Herbs are a critical component of Ayurvedic healing. Traditional Ayurvedic herbs can assist us in promoting wellness, preventing disease, and optimizing our overall well-being. Maintaining a balanced mental state during these unpredictable times is becoming increasingly important. We all could use some assistance keeping our peace, and herbs are here to help.
Try some of these Ayurvedic herbs to promote peace and mental well-being.
Brahmi or Gotu Kola is considered a brain tonic in Ayurveda. It strengthens memory and intellect, supports concentration and a balanced emotional state. It is also considered an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to the body's needs, promoting healthy energy in the day and deep sleep in the evening and supporting the body's reactions to internal and external stressors. It effectively soothes excess pitta and Vata, although it can aggravate Vata in excess. Brahmi can be consumed in powder or capsule form. Start with a tsp in hot water or almond milk, or explore capsule options.
Tulsi, or holy basil, is also an adaptogenic herb and is considered the most sacred herb on the planet in ancient Ayurvedic texts for its array of healing benefits. It helps the body cope with stress and supports mental clarity and focus. It is also a profoundly calming herb and pacifies excess Vata and Kapha. Tulsi promotes prana, or life force in the body, and is an excellent option to promote overall well-being. Tulsi can be taken in capsule form as a supplement or tea, using the dried leaves to steep in hot water.
Ashwagandha has gained immense popularity in recent years as an adaptogenic powerhouse. Ashwagandha or Withania Somnifera is an adaptogen that calms the mind, promotes restful sleep, improves energy during the day, and supports vitality, amongst other benefits. The root of Ashwagandha is the part of the plant consumed, and the powder is often mixed into beverages combined with other herbs. It can also be taken as a supplement. It is a deeply rejuvenating herb and is a great option to pacify excess Vata.
Mucuna or Kapikacchu is an adaptogen commonly used to calm the nervous system, support the reproductive system and promote mental well-being. Mucuna has been nicknamed "the dopamine bean" and is a natural source of levodopa, a precursor to dopamine, making it highly effective mood support. It is beneficial in soothing excess Pitta and Kapha. You can take mucuna in liquid, powder, or supplement form.
Ojas in Ayurveda means vitality and is the ultimate life-giving force for the mind and the body. There are certain foods and drinks we can consume to boost our Ojas. Here is a recipe for an herbal Ojas drink to support mental health and vitality.
Ingredients:
Directions:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend on high for around a minute—option to strain. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
We don't have to try to navigate maintaining our mental wellness alone. There are practices, tools, and remedies that can help support us on our journey. Incorporate these Ayurvedic herbs into your routine to boost your mood and emotional well-being.
*Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health programs.
Join Chopra for the Journey to Well-being, a brand new guided experience in self-discovery, with free monthly programs for mind, body, and spirit. Register now!
Try some of these Ayurvedic herbs to promote peace and mental well-being.
Brahmi
Brahmi or Gotu Kola is considered a brain tonic in Ayurveda. It strengthens memory and intellect, supports concentration and a balanced emotional state. It is also considered an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to the body's needs, promoting healthy energy in the day and deep sleep in the evening and supporting the body's reactions to internal and external stressors. It effectively soothes excess pitta and Vata, although it can aggravate Vata in excess. Brahmi can be consumed in powder or capsule form. Start with a tsp in hot water or almond milk, or explore capsule options.
Tulsi
Tulsi, or holy basil, is also an adaptogenic herb and is considered the most sacred herb on the planet in ancient Ayurvedic texts for its array of healing benefits. It helps the body cope with stress and supports mental clarity and focus. It is also a profoundly calming herb and pacifies excess Vata and Kapha. Tulsi promotes prana, or life force in the body, and is an excellent option to promote overall well-being. Tulsi can be taken in capsule form as a supplement or tea, using the dried leaves to steep in hot water.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has gained immense popularity in recent years as an adaptogenic powerhouse. Ashwagandha or Withania Somnifera is an adaptogen that calms the mind, promotes restful sleep, improves energy during the day, and supports vitality, amongst other benefits. The root of Ashwagandha is the part of the plant consumed, and the powder is often mixed into beverages combined with other herbs. It can also be taken as a supplement. It is a deeply rejuvenating herb and is a great option to pacify excess Vata.
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna or Kapikacchu is an adaptogen commonly used to calm the nervous system, support the reproductive system and promote mental well-being. Mucuna has been nicknamed "the dopamine bean" and is a natural source of levodopa, a precursor to dopamine, making it highly effective mood support. It is beneficial in soothing excess Pitta and Kapha. You can take mucuna in liquid, powder, or supplement form.
Try this... Herbal Ojas Drink
Ojas in Ayurveda means vitality and is the ultimate life-giving force for the mind and the body. There are certain foods and drinks we can consume to boost our Ojas. Here is a recipe for an herbal Ojas drink to support mental health and vitality.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond milk
- Three pitted dates
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Brahmi
- ¼ tsp ashwagandha
Directions:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend on high for around a minute—option to strain. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
We don't have to try to navigate maintaining our mental wellness alone. There are practices, tools, and remedies that can help support us on our journey. Incorporate these Ayurvedic herbs into your routine to boost your mood and emotional well-being.
*Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health programs.
Join Chopra for the Journey to Well-being, a brand new guided experience in self-discovery, with free monthly programs for mind, body, and spirit. Register now!