Ayurvedic herbs have been used for centuries to treat the body naturally. This holistic approach to health originated in India. It’s a complete medical system that is now practiced worldwide.
There are a few “mega-star” Ayurvedic herbs that you’ve probably heard of, like turmeric or ginger. Most people are familiar with these. There are also some “rising stars” slowly gaining popularity amongst herbal supplements. Ashwagandha and ginkgo biloba are among them.
And while some Ayurvedic herbs are becoming widely known and even popular, there are still many more Ayurvedic herbs to discover. So here’s a list of 50 Ayurvedic herbs to know.
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1. Turmeric (Curcumin)
An anti-inflammatory Ayurvedic herb which supports metabolism and the digestive system, turmeric may help with infections, fevers and high cholesterol.
While you can gain some benefits consuming foods containing raw or powdered turmeric, for the best effect you need the potent isolated form in a higher quantity to get significant health benefits. Turmeric capsules containing 500mg of curcumin are needed to truly reduce inflammation.
READ MORE: Easy Turmeric Latte Recipe Plus Benefits, Golden Milk For Arthritis (Turmeric Milk For Arthritis), Heal With Haldi: Turmeric Milk Recipe
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon may help reduce headache pain, stomach problems and colitis. It’s an anti-fungal agent supporting the immune and digestive system.
3. Triphala
Triphala cleanses, replenishes and nourishes the digestive, respiratory, circulatory and genitourinary system.
READ MORE: Triphala Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Triphala Dosage, Churna, Guggul, Triphala For Weight Loss
4. Fenugreek
Fenugreek nourishes, soothes and aids the digestive system, promoting a healthier libido and improved skin.
5. Guggulu
Guggulu supports a healthier immune system through its powerful detoxifying and rejuvenating qualities.
6. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha may rid the body of fatigue, fight skin disease and support infertility issues. It supports the immune, endocrine and reproductive systems.
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7. Guduchi
Guduchi eliminates unwanted body toxins supporting a healthier immune function and better skin tone.
READ MORE: Guduchi Powder, Benefits, Side Effects, Contraindications + More
8. Amla
Amla encourages a healthier digestive system, balances blood sugar levels and detoxifies the body.
READ MORE: Amla: The Sour Anti-Aging Ayurvedic Super Fruit + Amla Recipes
9. Frankincense (Boswellia Serrata)
Frankincense supports the joints, and heals, soothes and promotes improved connective tissues.
10. Gymnema Sylvestre (Miracle Fruit)
Gymnema may help reduce sweet cravings. It supports healthier blood glucose levels. It supports the functioning of the pancreas.
READ MORE: The Best Food For Diabetics According To Ayurveda
11. Ginger
Ginger improves overall health and well-being. It promotes better digestion and joint support.
12. Black Pepper
Black pepper is an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. It treats colds, flu, aches, and pains alongside digestive and arthritic conditions.
13. Licorice (Yashtimadhu)
An anti-inflammatory and analgesic, licorice supports pain and a variety of diseases. It encourages bodily functions.
14. Vidari
Vidari supports male and female reproductive systems, encouraging healthier menstruation, fertility, and vitality.
READ MORE: Ayurveda On Sex: Health Benefits, Seasonal Sex, Post-Sex Regimen, Ayurvedic Aphrodisiacs
15. Masha
Masha boosts overall body energy and muscle strength. It may help combat sexual impotence and may aid low sperm count.
16. Bala
Bala strengthens and energizes the body with soothing properties, calming the nerves and aiding muscle tension.
17. Pippali
Pippali rejuvenates, strengthens and nourishes the body by supporting healthy circulation and blood, and promoting a healthier liver.
18. Vidanga (Embelia Ribes)
Vidanga supports the body’s natural defenses, strengthening the digestive system and eliminating unnecessary toxins.
19. Vrikshamla (Garcinia Cambogia)
Vrikshamla settles the metabolism supporting a better digestive system, conditioning the body to cope with diet plans.
20. Bacopa
Bacopa rejuvenates the mind and nervous system, cleansing and calming while supporting mental clarity.
21. Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)
Haritaki removes toxins from the body. It rejuvenates and nourishes the colon, liver, spleen and lungs, promoting a better digestive system.
22. Bibhitaki
Bibhitaki eliminates unwanted toxins in organs and tissues producing a healthier body and mind.
23. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi promotes optimal heart and lung functioning, supporting the digestive, respiratory and immune system through healthy circulation.
READ MORE: The Sacred Benefits Of Growing Tulsi, Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi Benefits, Uses, Research, Contraindications, How To Take Tulsi
24. Moringa
Moringa is an instant energy booster. It may help in lowering blood pressure, aiding sleep and easing anxiety.
25. Coriander
Coriander may be supportive for IBS, bloating, allergies and respiratory problems while supporting the
digestive system and blood purification.
READ MORE: 5 Bloating Remedies From Ancient Ayurvedic Wellness
26. Saffron
Saffron may help relieve cramps, erectile problems and urination problems, while boosting the immune, digestive, reproductive and central nervous system.
27. Manjistha
Manjistha is known as a cleanser. It supports a healthy flow of blood and urine by removing unnecessary toxins and excessive heat from the body.
READ MORE: Manjistha For Skin, Uses, Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Manjistha Tea Benefits, How To Take Manjistha, Manjistha Side Effects
28. Neem
An effective Ayurvedic herb for detoxification, neem may help cleanse the liver, purify the blood and support the body’s immune system.
READ MORE: Neem, Ayurveda’s Favorite Remedy For Inflammation
29. Brahmi
Brahmi promotes a healthy brain and nervous system, supporting memory, concentration, and intelligence.
30. Ajwain
Ajwain is a strong cleanser. It stimulates the appetite while enhancing the digestive system, preventing gas and stomach discomfort.
31. Cardamom
Cardamom encourages a healthier appetite while promoting fresher breath and cleaner lungs.
32. Shatavari
Shatavari may support fertility and a better immune and digestion system.
33. Cumin
Cumin is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It supports the digestive system and is an effective spice for detoxification.
34. Garlic
Garlic is used as an aphrodisiac. It also acts as a stimulant to the heart and liver and is an eye and hair tonic.
35. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is renowned for treating various skin complaints and infections, such as sores and ulcers.
36. Garden Mint (Putiha)
Mint may help relieve joint pain and indigestion as well as coughs, fevers and bouts of diarrhea.
READ MORE: Ayurvedic Medicinal Herbs You Can Grow (Garden Herbs List)
37. Celery Seed (Ajmoda)
Known to improve the digestive system, celery seed works on relieving abdominal pain and bloating.
38. Cloves (Lavanga)
Cloves are known to be beneficial for eliminating the discomfort of tooth pain. They also may help relieve coughs, colds, bad breath and sore throats.
READ MORE: Will Oil Pulling Help A Toothache?
39. Rauwolfia
Rauwolfia is effective at reducing fever and lowering blood pressure. It is also an excellent treatment for eliminating insomnia.
READ MORE: Will Ashwagandha Help You Sleep?, 5 Bedtime Routines For Adults (Inspiration For A Good Night’s Sleep), 21 Sleep Inducing Healthy Foods And Beverages For Insomnia
40. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial most commonly used to heal wounds and relieve swelling and itching.
41. Curry Leaf
Curry leaf is excellent at targeting spasms and seizures. It reduces fever, clears the blood and is beneficial for those at high risk of heart attacks.
42. Myrrh
Myrrh is beneficial for the nervous system, circulatory system and rheumatic problems, eliminating
stomach and kidney pain.
43. Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba has many uses. It may improve memory, circulation, varicose veins, mood swings and even tinnitus.
READ MORE: How To Protect Your Memory After 50
44. Sea Buckthorn
A rejuvenating and revitalizing Ayurvedic herb, sea buckthorn treats the body inside and out, improving overall health.
45. Thumbai (Leakas Aspera)
Thumbai is effective at relieving bites and stings. It also reduces fever, and supports sinus problems and headaches.
READ MORE: Sinus Infection (Sinnusitis), Symptoms, Causes + Natural Remedies, Neti Pots For Colds, Sinus Infections + Tinnitis
46. Black Catechu
Black Catechu is used externally for various skin conditions. Internally, it is used to help improve the health of the liver. It may support lung conditions and diarrhea.
47. Nut Grass (Cyperus Rotundus)
Nut grass is a lower abdomen regulator which works to support comfort, eliminating abdominal pain.
48. Wood Apple (Bael, Aegle Marmelos)
Wood apple is a stimulant. It supports healthy stool formation and bowel functions, stimulating the digestive system.
49. Veldt Grape (Devil’s Backbone, Cissus Quadrangular)
Veldt grape promotes healthy bones while decreasing pain and injuries. It also encourages healthy weight loss.
READ MORE: Easy 4 Step Ayurvedic Weight Loss Plan + Home Remedies For Over Weight
50. Cassia Fistula
Cassia fistula supports common health ailments like colds, fevers, and skin disorders as well as constipation and internal disorders.
Please note that these are just general properties of Ayurvedic herbs. When using them for prevention or to support the healing processes, it’s extremely important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. An expert can guide you on the recommended quantities and combinations. Stay healthy!