Ayurvedic superfoods not only add flavor to your favorite dish, they also confer a wide range of exceptional health benefits.
Superfoods are nutrient dense treasures that not only provide nourishment to your body, but also boosts your mind and spirit. Ayurvedic superfoods have been valued for centuries for its healing, rejuvenating, and life sustaining properties. These superfoods are not only excellent sources of Vitamins and minerals, but they are also nature's way of balancing your three doshas (Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha), and fueling your digestive fire (Agni).
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most commonly found and widely consumed Ayurvedic Superfoods, learn their benefits and ways in which they can be incorporated in our diets.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. A Rasayana bolsters all the three doshas in the literature of Ayurveda, improves digestion, immunity and skin health. If you eat amla regularly, you will notice a change in your energy levels, as you will find yourself more energetic and active throughout the day. Besides, it's high Vitamin C and antioxidant properties will keep you healthy by promoting the detoxification process.
Turmeric
Popularly known as the “golden spice” in Indian households, turmeric contains antioxidants in abundance and harbors anti-inflammatory properties. It helps balance the two doshas- Pitta and Kapha. Turmeric has shown proven benefits in supporting joint health, strengthening the immune system, and ameliorating the skin complexion. It also helps in purification of the blood and digestion.
Ashwagandha
Also known as ‘Indian ginseng’, Ashwagandha is a robust adaptogen which safeguards our bodies from anxiety l, stress, and fatigue. It is mainly known to be beneficial for balancing the Vata dosha. Ashwagandha boosts the immune system, supports mental wellness and clarity, and enhances vitality.
Ghee
The very beloved ‘desi ghee’ found in every Indian kitchen not only adds an excellent flavor and aroma to your food, but its ability to nourish the body and mind is equally commendable. It balances the Vata and Pitta doshas. It is known to promote healthy digestion, improve memory, and aid in achieving a glowing skin.
Did you know, ghee is used in Ayurvedic detoxification therapies like Panchakarma- thanks to its ability to carry medicinal properties deep within the tissues.
Moringa (Drumstick Tree)
Often known as the ‘miracle tree’, Moringa is celebrated for its exceptionally high nutrient content, which include essential Vitamins, minerals, proteins and antioxidants. This superfood balances the Vata and Kapha doshas. Its primary uses include: supporting healthy digestion, boosting immunity, regulating blood sugar levels, and enhancing your body's natural detoxification processes.
Ginger
Ginger adds warmth to your meals, and hence is highly valued in Ayurveda for stimulating Agni, the digestive fire. It also helps balance the Vata and Kapha doshas. The various benefits of Ginger include alleviating nausea, reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, improving blood circulation, supporting healthy digestion, and managing cold and respiratory issues.
Triphala
Triphala is the combination of three fruits namely amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. Ayurveda strongly recommends this superfood for its powerful detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. Triphala is known to balance all the three doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Its numerous health benefits include: maintenance of the gut health, weight management, elimination of toxins, healthy digestion, improved eye health and boosted immunity.
Follow these methods to integrate Ayurvedic Superfoods in your daily Lifestyle to avail their maximum benefits:
By incorporating these Ayurveda Superfoods into your regular Lifestyle, you will witness a positive change in both your mental and physical health and wellbeing.