Ayurveda is one of the planet’s most sacred and ancient forms of healing. It originates from India and is known to be over 30,00 years old. The Sanscrit ‘Ayur’ translates as ‘life’ and Veda as ‘knowledge’. Ayurveda is a holistic form of medicine, meaning it considers the body, mind and spirit not as separate functions, but as part of a whole.
Ayurvedic medicine addresses subtle lifestyle changes to help reach a state of vitality, longevity and overall good health. This traditional form of medicine emphasises the importance of looking at the root cause of illness and doesn’t only focus on the symptoms (like much of conventional medicine does today).
In Ayurvedic tradition, it is normal to consider the individual personality and lifestyle of each patient. There are three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha- each person has all three but there is usually one that is dominant. These doshas determine our physiological, psychological and physical traits; and can even suggest our likes and dislikes.
See our top 5 Ayurvedic powders below:
Tulsi aka Holy Basil
Tulsi is a sacred herb known as ‘queen of the herbs’ and “mother medicine of nature’. It is often associated with the Hindu goddess Vishnu. It is a powerful adaptogenic herb which helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and has antidepressant properties. It is also a powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory and is often used topically to help with acne, cuts and skin rashes.
Shatavari
Commonly associated with the feminine, Shatavari is used to support a whole variety of women’s health issues. Shatavari nourishes the women’s reproductive system and helps to reduce symptoms of PMS such as bloating, pain and discomfort. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of the menopause. It is also used as a mood booster, as it stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin in the body.
Brahmi
Brahmi is named after the god Brahma who is associated with intellect and creativity. Its primary use is as a nootropic (a substance that supports cognitive function) and helps to increase blood flow to the brain. It also has potent antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties.
Mucuna
Known as the velvet bean, Mucuna contains over 5% L- dopa which is the precursor to dopamine. It is known to be an uplifting herb and is used to alleviate feelings of depression.
Ashwagandha
Arguably one of the most common superfoods, Ashwagandha is one of the most potent adaptogenic herbs around. It is used to relieve anxiety and stress as well as help the body and mind cope with external stressors. It is also known as a powerful immune booster and helps to support the thyroid.