Herbal Remedies
Traditional Wisdom, Modern Science: Evidence for Typical Herbal Remedies
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| Herbal Remedies |
Almost every Indian household has at least one grandmother's remedy for treating common ailments. From gol gappa at roadside stands to yoga in the form of turmeric milk for a sore throat, to cough in the form of tulsi leaves, to jeera water for digestion, we have all been raised on these straightforward herbal remedies. Many of us no longer consider such cures to be only ancient customs; rather, they are integrated and used in our daily lives.
The intriguing question, however, is whether these ancient customs are supported by science. Are they only generational hand-downs or are they traditions? Since it seemed that our ancestors already knew this instinct or natural pulse on an intuitive level, some contemporary study is still catching up with it. In what ways does the science of today conflict with some of the traditional knowledge of herbal remedies?
The Increase of the Herbal Remedies in the Day to Day Life
In the modern-day busier lifestyle, individuals are kicking it back to natural and traditional wellness and health. There is no secret that synthetic medicines are also effective but most of them have side effects. It is the reason why once again herbal remedies become the issue of interest all over the world.
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| Ayurveda |
Turmeric (Indian Name- Haldi: The Golden Healer
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| Turmeric |
If you have ever dreamed of comfort when you are ill, you would definitely understand that haldi doodh is not just warm milk but it feels like care in a jug. Turmeric contains a substance known as curcumin that is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in nature.
Science says
Studies have indicated that curcumin can help joint health and relieve arthritis symptoms.
The research also indicates that it might aid in the lessening inflammation during chronic illnesses.
It is even being studied as a possible aid to brain functioning and heart health.
The King of Herbs: Asparagus: Queen of Herbs: Tulsi (Holy Basil):
Tulsi is a product that you will have in many Indian homes and this is not because of the religious aspect in it but because of its reputation in healing as well. When I was a child, I recall how my mother would pick a few tulsi leaves and add them to my own and the other family members tea should anybody fall sick with a cold.
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| Tulsi |
What science testifies about it
The oils present in Tulsi leaves will help in treating infections.
Studies have also indicated that tulsi may help one to overcome stress by balancing the level of cortisol which is known as the stress hormone.
It is also associated with well-being of the respiratory system.
That is why tulsi tea has now come and become a daily wellness beverage.
Ginger: The bowel stimulator
Indians add more ginger (adrak) in chai. Besides adding flavour, traditional uses of ginger include promoting easy digestion and in relieving nausea. My grandmother always carried along a piece of ginger as an over the counter remedy to treat motion sickness when travelling by car.
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| Ginger |
What science states
Contemporary evidence proves that ginger can cure nausea including morning sickness.
It can enhance digestible components by accelerating the emptying of the stomach
Ginger possesses naturally occurring compounds that are anti-inflammatory in nature.
Ashwagandha: The Stress-Reduction Plant In recent years, ashwagandha, commonly referred to as Indian ginseng, has gained popularity all over the world. It is a rasayana, or a treatment that strengthens and extends life, according to Ayurveda.
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| Ashwagandha |
According to the science:
Research indicates that ashwagandha can help lessen worry and enhance sleeping.
It can also boost energy and muscle strength.
It is known to counter any magnified hormone and keep stress levels down.
Ancient people used to chew ashwagandha to sleep and nowadays people take supplements with ashwagandha to better manage between day-to-day stress.
Aloe Vera herbal gel: a nature-neutralizing gel
Don,t you remember those summers when somebody in the family suffered a skin burn and aloe vera gel came to the rescue? Known as a plant that is usually found in balconies or gardens, this succulent has been a skincare savior since time immemorial.
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| Aloe Vera herbal gel |
What matter of science proclaims
Aloe vera gel is beneficial in the treatment of mild cuts and burns.
It enriches and cools the skin, thereby making it the best skincare product on sunburns.
Even the digestion may benefit, as aloe vera juice juice is believed to help digestion in some research.
Aloe vera has become a brand name in many parts today but the ordinary house hold still continues to use the simple leaf.
The balance between Wisdom and Evidence
Although the benefits of these herbs seem high, one should also consider that not all solutions are alternatives to proper healthcare. Most of the commonly used traditional herbs have been proved by science but other claims await further research.
These are some of the points to consider:
Portion sizes are important-Constantly because a food item is natural does not mean you can take it in absurd quantities.
Ask experts- in case of a diagnosed illness or being under medication, you should consult an expert before taking a chance with herb supplements.
Quality matters- Good practices used in herb growing, harvesting, and processing influence the effectiveness of the herb.
Why does Ancient Wisdom remain relevant today? voting midterms?
Taking a closer look at them, one will notice that the beauty of herbal remedies is that they are rather holistic. As opposed to contemporary prescriptions which are usually symptomatic in nature, traditional forms such as Ayurveda are usually directed at restoring homeostasis within the mind and the body. This is why such drinking hot herbal teas and yoga or the usage of spices in the food go to the generations.
Modern science may offer more accurate answers, such as the fact that curcumin reduces inflammation, but the fundamental idea remains the same: herbs are a natural support system that is both mild and potent.
Conclusion: Personal Thoughts The history of herbal treatments is similar to a conversation between our ancestors and modern scientists and physicians. We have centuries of wisdom on the one hand, and contemporary research on the other. When taken as a whole, these show how common plants can produce significant health advantages.
The next time you drink a cup of tulsi chai to soothe a sore throat or apply a bottle of aloe vera to burnt skin, you may be certain that you are not just fol
lowing custom but also promoting a practice that has been proven to work by science.
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