Health Benefits of the Major Componenets used in Ayurvedic Concepts' Natural Formulas

Achillea millefolium , Linn. ( Biranjasipha or Yarrow )

A stimulative tonic and carminative ( that helps expel gas from the stomach and intestines). It has a very healing and soothing effect on the mucous membranes. Aqeous extracts are thought to be good for thinning hair.

Aconitum palmatum , Linn. ( Bikhma )

Bikhma is a bitter tonic that is generally used in conjunction with pepper and is a known support of bowels' health.

Argyreia speciosa , Sweet. ( Vridha daraka, Elephant creeper )

The roots and seeds have been used as a support of the nervous system, as a geriatric tonic and mild aphrodisiac. The whole plant is reported to have purifying properties. It has also been given to help maintain healthy joints.

Asparagus racemosus, Willd. ( Shatavari, Wild asparagus )

Shatavari is the main Ayurvedic rejuvenative for women. It both nourishes and cleanses the blood and the female reproductive organs. It is recommended for menopause or for women who have had hysterectomies, as it supplies many female hormones. It also helps maintain urinary tract's health and strengthens the immune system.

Bacopa monniera, Pennel ( Brahmi )

Brahmi, an important component in MindCare, is perhaps the main rejuvenating herb for the nerves and brain cells and therefore has played a very important role in Ayurvedic therapies. Countless studies have shown Brahmi to increase intelligence, longevity and memory and to decrease senility and aging. It has tranquilizing effects but, unlike synthetic products which often have side effects of dulling the mind, Brahmi actually improves mental clarity. That combination of relaxation and improved mental acuity makes Brahmi, an logical component of MindCare.

Capparis spinosa, Linn. (Himsra, Capers)

Capers are an hepatic stimulant that has been used for improving the functional efficiency of the liver. Intensive recent experimental work also confirms its protective action on the histological architecture of the liver and its positive effect on liver glycogen and serum proteins.

Centella asiatica ( Mandukaparani, Gotu-kola or Indian Pennywort)

Gotu-kola is famous for improving memory and attention as well as a calming agent. It has been noted from many studies for its effect on vein structure. French researchers found evidence that Gotu-kola significantly increases the production of collagen, the key to the synthesis of the connective tissues surrounding the veins. Its usefulness has also been claimed for wound healing. Perhaps the most important feature linked to improved collagen production is the protection of brain capillaries that creates its main mental alertness benefit.

Cichorium intybus, Linn. (Kasani , Wild Chicory )

Chicory is also a powerful hepatic stimulant which increases bile-secretion, promotes digestion and enhances the action of capers. Experimental evidence has been obtained on its action on liver glycogen. Recent studies have shown inhibition of free radical induced DNA damage.

Chayavanprash

Chyavanprash is one of the best known Ayurvedic components. It is itself a complex formula, an herbal concentrate that, for centuries, has been the geriatric tonic par excellence. It is the cornerstone of an all around health regimen in Ayurvedic medicine. Chyavanprash is a compound of choice extracts from more than 40 plants and contains a large percentage of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis or Indian Gooseberry), a very strong rejuvenative which is very rich natural source of vitamin C.

Commiphora mukul, Hooker (Guggul)

Guggul, the major ingredient in JointCare and ImmunoCare, is a resin that has been regarded as a sovereign remedy in Ayurvedic medicine, known to increase white blood cell count and to possess strong immunomodulating properties. Guggul may have been one of the very first "broad spectrum" health product with a wide range of benefits. A broad mode of action makes this product very helpful not only in protecting against the common cold but also in various other conditions. It has been shown to have remarkable properties as an adjuvant of other types of therapies. In addition, Guggul has long been known to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, while maintaining or improving the HDL to LDL ratio. Guggul has been the subject of hundreds of clinical studies, some of them double-blind.

Crocus sativus, Linn. ( Kumkuma, Saffron)

Saffron contains a number of carotenoid pigments generally known for their antioxidant properties. The flower is also reported to provide a natural source of two B vitamins, Riboflavin and Thiamine. Saffron is a mild stimulant and is considered a promoter of the immune defenses in Ayurvedic Therapies.

Cyperus scariosus, Br. ( Nagarmusta, Umbrella's edge )

Nagarmusta is mostly useful in supporting healthy genito-urinary system. Studies are also being conducted on hepatoprotective properties.

Didymocarpus pedicellata ( Shilapushpa )

Diuretic that has been shown to be effective in supporting a healthy urinary tract.

Emblica officinalis, Gaertn. ( Amla or Amalaki, Indian gooseberry )

Amalaki is referred to in ancient texts as the best medicine to prevent aging. Amalaki is a very strong rejuvenative which is believed to be the richest natural source of antioxidant vitamin C, with up to 720 mg/100g of fresh pulp or up to 900 mg/100g of pressed juice of a heat-stable form which does not lose its value through processing. Although only one inch in diameter, the Amalaki fruit has the same antiscorbutic value as two oranges. Amalaki is also part of Triphalpa, a cpmbination of three fruits, widely used for a broad spectrum of benefits.

Garcinia cambodia, Desr. ( Garcinia )

Garcinia is a plant that grows along the Malabar Coast of India and in Tahiland. The extract of fruit has been used in cooking to flavor meat and seafood. The most recent studies have shown that fruits contain biologically active compounds (-) Hydroxy Citric Acid. HCA is known to inhibit synthesis of lipids and fatty acids. HCA inhibits the enzyme ATP - Citrate lyaze that leads to reduce production of acetyl CoA, which is a key substance in fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Therefore, formation of LDL and triglycerides is lower too. It also suppresses appetite by promoting sythesis of glycogen. That way the brain gets signals of fullness and satisfaction sooner. Garcinia also contains significant amounts of vitamin C and also has been used as a heart tonic.

Glycyrrhiza glabra, Linn. ( Yashti-madhu, Licorice )

Licorice is a versatile medicine in both India and China, for gastrointestinal health. It is a mild laxative which soothes and tones the mucous membranes and relieves muscle spasms. Clinical studies have proven Licorice extracts to be as effective as well known synthetic alternatives. Licorice is rich in flavonoids and is currently under intense investigation as an antioxidant and as a cancer-protecting botanical boosting certain immune functions such as interferon production. Its mode of action is as an anti-mutagen, preventing damage to genetic material which can eventually result in cancer.

Gymnema sylvestre, Linn. ( Meshashringi, Gurmara )

Gurmara, whose Sanskrit name means literally "sugar destroyer", has been shown in vitro to have a glycolytic action and reduce the strength of a glucose solution. It has been used in Ayurveda to regulate sugar metabolism for several centuries. It increases insulin production, possibly by repair or regeneration of pancreas cells, the site of insulin production. Another property is of abolishing the taste of sugar, so that Gurmara has been effective to suppress and neutralize the craving for sweets.

Melia azadirachta Linn. ( Neem, Persian lilac )

Neem, one of the most famous plants found throughout India, has strong health maintaining activity. It has been used as a tonic and astringent that promotes healing. The extract has shown anti-spasmodic action also. It can be used in the form of powder, liquid extract, or decoction. Its usage in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years has proved its detoxifying properties. It has shown most beneficial effects for the circulatory, digestive, respiratory and urinary systems.

Mineral pitch ( Shilajeet )

Tar-like purified exsudate of mineral origin. It is a balanced general tonic comprising useful mineral and organic constituents and taken to help digestion and assimilation of foods. Often used in combination with other specific plant decoctions. It is a powerful aphrodisiac and stimulant.

Momordica charantia, Linn. ( Karela, Bitter melon )

Karela has been widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains Gurmarin, a polypeptide considered to be similar to bovine insulin and has been shown in clinical studies to achieve a strong sugar regulating effect by suppressing the neural responses to sweet taste stimuli.

Moringa pterygosperma, Gaertn. ( Shigru, Horseradish tree )

Shigru contains physiologically active principles that have been shown to be effective in a broad range of health needs. For example, it contains "Pterygospermin", an antibiotic-like substance

Mucuna pruriens , Stickm. ( Kapikachchhu, Cow-itch plant )

Mucuna pruriens has been reported to be a good natural source of L-Dopa. That lends much credibility to the old claim from ayurvedic physicians that M. pruriens is a very effective nervous system tonic. Studies have demonstrated its usefulness maintaining optimum performance of the nervous system.

Nardostachys jatamansi, ( Jatamansi, Musk root )

Jatamansi is in the same botanical family as Valerian, a relaxing plant with established effectiveness for mental health. Ayurvedic practitioners include it in their formulations to address anxiety. It hs been shown effective in helping maintain a restful sleep and with many menopausal symptoms.

Orchis mascula , Linn. ( Salabmisri, Salep orchid )

Nerve stimulant and revigorating tonic that has long been known for its value in cases of sexual weakness. It has also been tested recently for cases of nervous debility.

Piper longum, Linn. ( Pippali, Indian Long Pepper )

Pippali is a powerful stimulant for both the digestive and the respiratory systems and has been shown to have a rejuvenating effect on lungs. Pippali plays an important role in aiding the thermogenic response, i.e. the release of metabolic heat energy. This effect is the result of increased thyroid hormone level in the body and makes Pippali a typical Ayurvedic complementary component whose benefit is to increase the bioavailability and enhance absorption of the other active ingredients.

Piper nigrum, Linn. ( Maricha, Black pepper )

The black pepper is one of the most renowned culinary spices. It contains an alkaloid piperine that has been widely used to amplify the body's ability to absorb nutrients contained in the food and aid the digestive process.

Rubia cordifolia, Linn. ( Manjishta, Indian Madder)

Indian madder is considered the best Ayurvedic blood-purifying herb. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used as an immune regulator. Its antioxidant properties are also being investigated. Its role in supporting heart health is supported by studies that show that it regulates the tendency of blood to form clots and regulates blood pressure and blood vessel constriction.

Solanum nigrum, Linn. ( Kakamachi, Black Nightshade )

Kakamachi plant and berries contains various alkaloids that have been isolated and shown to have a dilatation action on the pupil. The main use, however, is to support healthy liver, skin, kidneys and bladder. The most recent studies indicate that the hepatoprotective effects of the crude extract may be due to the suppression of the oxidative degradation of DNA.

Saxifraga ligulata, Wall. ( Pasanavheda )

Diuretic with the unique property of reaping optimum urinary tract health. Supports bladder by acting on the crystalloid-colloid balance and keeping calcium salts in soltion.

Terminalia arjuna ( Arjuna )

Arjuna is a heart tonic that has been used to support the cardiovascular functions since ancient times with known cardioprotective effects. Recent work has investigated the mechanism of this activity and has shown a dose-dependent regulation of blood pressure and heart rate. There was also a slight increase in the HDL-to-total cholesterol ratio and an overall improvement in the cardiovascular profile.

Terminalia chebula, Retz. ( Haritaki, Chebulic myrobalam )

Haritaki is a safe and effective purgative, expectorant and tonic. It is a component of the classic Ayurvedic combination called "Triphala" or "three fruits" ( see also Amalaki and Vibhitaki ) The use of Tiphalpha is at the heart of Ayurvedic medicine which often promotes health through successive steps of purification and detoxification. In Sanskrit, Haritaki literally means "carries away" (all diseases). It is known to have strong anti-mutagenic activity, likely because it is, like Amalaki, very rich in vitamin C.

Tinospora cordifolia, Willd. ( Guduchi , Gulancha tinospora )

Guduchi is a rich source of natural vitamin C which has now been proven to be effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria and in building up the immune resistance. Scientific research is now providing clues to Guduchi's immune-boosting ability. In a study using human white blood cells, Guduchi increased the killing ability of macrophages, the immune cells responsible for fighting invaders.

Tribulus terrestris, Linn. ( Gokshura, Small caltrops )

Gokshura is a mild diuretic widely used to promote urinary tract health. It promotes the flow of urine, cools and soothes the membranes of the urinary tract and inhibits the production of oxalate, a substance that cause microcrystals. Gokshura's role in maintaining a healthy heart has also been researched. It contains saponins that may improve the heart function by dilating coronary arteries, thereby boosting circulation to the heart. In a Chinese study, when 406 patients were treated with these saponins, their EKG improved in 67% of the cases.

Triphala

One cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, a combination of three fruits : Amalaki, Haritaki ( see above ) and Vibhitaki, Terminalia belerica. Each one has a more pronounced action on one dosha that needs balancing, so that the formula becomes of universal value and has very wide use in a large number of preparations. It is a laxative that rejuvenates the membrane lining the digestive tract.

Withania somnifera , Dunal ( Ashwagandha or Winter Cherry )

Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years as a popular remedy for many conditions. Perhaps its main use, as described in Ayurvedic literature, is as a daily, long-term "rasayana" or rejuvenating treatment. Ashwagandha is one of the best known and best researched Ayurvedic herbs and holds a place in the Ayurvedic traditions similar to Ginseng in Chinese therapies. For that reason, Ashwagangha has been often referred to as the "Indian Ginseng". It is one of the best health tonics and restorative agents that have been used to treat general debility, exhaustion, stress induced fatigue and insomnia. Studies have shown its rejuvenating effect, particularly for the muscles and marrow. Various alkaloids and with anoloides in Withania somnifera have shown impressive results in scientific testing, two of them as stimulants for the immune system.

Zingiber officinale, Rosc. ( Sunthi, Ginger )

Ginger is the delicious common spice used in Ayurvedic medicine in much the same way it is used in traditional chinese medicine : to improve digestion and prevent nausea. These properties result from helping bowel movements and relaxing the muscles controlling the digestive system. Ginger is considered an adjuvant in many Ayurvedic formulas in which it enhances absorption and prevents gastrointestinal side effects. This is one of many examples of the careful balance achieved in these formulas.

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