Ayurveda in India lays great emphasis on taste. Also, known as rasa in Sanskrit, taste can be defined in a number of ways. Experience, enthusiasm, essence and juice, all form an integral part of taste. The 6 tastes that Ayurveda identifies are as follows:

Each taste possesses a different property and render different benefit to the body while playing a vital role in the digestion process. A balance or a mix of all these tastes is what makes the experience of eating and tasting the food palatable. Each taste in the aforementioned lists of taste are a combination of two of the five elements mentioned in Ayurveda. Their unique property reflects in their predominant elements and act on the body as per the three doshas. For example, the sweet taste is a combination of the elements of earth and water, which are the same elements that make up the kapha dosha. For those with kapha dosha, sweet taste can lead to an increase in kapha dosha and qualities of heaviness, coolness, slowness and stickiness. On the other hand, sweet taste in those with vata dosha , when taken in moderate quantities, can prove to have a positive effect on the health and balance out disorders.

Different types of tastes as per Ayurveda:

The moment the food reaches our mouth, the first thing that strikes about it is its taste. Good or bad, palatable or unpalatable, it is the taste that makes us decide whether we would want to further swallow/eat that thing or not. But did you know that taste also has a connection to the digestion process of whatever we eat? The saliva in the mouth contains enzymes that further help in breaking down of the food into carbohydrates before we swallow it. Once one of the earlier mentioned six tastes has been identified by the brain, it signals the gut or the digestive tract to secret the specific enzymes that would be required for proper digestion. It is for this particular reason that we are always advised to eat our food with proper attention and savor every bite of it. Read more on how to improve digestion.

It is not that difficult to obtain a sense of these 6 tastes. But one needs to know that misuse of this sense can lead to diminish of their effect on your health and cause an imbalance in the digestive system. For example, if a person with kapha dosha indulges in too many sweets, it can lead to the problem of obesity and diabetes in him. Similarly, if a person with pitta Dosha consumes foods with sour taste, it can lead to increase in digestive problems in them.

Here’s your guide to understanding the 6 tastes as prescribed in Ayurveda:

1) Sweet taste :

Comprising the elements of earth and water, sweet taste balances vata and pitta dosha in the body and increases kapha dosha. Of the six types of tastes, this one is said to be the most nourishing. When taken in moderation, they are known to provide you with longevity, strength and healthy body fluids. But remember to not go overboard with it as it can lead to health conditions like weight gain, obesity, and diabetes among others.

Sweet taste is prominent in food items like wheat, rice, pumpkin, maple syrup etc.

2) Sour taste :

Consisting of the elements of water and fire, it is known to stimulate pitta and kapha dosha in the body and decrease the vatadosha. Foods with sour taste are also known to increase appetite and production of saliva. Of the six different types of tastes that exist, sour taste is known to awaken thoughts and emotions and improve digestion. It needs to be taken in moderation else can lead to aggression in the body in no time. Some of the sour taste food items are lemon, vinegar, pickled vegetables and tamarind among others.

3) Salty taste :

Salty taste consists of the elements of earth and fire and leads to decrease of vata and increase of pitta and kapha doshas. Because of its hydrating nature, of the 6 tastes in Ayurveda, salty taste aids in digestion and cleansing of the tissues. But too much of it can also lead to increase in blood pressure and have impact on your skin and blood. So, it’s intake in moderation is recommended. Examples of salty tasting foods are sea vegetables, sea salt, and black olives among others.

4) Spicy (pungent taste) :

Pungent taste consists of the elements of fire and air and of the 6 tastes in Ayurveda, it is the hottest and so is known to aid digestion, improve appetite, cleanse tissues and enhance blood circulation. Pungent taste also helps in balancing of kapha but if had in more than prescribed quantitates can aggravate pitta and lead to other health related issues. Vata handles pungent taste when combined with sweet, sour or salty foods. Some of the best examples of spicy foods are chilies, garlic, ginger, hot peppers and onions etc.

5) Bitter taste :

Bitter taste is made up of the elements of air and space and is considered to be the coolest of all the six tastes. Naturally detoxifying in nature, it helps remove waste and toxic material from the body and purifies the body. Bitter taste is best suited for pitta and kapha doshas and least beneficial bodies with vatadosha. Turmeric, green vegetables, and herbal teas fall in the category of foods with bitter taste.

6) Astringent taste :

Made up of air and earth elements, astringent taste is said to be cool, firm and dry. People with vata are advised to consume less of astringent taste as it can lead to problem of gas in them. It benefits people with pitta dosha. Unripe bananas, cranberries, and green beans etc., are said to have astringent taste.

While it would be difficult to adjust all the types of tastes mentioned here in every meal, a combination of two or three of these six tastes will help you maintain a balance in your ayurvedic diet as well as health.

Yoga is a great workout as well as a spiritual practice to be incorporated in one’s ayurvedic daily routine for balancing a person’s health foundation. Yoga always benefit the most when balancing is done according to the dosha one has as it makes easier to practice the pose. Those with pitta dosha are basically the ones who perspire a lot. They easily get irritated in hot weather and prefer cooler climates. The main body organs like eyes, skin, liver, brain and intestines are ruled by pitta and thus its imbalance creates problems like rashes, heartburn, fever, infection etc. Pitta also has psychological imbalance effects like feelings of anger, anxiety and hatred. People with pitta dosha are also prone to mental disorders. Thus, it is important to maintain the balance by doing Yoga for pitta dosha.

The pitta pacifying yoga for an individual should promote empathy, recognition and calm efforts. Pitta dosha is ruled by fire and water and the energy is associated with not just digestion but also enzymatic and endocrine systems as recommended by ayurveda. It helps in digestion of nutrients providing energy and vigor to the body. There are many good postures in yoga that help in providing stability to the pitta dosha. Learn more on how to improve digestion.

Pitta Yoga:

The easiest yoga for pitta imbalance is pranayama, which focuses on the cooling and systematic breathing. According to yoga, exhaling through mouth is a good way to release heat and helps balance the pitta dosha in the long run. Pranayama help in treating body ulcers that pitta body types are prone to. Sitali or cool breath practice is a part of this pitta yoga and doing at least ten rounds of this helps tremendously. For sitali, one should roll their tongue around the lips and inhale through the rolled tongue, then close your mouth and exhale through the nose.

Another effective way to do yoga for pitta dosha is by doing vinyasa or rounds of sun salutations. This asana should be done with slow and relaxed poses so as to bring calmness and cooling to the body.

It is very important to know that not too many strenuous backbends should be performed as they heat up the body fast. Anjanasayana or crescent lunge and Salsbasana or locust pose should be done in a relaxed manner, to bring more coolness to the body.

Forward bends or folds are cooling in nature and uppavistakonasana is a good one as it cools off the Pitta fire in the pelvis area. Pascimottasana, or the Pigeon pose is a one with forward bend that is also good to perform.

For the abdominal areas, twists like ardhamatsyendrasana or the half lord of the fishes pose is also very balancing in nature. One needs to stand straight and then bend forwards in bow pose and cobra pose in a bid to do pitta pacifying yoga.

Another way to do yoga for pitta body type is to meditate with some nadisodhana or alternate nostril breathing in a seated position. Maitreya meditation overcomes the pitta dosha problems like hunger, short temper, impatience and anger. The pitta mind also responds well to the meditation that is centered on sounds that are soothing, good smells and bright colors. Make sure to surround yourself with cool and light colors, focus the gawk on an unruffled and soothing yantra that will guide your mind into a peaceful and serene state.

There are also restorative child pose and fish pose asanas that help balance the pitta. These poses help in being peace to the body and mind.

It is also important to know that while doing yoga poses for pitta dosha one must try to avoid doing headstands as they accumulate too much heat in the head and eyes, aggravating the condition. Since eyes are controlled by pitta, this creates serious imbalance. Learn How To Reduce Pitta Immediately.

For the pitta pacifying yoga one needs to follow some basic guidelines by doing asanas and poses that are fun to do and not pushing yourself too much. A very strenuous pose may heat up the body, aggravating the pitta. Also, always try to enjoy movements in the poses that help to make them more relaxed. While gazing on the ground downwards at the horizon and practicing yoga with closed eyes one can achieve the desired results faster. Make sure to keep changing the yoga asanas as monotony gets boring for the body as well. Always practice the pitta balancing yoga in a cool area so as to help get over the condition faster. Also focus more on inhalation as the cool breath helps to diffuse the heated pitta dosha faster. Exhalation helps to release and let go of built up anger and frustration easily. Breathing should also be regulated for the back body area as well as the front, especially the ribs. Make sure to notice the ribs position every time you perform an asana and try to inhale so as to draw them back into the body. Also know about the various advantages of Yoga.

Ayurveda helps not only physically but also mentally in incorporating one’s ayurvedic daily routine to balance the body energy and constitution. The yoga asanas and poses not only help to balance doshas in the body but also approach to each is different. Know about the various advantages of Yoga. The kapha pacifying doshas help overcome the states of listlessness, dullness and lethargy. If kapha is your predominant dosha, one can be prone to health problems like allergic reaction, diabetes, bronchitis, sinus, anxiety and even obesity. Hence, it is very important to include a variety of routines in daily exercise for kapha yoga. People with kapha dosha can be very sensitive to cold and damp climates. So it is very important for them to stay warm and dry. Add hot teas and milk to your ayurvedic diet.

Yoga for kapha body type should include innovation and newness so as to get over the boring every day exercise regime. The kapha balancing yoga should be warm, light and energizing in a bid to get the energy back and flowing again.

Meditation is one of the best techniques for people with kapha dosha. Stay in contact with nature and spiritual mindfulness helps keep you warm and comfortable. One may also use walking meditation to align your breath with your step. In a sitting position, one should make an upright position with an erect spine while meditating to avoid slouching and nodding off.

Yoga for kapha body type need not be very rigorous or painstaking.

Kapha Yoga:

The kapha body type may be sturdier and can also benefit from flexibility. One should be more comfortable and at east with the asanas while performing kapha balancing yoga. The best types of yoga poses for kapha dosha include Ashtanga yoga where the kapha body does not sweat easily and keeps the body toxins also away. This yoga is a great way for detoxification, to purify the body and give a healthy sheen by stimulating the adrenal systems. Also Natrajasana or Lord of the Dance Pose or Utarasana or the camel pose and kapalbhati pranayama, kundalini or breath of fire, are also beneficial for rousing blood circulation and respiratory systems. Since kapahs tend to build up a lot of mucous, these positions and yoga asanas help in finishing off that.

In order to do the kapha pacifying yoga, one needs to practice regularly these asanas in a meticulous and careful manner.

According to ancient yoga practitioners, it is very important for an individual to create more space, motivation, enthusiasm and warmth while performing yoga for kapha dosha. Also, one should focus more on practicing at a spirited velocity for the kapha to be pacified. There should be adequate focus on keeping the energy field as wide as possible in a bid to make the asana help effect. It is also important to practice in a warmer area to create more energy and deep, forceful breaths should be taken. Also keep looking upwards in a bid to centralize the energy. During practice of the asanas, make sure to open the shoulders and chest as wide as possible to help remove kapha accumulation. It also helps in feeling a sense of lightness in the poses. Also, always make sure to have short resting periods between the poses as it helps in retaining positive energy in the body. One should be precise in the yoga asanas as it helps in conserving the energy as well. It also helps to keep a good alignment during the poses which ensure that excessive kapha gets pacified adequately. Make sure to do your yoga for kapha dosha between the early morning’s right after the sunrise as it would keep you more energized and motivated throughout the day. Learn more on How To Remove Kapha From Body.

Vata constitution of the body is the imbalance which is characterized by cold, mobility, buoyancy and size. Those who have this type can customize their yoga practice to bring back the balance. Vata dosha yoga basically helps one to reestablish the qualities of warmness, firmness and proper training to focus on establishing a natural state of well-being. Practicing yoga for vata body type can help bring equilibrium, tranquility and sustenance faster than any other way. Know about the various advantages of Yoga.

People with vata derangement end up with various health issues like headache, arthiritis, insomnia, anxiety and other digestive disorders as they do not take care of their diet properly. According to ayurveda, vata pacifying yoga can balance all the doshas and give a radiant and beaming health. Those with vata try to push themselves very hard to do rigorous yoga asanas like surya namaskar in a bid to counter its effects. But the asanas which are more appropriate for vata balancing are supposed to be calming by nature. These asanas also help to assuage anxiety issues and improve discrepancies like constipation and body pains etc. The lower abdomen, pelvis, and large intestine mostly house vata in the body with many of the asanas compressing the lower abdomen. Also, the asanas that strengthen the lower back help improve vata.

Vata Yoga

There are various yoga poses for vata dosha and few of them are listed below:

Uttanasana

is one of the most incomparable asana for vata yoga which works positively to remove vata dosha. One needs to stand straight with shoulders in a width-apart position. Stretch your arms straight up and thereafter hold onto the opposing arms behind the head. Keep the back in straight position and slowly bend forward taking a comfortable position. Try touching the ground in front but you need to be very careful while performing this yoga for vata imbalance as the back can be injured if there’s too much strain while bending. Hence, caution and restrained should be maintained.

Paschimottansana

is the seated version of Uttanasana which is performed usually when the back is sore.

Balasana

or the Child’s Pose is another admirable yoga pose for vata dosha which helps in constricting the pelvis region. You need to sit in an upright position while flexing the knees and folding them under the bum area. Position the arms on one side and bend in the forward position, relaxing the head on the floor in front. For those who are unable to touch the head on the ground can put a pillow or blanket underneath. This vata balancing yoga is best for those suffering from constipation or indigestion. Apart from practicing, Balasana for treating constipation, you can also try home remedies for constipation to get instant relief.

Supta Virasana

is another vata pacifying yoga that helps in stretching of abdominal lower back muscles increasing the pressure on pelvis area and helping to treat asthama condition in young people. One needs to kneel the knees together and sit in a squatting position moving the legs out to the side of pelvis. One needs to place hands on ends of the feet and lean backwards in a bid to touch the lower back on the floor.

Dhanurasana

or bow pose is one of the most popular asanas that gives maximum vata relief if performed regularly. For this one needs to lie on the stomach and arms at both sides. Lift the head and shoulders simultaneously and mend both the knees together. Try to reach back and touch the ankles and draw the chest upwards to let the lower body just rest on the pelvic area.

Ustrasana

is usually performed by people with pitta energy. These yoga poses for vata dosha involve squatting and keeping the hands on the buttocks. Move the pelvis area forward, pulling out the lower back and bringing the hands to touch the knees. Also tenderly extend the neck forward and breathe easy. This asana would make the stomach, plexus and the chest areas flexible, allowing the free movement of energy through these organs.

Surya namaskar

or sun salutation is one of the best aerobic exercises that benefits people with kapha. It is a wonderful and sure shot way to get rid of excess weight and stress. It is also one of the best yoga for vata imbalance as it creates heat and opens the chest for energies to pass through. There are 12 positions to follow in this yoga whereby the first begins with standing erect, raising arms towards the sun and bending backwards. Thereafter, bend forward and fold the knees and then perform the adho mukha shavasana. Taking the cobra pose and pressing back and then coming to the standing position once again complete a cycle of surya namaskar. This has to be repeated a number of times to be effective in balancing the vata. People of kapha energy should perform this vata dosha yoga regularly at a great speed whereas people of vata nature should perform it slowly in order to decrease the vata exacerbating tendencies. Few of these yoga asanas are a little negative for the kapha, as kaphas can take advantage of all kinds of extensions and movements. For the kapha dosha people, the weaker areas in the body are the lungs and kidneys and they should be really taken care of while performances.

These yogas for vata imbalance need to be practiced at a slow, smooth and steady pace with more flexibility in the poses. As most of the yoga poses for vata dosha affect the spinal and pelvic areas, it is important to not overdo or exert these joints. Each posture of the asanas should be held for short intervals, performing multiple duplications. Also the area below the navel and above the pubic bone is the power center and hence should be most concentrated on. These asanas are specifically tailored as yoga for vata body type and involve all the body muscles while performing. One very important thing to remember while performing the vata pacifying yoga is to relax and loosen up after practicing the asanas. Always conclude the yoga with a warm bath in order to calm the senses after the rigorous workout.

It is very important to detoxify oneself and remove body toxins in order to get rid of the diseases and make one’s immunity strong and sturdy. Toxins are one of the main reasons for falling sick every weather change and can slowly accumulate diseases causing long-term harm. There are two causes of toxins that build up in the body – the internal toxins and the external toxins. The external ones are those we collect through the kind of junk and oily food we eat and the internal toxins are sourced by our metabolism. Internal toxins in ayurveda are called ama, which are aggravated when the digestive fires get weakened over the course of time. Both the kinds of toxins are deadly and need to be removed in order to be hale and hearty. There are four conditions of digestive fires or amas that are created in the body, when the digestion weakens. These interfere with the normal working of organs and include:

Balanced fire

This is the ideal condition for digestion as the balanced fire does not produce ama and therefore toxin removal is done on its own. Learn how to improve digestion.

Low fire

When the digestive fire is too low it accumulates a lot of toxins and produces ama.

Rituacharya is the ancient Ayurvedic practice and is comprised of two words, “Ritu” which means season and “charya” which means Regimen or discipline. Ritucharya consists of lifestyle and ayurvedic diet routine to cope with the bodily and mental impacts caused by seasonal changes as recommended by Ayurveda . Ritucharya enables us to build our physical strength and mental capability to battleailments that may happen due to seasonal changes. In addition to that, it balances all the three doshas in our body and keeps us fit and healthy throughout the year.

6 seasons according to Ayurveda

A year is divided into 2 Kaals (time periods). Each Kaal comprises of 3 seasons which gives a total of 6 seasons in a year. Each season lasts for two months and these seasons are precisely found in Indian subcontinent

• Adaan Kaal/ Northern Solstice/ Uttaryana (14 January to 14 July)
  • Shishir Ritu (Winter) Mid- January to Mid- March
  • Vasant Ritu (Spring) Mid- March to Mid-May
  • Grishma Ritu (Summer) Mid- May to Mid- July
• Visarga Kaal/ Southern Solstice/ Dakshinayana (14 July to 14 January)
  • Varsha Ritu (Monsoon) Mid- July to Mid- September
  • Sharad Ritu (Autumn/ Fall) Mid- September to Mid- November
  • Hemant Ritu (Late Autumn/Pre-Winter) Mid- November to Mid- January

Aadaan Kaal/ Northern Solstice/ Uttaryana

During this season, the sun and the wind are extremely powerful. The Sun wards off all the energy and strength from people, and the cooling qualities from the earth. The scorching sun gives balmy and parched qualities to plants and humans. Thereby, reducing the strength among individuals.

1. Shishir Ritu (Winter):

Mid-January to Mid-March – During this season, the environment remains cold and windy. The strength of the person remains less in this season, deposition of the Kapha Dosha happens and Agni (Catabolism) remains in a higher state. Learn How To Remove Kapha From Body.

Diet Routine: Foods having Amla (tarty) as the overwhelming taste is preffered. Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour items, new rice, corn, and others, are suggested. Ginger, garlic, Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula), Pippali (products of Piper longum), sugarcane items, and milk and milk items are to be incorporated into the eating regimen.

Foods having Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) dominating Rasa are to be stayed away from. Laghu (light) and Shita (cool) foods should be avoided.

Lifestyle: Massage with oil/ Powder/ Paste and take shower with tepid water, exposure to sunlight and wearing warm clothes is essential.

2. Vasant Ritu (Spring)

Mid-March to Mid-May – This season is considered as the season of flowers and origin of new leaves. Rasa and Mahabhuta during this season are Kashaya (astringent), and Prithvi and Vayu, respectively. An individual’s strength during this season remains in medium degree, vitiation of Kapha Dosha occurs and Agni i.e digestion power remains in Manda state.

Diet Routine: One should take foods that are easily digestable. In cereals, Wheat, rice, old barley is suggested during this season. In pulses, lentil, Mugda etc. can be eaten. Food items tasting bitter, Kattu (pungent), Kashaya (astringent) should be eaten. Honey can also be added in the diet. Rabbit meat can be taken since it is easily digestable. Foods that are cold, heavy and viscous should be avoided.

Lifestyle: Using tepid water for bathing is considered ideal. Exercising during Vasant Ritu is a must. Massage with the powder of Chandana, Kesara, Agaru is suggested. Kavalu (gargle), Dhooma (smoking), Anjana (collyrium) and evacuative measures, like Vamana and Nasya are suggested.

Sleeping during day is not advised during this season.

3. Grishma Ritu (Summer):

Mid-May to Mid-July – This season is intensely hot and environment is prevalent with unhealthy wind. The lakes and rivers are dried up, the plants are lifeless and the strength of an individual becomes weak. Deposition of Vata Dosha happens but the Kapha Dosha is relaxed during this season. Agni of the person remains in mild condition. Lavana and food with Katu (pungent) and Amla (sour) taste and Ushna (warm) foods should be avoided. Learn How To Balance Vata.

Diet Routine: Foods which are light to process—those having Madhura (sweet), Snigdha (unctuous), Sheeta (cool), and Drava (fluid) Guna, for example, rice, lentil, etc., should be eaten. Drinking a lot of water and different fluids, like cold water, buttermilk, fruit juices, meat soups, mango juice, stirred curd with pepper, is suggested. At sleep time milk with sugar should be taken.

Lavana and food with Katu (sharp) and Amla (acrid) taste and Ushna (warm) nourishments are to be evaded.

Lifestyle: Remaining in cool spots, applying sandal wood and other aromatic pastes over the body, decorating with blossoms, wearing light dresses and napping at day time are useful. Amid night one can appreciate the cooled moon rays with breeze. Extreme exercise or hardwork is to be evaded; a lot of sexual liberality and alcoholic preparations are precluded.

Visarga kaal / Southern solstice / Dakshinayana

1. Varsha Ritu (Monsoon)

Mid-July to Mid-September – It is considered as Varsha Ritu. During this seasn, the sky is cloudy and rains happen without thunderstorms. The lakes and rivers are filled with water. Rasa and Mahabhuta in this season are Amla (sour), and Prithvi and Agni, respectively. The strength of an individual becomes weak in this season. Variation of Vata Dosha and deposition of Pitta Dosha , Agni also gets vitiated. Learn How To Reduce Pitta Immediately.

Diet Routine: Foods having Amla (tarty) and Lavana (salty) taste and of Sneha (unctuous) qualities should be eaten. Read more on different types of taste. Among grains, old barley, rice, wheat, and so on, are suggested. Other than meat soup, Yusha (soup), and etc. are to be incorporated into the daily diet. It is said that one should take medicated water or boiled water.

Drinking river water, having a lot of water, excessive fluid and wine should not be taken. The foods, which are substantial and difficult to process, similar to meat, are prohibited.

Lifestyle: Boiled water for bathing and massaging the body properly with oil is advised during this season. Medicated Basti (enema) is prescribed as an evacuative measure to expel vitiated Doshas.

Drenching in rain, napping in the day, exercising, sexual indulgence, hard work, wind, staying at the river bank are some of the things that should be avoided.

2. Sharad Ritu (Autumn/Fall) :

Mid-September to Mid-November – During this season, the Sun turns out to be splendid, the sky stays clear and sometimes with white cloud, and the earth is smeared with wet mud. The prevalent Rasa is Lavana (salty) and transcendent Mahabhutas are Apa and Agni. The strength and energy of an individual stays medium, appeasement of vitiated Vata Dosha and vitiation of Pitta Dosha happens, and movement of Agni increases amid this season.

Diet Routine: Foods having Madhura (sweet) and Tikta (sharp) taste, and of Laghu (light to process) and cold properties should be eaten. Foods having the properties to mollify vitiated Pitta are advised. Wheat, green gram, sugar sweet, nectar, Patola (Trichosanthes diocia), meat of animals from dry land (Jangala Mamsa) is to be incorporated into the eating routine.

Hot, bitter, sweet, and astringent foods are to be stayed away from. The food products, such as fat, oils, meat of aquatic creatures, curds, and so on should be excluded from the diet amid this season.

Lifestyle: Habit of eating food, just when there is a feeling of hunger is suggested. One should take water sanitized by the beams of sun in day time and beams of moon during the evening for drinking, bathing etc. It is suggested to wear flower garlands, and to apply paste of Chandana (Santalum collection) on the body. It is said that moon beams in the initial 3 hours of night is favorable for wellbeing. Restorative methods, for example, Virechana (cleansing), Rakta-Mokshana (phlebotomy), and so on, ought to be finished amid this season.

Napping during the day, exposure to sun light and excessive eating should be avoided during this season.

3. Hemant Ritu (Late Autumn/Pre-Winter) :

Mid-November to Mid-January -Blow of cool breezes begins and chillness is felt. Dominating Rasa amid this season is Madhura and the overwhelming Mahabhutas are Prithivi and Apa. The energy and strength of an individual stays on highest grade and vitiated Pitta Dosha gets assuaged. Action of Agni is increased.

Diet Routine: One should eat unctuous, sweet, tarty, and salty foods. Among grains and pulses, new rice, flour arrangements, green gram, Masha, etc., are suggested to be eaten. Different meats, fats, milk and milk items, sugarcane items, Shidhu (fragmented preparations), Tila (sesame), etc., are likewise to be incorporated into the eating regimen.

Vata aggravating foods, such as, Laghu (light), cool, and dry foods are to be stayed away from. Consumption of colddrinks is likewise contraindicated

Lifestyle: Exercising, body and head massage, utilization of warm water, Atapa-sevana (sunbath), use of Agaru on body, substantial garments, sexual liberality with one accomplice and living in warm places is suggested. Napping during the day and exposure to strong and cold wind should be avoided.

Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), commonly known in the Hindi language as tulsi, is quite possibly the most revered medicinal herb on the planet. Holy basil is a plant that has violet flowers and blossoms; the stems are green, but sometimes have a purple tinge.

Medicinal preparations are made from the leaves, stems, and seeds of the plant. Holy basil is often used for cooking Thai dishes and its spicy flavor has influenced the common name “hot basil.” This type of basil is much spicier than the other basil varieties.

Interestingly, the Hindus worship holy basil; the plant is considered the “Mother Medicine of Nature.” It’s been revered since ancient times as an herb that can promote a healthy body, mind, and spirit. The sacred plant is often planted around Hindu shrines. The name tulsi means “the incomparable one.”

But in Western medicine holy basil is perhaps most valued as an adaptogen (a substance that helps the body adapt to stress). The plant has been used to combat the negative effects of stress in the body, maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promote longevity.

Health Benefits

Holy basil is used to treat many conditions, including H1N1 (swine) flu, diabetes, the common cold, headache, fever, stress, upset stomach, earache, and more. It has also been used as a mosquito repellant and topically (on the skin) to treat ringworm.

Studies have shown that holy basil has a wide range of health-promoting properties including:

• Adaptogenic
• Anti-arthritic
• Anti-coagulant
• Anti-diabetic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-pyretic (prevents itching)
• Antidiarrheal
• Antimicrobial (including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and more)
• Antioxidant
• Antitussive (treats cough)
• Liver-, brain-. and heart-protective

What Are Adaptogens?

Holy basil is an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogens are substances found in plants that help boost the body’s resilience in dealing with stressors. Because the effects of stress on the body play such a huge role in the aging process, adaptogens are also considered to have anti-aging properties.

They may perform many different functions including:

• Balancing hormones such as cortisol (the stress hormone)
• Improving brain function
• Boosting the immune system
• Lowering inflammation
• Improving energy levels
• Improving organ and bodily system (such as GI) function

In a 2017 systematic review, study authors suggest that holy basil may be an effective adaptogen, helping to “address the psychological, physiological, immunological, and metabolic stresses of modern living.”

Holy basil is used for its many health benefits, and is used widely in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, but there is insufficient evidence for the treatment of many conditions, including:

• Stress
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Nausea and indigestion
• Back pain
• Earache
• Cold and flu
• Dysentery
• Genitourinary disorders (conditions involving the urinary system and genitals)
• Bronchitis
• Viral hepatitis
• Malaria
• Tuberculosis
• Ringworm
• Snakebite antidote
• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Heart disease

Research

A 2014 review of tulsi suggests that modern-day science is beginning to gather enough medical research data to back up claims of the many touted health benefits of holy basil.

The fact that science is not only beginning to study these ancient herbal medicines, but also lends credibility to them, is a big leap in Western healing modalities.

Clinical Domains

In a 2017 review of 24 independent clinical studies on tulsi, over 1,000 study participants (from ages 10 to 80) were observed after taking holy basil in various forms and dosages. In three primary categories called “clinical domains,” holy basil was found to “provide favorable clinical effects.” The three domains included:

• Metabolic disorders (15 studies on conditions such as diabetes)
• Neurocognitive disorders (4 studies on conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or mood disorders, like depression)
• Immunity and infections (5 studies)

Inflammation

Holy basil has been identified in studies as having important health benefits in many medical conditions involving inflammation. In fact, one of the studies in the independent review of studies concluded that tulsi may have many substances that act alone or synergistically (with other chemicals) to inhibit inflammation.

Also, one study found that holy basil may be useful as an aid to other drugs or nutritional interventions for the treatment of metabolic disorders (such as diabetes).

Chronic Diseases

In the 2017 systematic review, the study authors concluded, “The clinical effects demonstrated in the reviewed studies suggest [that] the Ayurvedic tradition of consuming tulsi [holy basil] on a daily basis may be an effective lifestyle measure to address many modern chronic diseases.”

How It Works

The phytochemical (bioactive compounds in plants) makeup of holy basil is considered very complex. Some chemicals in holy basil are thought to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation.

In the 2017 review study, holy basil leaves were reported to have several bioactive compounds, including eugenol, a compound that has “recently been suggested to act via dual cellular mechanisms to lower blood glucose levels,” according to the study authors.

Possible Side Effects

In the 2017 review of 24 independent studies, the study authors wrote, “All reviewed studies reported favorable clinical effects with minimal or no side effects irrespective of dose, formulation, or the age or gender of participants, with only one clinical trial reporting transient mild nausea.”

Note, the longest study reviewed was only 13 weeks in duration, so this data does not rule out any side effects that could occur when holy basil is used for longer than 13 weeks.

Holy basil is possibly safe when taken for periods of up to six weeks, but long-term safety has not yet been fully established.

Special Precautions

The safety of holy basil use has not yet been established in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Holy basil should not be used by people who are trying to conceive because preliminary studies on animals showed that holy basil may cause uterine contractions and negatively impact fertility.

Another animal study showed that holy basil may slow down the rate of normal blood clotting, and it is suggested to stop the use of the herb at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery and two weeks after any type of surgery.

Contraindications

Holy basil is not recommended for those who are taking specific medications such as anti-coagulants (drugs that slow down blood clotting) these include:

• Coumadin (warfarin)
• Heparin
• Aspirin
• Plavix (clopidogrel)
• Fragmin (dalteparin)
• Lovenox (enoxaparin)
• Ticlid (ticlopidine)

Because holy basil’s adaptogenic properties are known to induce relaxation, people who take drugs that also cause drowsiness should not use holy basil.

Selection, Preparation, and Storage

Herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA like prescription drugs. It’s not always easy to identify which products are potent and pure.

That’s the reason for choosing a product that is certified organic, ethically wild-harvested, all-natural and certified by a third-party organization such as the U.S. Pharmacopeia, NSF International, or ConsumerLab.com. These organizations evaluate and report on a product’s level of safety, purity, and potency.

Preparation

Holy basil can be ingested by making a tea out of the plant’s leaves, but according to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the use of the whole plant is the best way to be sure to ingest all of the bioactive chemicals available.

• A tea can be made by brewing 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried holy basil in boiling water, steeping it for 5 or 6 minutes, then drinking it, particularly at bedtime for its relaxation effects.
• A supplement in a pill form or an alcohol extract is available.
• Essential oil of holy basil is made by distilling the leaves and flowers of the plant.
• The leaves can be used in cooking as a flavoring, particularly for Asian dishes. The taste is spicy and bitter, but some people still enjoy eating holy basil raw.

Dosage

The safe and effective dose of any type of medication varies, depending on a person’s age, weight, health condition. and other factors. A safe long-term dose of holy basil (tulsi) has not been well established in medical research studies. But a range of dosages was used in short-term studies, these include:

Early research discovered that taking 500 milligrams (mg) of holy basil leaf extract two times each day for 60 days resulted in reduced anxiety and depression. A dose of 300 mg per day of holy basil leaf extract can be given (for 30 days) for central nervous system disorders.

In preliminary studies, taking 400 mg of holy basil extract in the morning and 800 mg at night for six weeks decreased many symptoms associated with stress, these included:

• Sleep problems
• Sexual problems
• Severe fatigue
• Memory problems

A dose of 10 grams of holy basil leaf aqueous extract can be given 1 to 4 times per day in equal doses As a tincture solution, the average dose is 30 drops per day in three equal doses. Holy basil whole-plant aqueous extract of 6 to 14 grams is an average daily dose.

Storage

If you are growing holy basil, you can harvest the stems and leaves before the flower appears. Dry the sprigs by hanging them upside-down in a dark, cool area for two weeks. Store the dried herb in a glass jar with an airtight lid. Keep the jar in a cool, dark place and use the holy basil within one year.

Purchased tinctures, dried herb, and supplement pills should be stored according to the instructions provided.

Common Questions

Is there a difference between holy basil and the usual basil used in cooking?

Holy basil is not the same as the common green cooking herb found in the produce aisle at the grocery store. In fact, there are approximately 150 different varieties of basil. Each has its own unique healing properties, flavor, smell, and culinary use. Common types of basil include:

Genovese and sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum): This is the common type of basil used in Italian cooking, most popular for its use in flavoring pesto sauce. The plant has large green leaves that offer just a hint of clove flavor.  It’s been used to relieve itching from insect bites, to treat coughs, asthma, nervous conditions and more.

Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var thyrsiflora): This is often used in Vietnamese and Thai cuisine; the flavor of Thai basil is of both mint and licorice. The leaves of the plant are lighter green than Genovese or sweet basil, and the shape of the leaves are not as round (but, rather, spear-like). There are several variations of Thai basil, including:

• Thai basil (O. horapha): Widely used throughout Southeast Asia
• Thai lemon basil (O. maenglak): With a slight taste and scent of lemon
• Holy basil (O. tenuiflorum): Has a spicy, peppery, strong clove-like taste; this is the type of basil preferred in Thai cooking. It is commonly used in Indian dishes, and for a wide range of medicinal uses, as well as for religious purposes.

Is holy basil safe for children? 

No, the safety of holy basil use in children and infants has not yet been established by clinical research studies.

Can holy basil lower blood pressure?

Preliminary studies have shown that holy basil normalizes blood sugar, blood pressure and lipid (fat) levels. But it’s important to avoid replacing any prescription medication with holy basil (or any other herbal supplement) without consulting with the prescribing healthcare provider.

Does holy basil have any nutritional benefits?

Yes, holy basil has many nutrients including vitamins (such as vitamin A) and minerals (like calcium, iron, and zinc).

A Word From Verywell

Although holy basil may be one of the most promising herbs for promoting health and wellness, there are not enough long-term, quality studies to definitively prove its safety and effectiveness in the treatment of many conditions. This does not diminish the many potential health benefits that have been identified by scientific studies.

In fact, according to Marc Cohen, in a study published by Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, “Ayurveda’s use of medicinal and culinary herbs draws upon India’s incredible biodiversity with a variety that is unsurpassed by any medical system; yet, of all the herbs used, none has a status comparable to tulsi or holy basil (Ocimum sanctum).”

Amalaki is a natural remedy long used in Ayurveda (the alternative medicine of India). Sometimes referred to as amla or Indian gooseberry, Amalaki is sourced from Emblica officinalis (a tree native to tropical regions in southeastern Asia).

Amalaki contains a number of substances thought to enhance health, including vitamin C and other antioxidants.

Amalaki is also one of the three herbs included in Triphala, an herbal formula widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Uses

In Ayurveda, Amalaki is said to aid in the treatment of the following health conditions:

• Atherosclerosis
• Diabetes
• Diarrhea
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Joint pain
• Obesity

Amalaki is commonly used to promote longevity in Ayurveda. It’s also used by Ayurvedic practitioners to improve the health of the blood, bones, digestive system, liver, and skin.

Additionally, Amalaki is said to possess cooling properties that can help soothe pitta (one of the three doshas). According to the principles of Ayurveda, excess pitta can contribute to inflammation, difficulty sleeping, skin problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and stress-related issues such as high blood pressure.

In addition, Amalaki is thought to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, promote detox, sharpen memory, and protect against cancer.

Benefits

Despite its long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, Amalaki, and its health effects have been tested in few scientific studies. However, some preliminary research suggests that Amalaki may offer certain health benefits. Here’s a look at some key findings from the available studies on Amalaki:

1) High Cholesterol

Amalaki may help prevent hyperlipidemia (a condition marked by abnormally high levels of cholesterol and other blood fats), according to a 2007 study from the British Journal of Nutrition. In tests on rats, the study’s authors found that Amalaki may help fight hyperlipidemia by curbing oxidative stress.

2) High Blood Pressure

A study published in Cardiovascular Toxicology in 2011 found that Amalaki may help prevent the development and progression of high blood pressure. In an experiment involving rats, scientists determined that antioxidants found in Amalaki may help normalize blood pressure in part by reducing oxidative stress.

3) Diabetes

Amalaki may help protect against diabetic complications, suggests a 2012 study from the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. In the study, researchers found that treating rats with Amalaki reduced the risk of diabetic complications by improving the animals’ antioxidant status and neutralizing free radicals.

4) Cancer

Amalaki has a number of properties that may be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of cancer, according to a report published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention in 2011. According to the report, Amalaki may help fight cancer through several means, such as reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and knocking out free radicals. However, there is currently a lack of clinical trials testing the anti-cancer effects of Amalaki.

Caveats

Due to a lack of research, little is known about the safety of long-term use of Amalaki. However, there’s some concern that Amalaki may trigger certain side effects (including upset stomach).

Amalaki supplements haven’t been tested for safety. It’s important to note that, due to the fact that dietary supplements are largely unregulated, the content of some Amalaki products may differ from what is specified on the product label. In some cases, the product may deliver doses that differ from the specified amount for each herb. In other cases, the product may be contaminated with other substances such as metals. While consumers face such risks when purchasing any dietary supplement, these risks may be of greater magnitude in the purchase of ayurvedic products containing a variety of herbs in varying doses.

In addition, the safety of supplements in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications has not been established. You can get tips on using supplements, but if you’re considering the use of Amalaki, talk with your primary care provider first.

Where to Find It

Widely available for purchase online, Amalaki is sold in many natural-foods stores and stores specializing in dietary supplements.

Using Amalaki for Health

Due to a lack of supporting research, it’s too soon to recommend Amalaki for any condition. It’s important to note that self-treating a chronic condition with Amalaki and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.