Some Herbal Treatments Using Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a treatment system created in India. It is also practiced as alternative medicine around the world. The word “ayurveda” comes from the Sanskrit where “ayus” means life, and “ved,” means science or knowledge. Specific herbs are used for treatments in ayurveda, as to not use harsh chemicals nor drugs.

Herbal Treatment for Hiccups

Ayurveda believes that there are five types of hiccups. The first three, annaja, yamala and kshudra, are due to gastrointestinal problems such as flatulence and constipation. The other two, gambhira and mahati, are caused by serious complications and cannot be easily treated. Herbs and spices can be used to treat hiccups like black pepper (Piper nigrum). By inhaling it, a person sneezes, therefore ending the hiccups. A teaspoon of mustard (Brassica junpea) mixed with ghee and swallowed slowly will help reduce hiccups. Cardamom (Elattaria cardamomum) is used to reduce persistent hiccups. The ayurvedic herb Mayurpichcha mashi (the ash of a burnt peacock feather)is mixed with ginger and honey for treating acute hiccups and reducing them.

Herbal Treatment for Anemia

Anemia is a deficiency of iron in the blood, many times caused by an inappropriate diet, hemorrhoids, low hemoglobin, and other conditions. Celery (Apium graveolens) has a high concentration of iron and magnesium. Adding celery to one's diet can help regain iron for the production of hemoglobin. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum), known as “methi” in ayurvedic medicine, is used in Indian cuisine. It is very effective when used by pubescent girls with anemic conditions. Ash Gourd (Benincasa hipsida) can prevent the risk of anemia by controlling hematuria, which is blood cells in the urine. It can keep in check blood lost from the lungs, nose and hemorrhoids. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthum) is very rich in iron, helping hemoglobin production.

Herbal Diabetic Treatment

Diabetes results when the body fails to properly produce, or uses inefficiently, insulin for cell energy. Wild jeerakam cumin seeds boiled into a specific tonic can lower blood sugar. Salacia oblonga has been used in India and Sri Lanka for a long time. It binds itself to intestinal enzymes that break down carbohydrates in the body.

Herbal Treatment for Acne

Acne is more likely to occur during puberty, and also during perimenopause and menopause. Almond (Amygdalus communis) replenishes nutrients that have been lost and will leave the skin looking shiny and healthy. Ayurveda also uses thin and mild pastes, not thick and heavy pastes which may clog the pores, made with guduchi, sarsaparilla, and shatavari.

Herbal Treatment for Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers are sores or open wounds in the lining of the stomach which can cause excruciating pain. Ayurvedic herbal supplements Ayucid, Avipattikar Churna, Mahashankha Bati, and Prawal Bhasma can shrink ulcers.

As with all forms of natural medicine, always visit a professional practitioner before preparing any home remedy. They can show you exactly how to mix and use the preparations you need for your specific condition.