Ayurvedic Plants and Herbs: How to Use, Benefits & Precautions

With a magnitude of healthful properties, Ayurvedic herbs and species perform a central role in the traditional medical science of Ayurveda. Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to nurture absolute health and wellness. The traditional healing procedure of Ayurveda, which has its root in India, aims to promote physical, mental and spiritual wellness by integrating lifestyle changes, diet and exercise.

Let us understand about different types of ayurvedic herbs and plants in detail.

The following is a list of the top 12 ayurvedic plants and herbs regarding their nature, application, benefits, precautions and more.

1. Ashwagandha

The scientific name of Ashwagandha is Withania somnifera, and it belongs to the Solanaceae family. Ashwagandha is an evergreen plant that is extensively found in Asia and Africa. This Ayurvedic plant acts as an adaptogen that reduces anxiety and stress. Ashwagandha comprises chemicals that relax the brain, lessen inflammation, reduce blood pressure, and boost your immunity.

How to Use?

• You can grind the roots of Ashwagandha in a mixer grinder to obtain its powder form and then consume it.
• As an alternative, you can boil the Ashwagandha roots in a beaker to soften and grind them more easily.
• Ashwagandha can be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach.
• To get sound sleep you can mix the Ashwagandha powder in moon milk and have it.

Benefits

• Reduces anxiety and stress.
• Increases attentiveness and concentration.
• Reduces chances of heart disease.
• Gives relief from arthritis.

Precautions

• Consuming Ashwagandha for a long time in large doses can be risky as it can cause stomach illness, diarrhoea, vomiting, and even liver disease.
• For pregnant women Ashwagandha must be avoided because it can lead to miscarriages.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Persons with extremely high blood pressure.
• People suffering from allergies.
• Pregnant women.
• People suffering from autoimmune diseases.

2. Ajwain

The scientific name of Ajwain is Trachyspermum ammi. It is also known as thymol seeds and bishop’s weed. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, a group of plants comprising caraway, parsley, celery, parsnips, coriander, and fennel. Its seeds and leaves can be consumed as they have great Ayurvedic benefits. Ajwain is also used in cooking while preparing curries and for flavouring bread.

How to Use?

• You can chew Ajwain seeds and then drink plenty of water as it helps reduce gas and acidity.
• It comprises active enzymes that enhance the flow of acids in the stomach, thereby improving digestion.
• You can also consume its leaves which can heal sores in the intestines and stomach.

Benefits

• Helps to cure indigestion and acidity.
• Eases arthritis pain.
• Acts as a mosquito repellent.
• Heals the common cold.

Precautions

• Those who are suffering from allergies must avoid consuming Ajwain seeds as they can cause stomach pain, headache, and vomiting.
• Applying it to the skin makes it more sensitive and can even lead to various skin problems.
• Women must avoid Ajwain during pregnancy as it contains a chemical called Khellin that affects the uterus.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• People suffering from peptic ulcers.
• Persons having any sort of liver disease.
• People suffering from ulcerative colitis.
• Anyone having skin cancer or skin disease.
• Pregnant women.

3. Licorice

Native to Asia and Europe, Licorice root plays a vital role in Ayurvedic medication. This Ayurvedic plant is enriched with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-arthritic, antibacterial and antacid properties. It helps to fight bacteria and viruses, lessen inflammation, foster proper oral health, and manage heartburn. In addition, it alleviates sore throat, and prevents nausea, stomach ulcers, and bloating.

How to Use?

• Licorice is available in chewable tablets and capsules.
• You can mix the herb with any skin-friendly gel before applying it to skin infections like eczema.
• Also, you can boil the loosened herbs with hot water for making tea to cure sore throat.

Benefits

• Helps in relieving gastrointestinal issues and disorders like stomach ulcers, heartburn and food poisoning.
• It can boost production of mucus for the effective functioning of the human respiratory system.
• Helps treat skin related issues due to its antibacterial properties.
• Helps improve testosterone and oestrogen levels and can deal with menopause issues.

Precautions

• People having heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney diseases must stay away from consuming licorice as it contains glycyrrhizin which is harmful for them.
• Applying a large amount of licorice extract on the skin can be unsafe.
• It is harmful to use licorice during pregnancy since it can cause miscarriage.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• People having high blood pressure.
• People suffering from kidney disease.
• Individuals suffering from heart illness.

4. Cumin

Cumin is extensively found in Asia, Europe, and Africa, and it is extracted from the Cuminum cyminum plant. These Ayurvedic plants include compounds named flavonoids that work as antioxidants in the body. Thus, it helps prevent diseases like cancer, heart problems, and high blood pressure. However, cumin is widely used by people worldwide to add flavour to their foods.

How to Use?

• You can use cumin as a flavouring agent in your dishes, and it holds a place of particular prominence in Indian cuisines.
• You can take cumin as a medicine since it treats indigestion, gas, diarrhoea, etc.
• Also, you can grind the cumin seeds in a mixer grinder to obtain its powder before applying it in cooking.

Benefits

• Lessens obesity.
• Controls cholesterol level.
• Reduces stress.
• Manages blood sugar level.

Precautions

• If you consume too much cumin, it can lead to stomach ailments, allergies, drowsiness, and more.
• While undergoing any surgery, avoiding cumin is highly recommended.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Lactating woman.
• People having low blood pressure.
• Pregnant women.

5. Neem

The scientific name of the Neem tree is Azadirachta indica. For centuries, people have valued the Neem tree for its almost magical healing powers. Neem grows widely in tropical countries. Every part of this Ayurvedic plant, from its roots to leaves, has been used to treat people with different health complications. This includes high blood sugar, skin diseases, dental disorders, etc.

How to Use?

• Chewing a few Neem leaves directly or boiling some Neem leaves with water and drinking it regularly can be greatly helpful to reduce blood sugar.
• You can apply the gel form containing Neem leaf extracts to the teeth while using it as mouthwash can help reduce teeth plaque.
• You can apply a paste of Neem leaves on your skin to reduce skin infections and improve skin tone.
• Using shampoo containing Neem extracts can treat lice in children.

Benefits

• Great to deal with malaria, intestinal and stomach ailments, skin infection, and pain.
• Helps reduce bile, oral disorders, and treat intestinal worms.
• It can treat urinary tract infections, diabetes, generic wounds, etc.
• It acts as a potential blood purifier and works effectively to treat eczema, and skin damage.

Precautions

• Neem must not be consumed in large doses or for a long period since it can harm the livers and kidneys.
• Applying Neem oil on the skin for a long time can be unsafe.
• Pregnant women must not ingest Neem bark as it can lead to a miscarriage.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• People who undergo organ transplant.
• Women suffering from infertility.
• Persons undergoing surgery.

6. Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice belonging to the Zingiberaceae family that is widely found in South India and Indonesia. This Ayurvedic herb has a fruity and menthol-like flavour that makes sweet dishes tastier. Apart from cooking, cardamom has medicinal importance too. It helps reduce indigestion, intestinal problems, heartburn, constipation, liver diseases, and so on.

How to Use?

• The cardamom seeds are used in preparing meat dishes, desserts, and even beverages like tea and coffee.
• Cardamom is available in the form of oil that you can apply on your skin for a refreshing sensation.
• As per research, cardamom can be used to retain healthy hair and reduce hair fall.

Benefits

• Reduces blood pressure.
• Helps in fighting cancer.
• Improves oral health.
• Reduces anxiety.

Precautions

• Pregnant women must avoid cardamom as it can lead to miscarriage.
• Consuming too much cardamom can cause loss of appetite and sore throat.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• People suffering from diarrhoea.
• Women must avoid it during pregnancy.
• Persons having diabetes.
• Anyone undergoing surgery.

7. Turmeric

Another name that falls under the list of best Ayurvedic plants is Turmeric. It is the root of Curcuma longa and is a common spice used in Indian cuisine. It tastes bitter and is used to add colour and flavour to curry powders, butter, mustards, and cheese. In addition, turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that cure inflammation, pain and osteoarthritis.

How to Use?

• You can add a tablespoonful of powdered turmeric to vegetable soup or smoothie.
• You can boil turmeric in tea and even chew it in sliced form.

Benefits

• Lessen symptoms related to hay fever, including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and congestion.
• Helps in lowering fats known as triglycerides and addressing cholesterol related issues.
• Helps in reducing depression as a great antidepressant.
• It also protects the liver and alleviates depression.

Precautions

• Using more than required amounts of turmeric regularly can cause stomach upset, dizziness and nausea.
• Pregnant women must stay away from turmeric in order to avoid unnecessary problems in future.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• People having gallbladder problems.
• Persons suffering from diabetes or iron deficiency.
• Persons having gastroesophageal reflux disease and liver disease.

So, here is the list of the top eight notable Ayurvedic plants that have made a significant impact in the world of medication. If you are undergoing Ayurvedic treatments with any of the above-mentioned core ingredients, make sure you are aware of its nature, characteristics, benefits, and side effects.

8. Brahmi

Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri is a creeping herb found in some Asian countries, Africa, Europe, and Australia. This plant is also known by some other names such as water hyssop, thyme-leaved gratiola, and so on. This traditional herbal Ayurvedic plant is applied in the treatment of various neurological disorders.

How to Use?

• Brahmi can be consumed in paste or powdered form with milk in order to boost the functionality of the brain.
• You can make your children intake small doses of Brahmi powder by combining it with honey, ghee, and water to enhance their concentration, immunity, and brain power.
• Brahmi can be used in cooking various dishes and obtain its health benefits.

Benefits

• Have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Helps in improving respiratory health.
• Boosts the immune system.
• Helps in the treatment of diabetes.
• Lessens stress and anxiety.

Precautions

• Persons suffering from slow heartbeat rates must not take Brahmi as it will reduce that heartbeat rate further.
• Persons having asthma or other chronic respiratory diseases should stay away from taking Brahmi since it worsens the ailment.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Persons having a heart problem.
• Individuals having gastrointestinal tract blockage.
• Persons with urinary tract blockage.
• Individuals having severe thyroid conditions.

9. Shatavari

Belonging to the family Asparagaceae, Shatavari is known as the ‘queen of herbs’ and is one of the most popular drugs in Ayurveda. Since it is enriched in Saponins, it possesses antioxidant elements inside it. This therapeutic herbal plant has various health benefits that help treat seet-veeryam, som rogam, madhur vipakam, high fever, and so on. Furthermore, this medicinal herb can also cure female reproductive problems.

How to Use?

• You can consume Shatavari by combining it with normal water.
• You can mix the Shatavari powder in juice or milk before consuming it.
• The Shatavari powder can be blended into a smoothie.

Benefits

• Lessens inflammations.
• Manage blood sugar levels.
• Gives relief from acidity.
• Strengthen immune system.

Precautions

• People having kidney problems should avoid consuming Shatavari.
• Individuals should consult a doctor since Shatavari contains diuretic properties.
• Any pregnant woman should consult a physician before consuming Shatavari.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Anyone undergoing therapy with lithium ions.
• Shatavari can hamper the heart's functioning, so it is sensible to consult a doctor before anyone consumes it.
• People suffering from cold and cough, runny nose, etc.

10. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the top Ayurvedic plants, well-known among Indian households owing to their contributions to the treatment towards wounds, hair treatment, and skin infections. This Ayurvedic herb needs bright sunlight and moist soil for its growth. Even though the taste of this plant is not very good, it is edible. The juice or gel extracted from Aloe vera contains antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties that help in various medicinal treatments.

How to Use?

• You can apply the Aloe vera gel on your skin to cure acne and pimples.
• Aloe vera gel can be mixed with coconut and sugar to form a scrub which you can apply to enjoy glowing skin by removing the dead skin cells.
• You can add a few drops of lemon juice to the Aloe vera gel and apply that mixture to get relief from skin infections.

Benefits

• Controls blood sugar level.
• Reduces digestive problems.
• Helps in the quick healing of wounds.
• Cures dental plaque.

Precautions

• Avoid taking Aloe vera while you are breastfeeding.
• Stay away from consuming Aloe vera if you are having allergies.
• Kids must avoid the intake of aloe latex as it may make them suffer from stomach ailments, diarrhoea, cramps, and so on.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Children of age below 12 years.
• People undergoing any surgery.
• Any pregnant woman.

11. Gotu Kola

The scientific name of Gotu Kola is Centella asiatica. It is another well-known Ayurvedic herb also known as the ‘herb of longevity’. This Ayurvedic plant grows in water and has green fan-shaped leaves.

From research, it is proven that Gotu Kola helps in improving an individual’s memory after he/she suffers a stroke. Furthermore, it helps in the reduction of anxiety and stress. Additionally, several evidences show that Gotu Kola can reduce stretch marks and cures wounds quicker.

How to Use?

• You can intake 500 mg of Gotu kola twice a day and continue it for two weeks to reduce depression.
• You can take a few drops of Gotu kola as it helps in removing the toxins present in the liver and kidney.
• Gotu Kola can be consumed as tea or juice.

Benefits

• Reduce symptoms of psoriasis and eczema.
• Lessen varicose veins.
• Increase concentration level.
• Helps in the treatment of skin injuries.

Precautions

• Avoid taking Gotu kola if you have a headache or nausea.
• Immediately stop taking Gotu kola if you are having high blood sugar levels.
• Stay away from Gotu kola if you are struggling with skin infections.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Anyone having an allergy.
• Children must avoid consuming Gotu kola.
• People above 65 years of age.

12. Tulsi

The scientific name of Tulsi is Ocimum tenuiflorum, which belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This is one of the most important Ayurvedic plants, which is also famous as the ‘Queen of medicinal plants’. This plant retains the importance of the Hindu religion, and it is also known for its religious importance. The strong odour of Tulsi is highly effective in the treatment of various diseases. Furthermore, it prevents bacterial growth inside the human body.

How to Use?

• You can chew and consume the Tulsi leaf after plucking it off the plant.
• Due to its aroma and healing elements, Tulsi is extensively used in households for making tea.
• You can also consume Tulsi in the powdered form.

Benefits

• Tulsi is used as an eardrop.
• Cures malaria.
• Helps in healing insomnia.
• Treats cholera.

Precautions

• Women trying to conceive must avoid Tulsi.
• Avoid consuming Tulsi if you have diarrhoea or nausea.
• Try to avoid Tulsi during breast-feeding.

Who Should Avoid Using This?

• Any pregnant woman.
• People having allergies.
• Individuals suffering from liver problems.