Sanskrit. It is known to be a super antioxidant and tonic for general debility and weakness. It pacifies sadhaka pitta, thus influencing clarity and calmness of mind. It is a rejuvenative as well as an adaptogen that is said to slow the aging process, increase virility, and promote immune function.
- Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is also known as “Indian ginseng,” though it is not related to the ginseng family and most likely gets this name in reference to its energy promoting qualities.Somnifera is translated as “sleep-inducing,” reflecting its relaxing and calming properties that bring us energy by supporting deeper rest.
- Bacopa. Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) is used to aid in recovery from exhaustion, stress, and debility with aggravation of vata. It is often paired with brahmi/gotu kola as a mighty duo in supporting cognitive function, including memory and concentration. It eases tension and helps induce restful sleep.
- Brahmi/Gotu Kola. In the mind, brahmi (Centella asiatica) improves concentration, intelligence, memory, and alertness. In the body, brahmi nourishes majja dhatu, supporting the brain and nervous system, and helping the body cope with stress.
- Guduchi. Guduchi (Tinosporia cordifolia) is fondly called “the one who protects the body.” It benefits all conditions of aggravated ranjaka pitta and pitta in the blood. It helps clear pitta toxins and uric acid, boosting the immune system. It is calming to vata and the nervous system in general.
- Licorice. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) benefits all seven tissue layers, or dhatus. It is calming and cooling for pitta while also nourishing for vata and majja dhatu. Licorice has a special affinity for the lungs and mucous membranes. It acts as a strong adrenal tonic, thus supporting the body’s stress response, and its sattvic nature is calming to the mind.
- Moringa. Moringa (Moringa oleifera), largely due to its impressive nutrient content, is helpful for sleep, the heart, kidneys, liver, blood, and the pancreas. Moringa supports healthy energy levels and restoration of the body’s tissues. For more information on moringa’s nutrient content and health benefits, take a peek at Moringa Oleifera—A Superfood for All Ages.
- Mucuna or Kapikacchu. As a natural source of L-dopa, a precursor to dopamine, mucuna (Mucuna pruriens) has a special affinity for the nervous system. Also known as kapikacchu, this herb is both strengthening and calming, and it is considered one of the best tonics for the reproductive system, both male and female.
- Tulsi or Holy Basil. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is so highly revered that it has been referred to as “a goddess incarnated in plant form.” Tulsi is said to increase prana, or life force. It is stimulating for the digestion and good for vata in the digestive process. Tulsi is beneficial for all three doshas, with a special affinity for the lungs and rasa dhatu.Research has found that tulsi helps protect organs and tissues against physical stress, among other benefits.
- Shatavari. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is affectionately referred to as “the one who has 100 husbands.” It is to the female reproductive system as ashwagandha is to the male reproductive system, considered a rejuvenative, or rasayana, as well as an adaptogen. It is especially effective for the tissues of the lungs, stomach, kidneys, and sexual organs.
- Shilajit. Technically not an herb, shilajit is an adaptogenic mineral pitch found in the arduous conditions of the Himalayas. Its high mineral content makes it beneficial for many of the body’s tissues, especially the kidneys and the urinary and reproductive systems.
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