For thousands of years, the ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, has been practised. Ayurveda has been long emphasising on the importance of maintaining a healthy gut and digestive system for overall well being. Ayurveda refers to the digestive system as ‘agni’, which literally translates to fire.
If the digestive agni is strong and balanced, digestion is carried out well and nutrients are properly absorbed. This helps in building strong immunity and faster tissue repair. In case of weak digestive fire, issues like diarrhoea, bloating, acidity, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome can arise.Many things available handy to you in your kitchen can help you overcome your digestive problems and provide you with optimum bowel health. Below are the remedies which work best for your digestive fire.
Triphala
Triphala is an ayurvedic medicine long used in India for various ailments. A mixture of amla, baheda and haritaki, triphala is packed with nutrition. Triphala is known to cleanse gut health. It can help you improve metabolism and enhances your bowel movement in the morning if consumed at night. A study states, “Polyphenols in Triphala modulate the human gut microbiome and thereby promote the growth of beneficial Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus while inhibiting the growth of undesirable gut microbes.” The anti-inflammatory properties of triphala soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation.
Ghee
Yes, ghee comes under fats but healthy ones. Ghee is extremely important for smoothening the bowel system. If you consume it in the morning empty stomach, it relieves your bowels and smoothes your bowel movement. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Hetal Chheda, Clinical Nutritionist and Dietitian, Mumbai, said, “Consuming ghee on an empty stomach in the morning aids digestion. Ghee is rich in saturated fats, fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D, and has potential anti-inflammatory properties.” According to a study, ghee increases digestive fire, optimising the digestive system.
Hing
Hing, also known as asafoetida, is recommended to use while cooking as it prevents bloating and enhances digestion. It ignites the digestive fire and burns away toxins, thus promoting digestion. It prevents a number of gastric problems and relieves bowel ailments. I remember my grandmother used to give me a spoonful of hing, mixed in water whenever I would have stomach aches. It worked better than painkillers for me.
Ginger
The most popular and taste enhancing herbal remedy, ginger is long used for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda. Ginger is rich in antioxidants which helps in reducing inflammation in the digestive tract aiding the bowel movements. Ginger also helps in relieving constipation, reducing gas and bloating. Its pungent taste would improve the taste of any dish that you prepare and keep your digestive health happy.
Aloe Vera
As per study, Aloe vera is a natural laxative that helps in softening stools and relieving bowels. It helps in reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and enhances gut health. It also helps in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We advise you to visit a doctor or ayurvedic expert if you are facing any gut related issues.)