The Intelligence of Ayurvedic Herbs

Dravyaguna Shastra means the science of substances. In Ayurveda, each herb has specific qualities, actions, and therapeutic applications. Everything in nature can have some medicinal or healing value if applied correctly, and similarly, anything can potentially be harmful if misused.

Like food, medicinal herbs classify according to the five fundamental principles of Ayurveda – Rasa (taste), Guna (properties), Veerya (potency), Vipaka (biotransformation), and Prabhava (specific effect). These elements determine the substance’s therapeutic action. For instance, heating herbs are stimulating and expanding. They promote sweating and circulation, bring mental clarity, open skin pores, and clear the bodily channels. On the contrary, cooling herbs are contracting and reducing. They shrink pores, stop bleeding, cause the muscles to contract, and weaken digestion and other bodily functions.

The dominant tastes of the herb also indicate its action. Sweet herbs are nourishing, bitter herbs are detoxifying, astringent herbs are reducing, sour herbs are digestive, pungent herbs are stimulating, and salty herbs are moistening. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of tasting the herb when ingested; therefore, herbs are usually found in the form of tablets (Vati), powders (Churna), decoctions (Kwath), or made into tea. Anupana; the vehicle in which a substance gets carried into the tissues, varies according to the individual’s Dosha. Mix the herb with honey for Kapha, with ghee for Pitta, and in warm milk for Vata.

With the increasing popularity of ‘superfoods‘ arises the issue of overharvesting plants, some of which are endangered or even extinct. Using them respectfully and sustainably is vital, so be mindful not to overuse them and to source them well.

Overview of Common Ayurvedic Herbs

Arjuna | Terminalia arjuna

Rasa (taste) – astringent, bitter

Veerya (metabolic effect) – cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – light, dry

Dhatu (tissues) – plasma, blood, bone, reproductive

Avoid if – pregnant, constipated

Arjuna means ‘shining,’ named after the pale white bark of the Arjuna tree, reflecting light everywhere it grows. Its name is also associated with Arjuna, the hero of the great Hindu epic, the Mahabharata.

Arjuna is considered a heart tonic (Hrdaya) and is used to support the cardiovascular system. Its cooling properties make it excellent for treating ulcers, urinary disorders, acne, and as a blood purifier. Its astringent quality makes it an excellent diuretic, meaning that it can reduce excess fluids in the body, including fat tissue, bleeding, open wounds, diarrhea, excess phlegm, and mucus in the respiratory tract. Arjuna reduces inflammation and congestion (plaque or blocked arteries). On an emotional level, it is used to treat a ‘broken heart.’

Ashwagandha | Withania somnifera

Rasa (taste) – bitter, astringent, sweet

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – light, unctuous (oily)

Dhatu (tissues) – blood, muscle, bone, fat, nerve, reproductive

Avoid if – excess heat is present, constipated

In Sanskrit, ‘Ashwa’ means horse, and ‘Gandha’ means smell or character; the root is believed to give you horse-like stamina. Its botanical name, Withania somnifera, hints to the plant’s relaxing properties, as the word somnifera in Latin translates to ‘sleep-inducing.’

Ashwagandha is both an energizer and a sedative. It strengthens a weakened nervous system, which may manifest as emotional instability, agitation, burnout, sleeplessness, anxiety, and low libido. The root enhances stamina, sexual potency, and vigor, and increases sperm production. It promotes intellect and makes the mind calm and collected. Its sedative qualities promote sleep.

Brahmi | Bacopa monnieri

Rasa (taste) – bitter, sweet

Veerya (metabolic effect) – cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – light, mobile (laxative)

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, nerve

Avoid if – it is an appetite suppressant, so always take it with digestive spices.

Brahmi translates to the ‘energy’ of Brahman, the universal consciousness and divine intellect. The naming of this plant indicates its powerful effects on the mind and nervous system. Brahmi is known to improve memory, learning abilities, and concentration and is used to treat mental disorders. It supports adrenal function, lowers stress levels, and is soothing for the nerves and nerve-related conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, ADHD, autism, depression, epilepsy, and addictions. Brahmi is a good muscle relaxant. It alleviates menstrual pain, cramps, muscle tightness, and insomnia.

Brahmi oil is used topically in Shiro Abhyanga (head massage) for its cooling effect, which helps relieve headaches and brings clarity to mind.

Guduchi (Giloy) | Tinospora cordifolia

Rasa (taste) – bitter, astringent, pungent

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – light, unctuous (oily)

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, nerve, fat, reproductive

Avoid if – pregnant

Guduchi or Giloy is referred to as Amrita in the ancient scripts, which means the ‘divine nectar,’ a life-restoring herb, and one that protects the body. Guduchi is a strengthening herb while also being a potent detoxifier.

Guduchi is rejuvenating; it increases appetite, quenches thirst, and strengthens the nerves and body. It is effective in reducing fever, relieving gout and arthritis, treating skin disorders, and is known to be a powerful blood cleanser.

Guggulu | Commiphora mukul

Rasa (taste) – bitter, astringent, pungent, sweet

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – light, dry, penetrating

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, bone, nerve, fat, reproductive

Avoid if – pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from kidney disorders or heavy menstruation

The resin of the Guggulu tree is known for its remarkable ability to scrape out accumulated toxins present in the body that can lead to unwanted cholesterol or cause arthritis. Guggulu carries substances deep into the tissues; therefore, it is excellent for treating nutritional malabsorption and deficiencies.

Guggulu helps to regulate blood sugar levels and purifies the blood. Its scrapping and heating qualities make it an effective destroyer of toxic buildup and accumulation of fat. It promotes sexual appetite and strength, clears the throat, and improves the voice.

Amalaki (Amla) | Emblica officinalis

Rasa (taste) – sweet, sour, bitter, astringent, pungent

Veerya (metabolic effect) – cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – light, dry

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, bone, nerve, fat, reproductive

Avoid if – dealing with diarrhea

The word ‘Amla’ means ‘sour’ in Sanskrit, indicating the dominance of the sour taste of the plant. Another name for Amalaki is (Dhatrı), meaning ‘mother’ or ‘nurse,’ for its nurturing and healing nature. Amla or Indian gooseberry is the main ingredient in Cyavanapras, a rejuvenating paste (Rasayana) given as a powerful daily multivitamin in India to support immunity and overall health. Amalaki is a heart tonic and is a great anti-inflammatory.

Amla nourishes the blood, promotes energy, increases reproductive fluids, and is a potent aphrodisiac. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it good for the heart, blood, urinary tract, and for clearing the mind. Amla awakens digestion and is a mild laxative.

Castor | Ricinus communis

Rasa (taste) – sweet, astringent, pungent

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – heavy, unctuous (oily)

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, fat

Avoid if – pregnant, suffering from infections of the internal organs, or children under 12 years old.

Castor oil is considered superior for curing arthritis and joint pain. It is warming, oily, heavy, and acts as a potent laxative. Castor is a purgative; it removes toxins from the bowel, lubricates the eyes, relieves muscle and bodily pains, and is excellent for strengthening the hair and preventing hair fall.

Manjistha | Rubia cordifolia

Rasa (taste) – sweet, astringent, bitter

Veerya (metabolic effect) – cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – heavy, dry

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, bone

Avoid if – suffering from Vata imbalance

Manjistha is a climbing plant that spreads throughout the whole system, working mainly on the lymph, circulatory system, and skin. The name translates to ‘bright red,’ attesting to its red-pigmented roots. Manjistha purifies the blood, improves complexion, promotes sweating, reduces accumulation in the tissues, and improves the function and fluidity of the lymphatic system.

Neem | Azadirachta indica

Rasa (taste) – bitter

Veerya (metabolic effect) – cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – light, dry

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, fat, reproductive

Avoid if – suffering from Vata imbalance

Neem, one of the most prized trees in Ayurveda, was termed ‘Sarva Roga Nivarini’ meaning ‘the healer of all diseases. Its bark, oil, leaves, and fruit are used to support good health. Neem is considered one of the best herbs for treating skin disorders, including acne, itching, rashes, and dandruff. It is good for treating wounds, eye infections, burning sensations in the body, hyperacidity, and poisoning. Neem supports the liver and blood but can cause constipation in cases of excessive dryness and high Vata.

Shatavari | Asparagus racemosus

Rasa (taste) – bitter, sweet

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – sweet

Guna (qualities) – heavy, unctuous (oily)

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, muscle, bone, fat, nerve, reproductive

Avoid if – suffering from lung congestion, or weak digestion

The literal translation of the word ‘Shatavari’ is a woman with a hundred husbands,’ indicating that this plant is superior for supporting the female reproductive system. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory.

Shatavari provides strength, enhances sexual appetite, and supports the female reproductive system, fertility, and menstruation. It is a nervine tonic; nourishing for the nervous system and bone marrow. Although known as a female plant, Shatavari also promotes sperm production and enhances sperm quality.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) | Ocimum sanctum

Rasa (taste) – bitter, pungent

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – dry, light, penetrating

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, nerve, reproductive

Avoid if – suffering severe respiratory disorders or overheated

Tulsi or Holy Basil is a very sacred plant. It is very Sattvic, therefore, imparts the quality of lightness and spiritual clarity and is an excellent herb for reducing heaviness, congestion, and phlegm. It is considered one of the best herbs for mood elevation and reducing anxiety and stress.

Tulsi is good for alleviating fever, improving respiration and breathing, and is used to treat coughing. It also supports the digestive fire and has a particular affinity for the skin and heart. Sabja (Tulsi seeds) are effective in cases of painful urination and UTIs.

Moringa | Moringa oleifera

Rasa (taste) – bitter, pungent

Veerya (metabolic effect) – heating

Vipaka (post-digestive effect) – pungent

Guna (qualities) – dry, light, penetrating

Dhatu (tissues) – Plasma, blood, nerve, fat, bone

Avoid if – menstruating, bleeding, or overheated

Moringa or Shigru is a powerful cleanser. ‘Shigru’ means ‘arrow,’ indicating the fast, sharp, and penetrating action of Morniga inside the tissues, reaching deep into the bones and bone marrow.

It has extractive qualities. It cleanses the blood, strengthens immunity, detoxifies the skin, and reduces inflammation in the body. Moringa is alkaline, improves vision, treats stomach worms and bloating, and decreases fat and obesity.