Chyawanprash is a highly respected Ayurvedic preparation that has been a household name in most Indian homes for generations, especially during the winter season. Famous for its highly concentrated herbal, fruit, and spice mixture, it's highly acclaimed for its immunity-enhancing and rejuvenating qualities. However, when the mercury level starts rising and the summer season begins, the obvious question on most lips tends to be: can we still enjoy the benefits of Chyawanprash in the summer months, or is it meant for winter alone?
We contacted our expert Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, General Physician and Senior Consultant, Sharda Hospital - Noida, and asked the same question and here is what he shared with us.
Is Chyawanprash A Winter Marvel or Seasonal Saviour?
Historically, Chyawanprash has been linked with cold weather intake. Its warming properties and emphasis on supporting immunity against cough and cold have made that a common perception. But this belief could be an exaggeration, as expounded by Dr Srivastav.
"Chyawanprash is indeed a fantastic immunomodulator," says Dr. Srivastav. "Its rich composition, particularly the high content of Amla (Indian Gooseberry), makes it a powerhouse of Vitamin C and antioxidants. While it's true that it helps in building resilience during winter, its benefits extend beyond just fighting seasonal colds."
Understanding the Ingredients: Heating vs. Cooling Properties
The fear of taking Chyawanprash in summer frequently arises from the thought of the "heating" quality of some of the ingredients, including ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. These spices have thermogenic properties, generating heat in the body.
But Dr Srivastav points to the integrated character of Chyawanprash. "Though some ingredients are warming, the entire composition of Chyawanprash is meant to balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in the body. It's not just a combination of isolated ingredients but a synergistic combination," he explains.
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He also points out the major contribution of Amla, a naturally cooling and potent antioxidant. "Amla is the major component of Chyawanprash, and it helps counteract the warming action of other spices. Its cooling nature assists in lessening any excess heat that the preparation may cause."
Can We Consume Chyawanprash During Summer?
The answer is affirmative, says Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, with certain precautions.
"Summer consumption of Chyawanprash is absolutely alright for healthy people and may even be beneficial," says Dr Srivastav. He provides additional information on how Chyawanprash may be useful in summer:
1. Boost to Immunity
In summer too, our immune system is under the attack of several factors such as environmental allergens, pollution, and higher mobility. Chyawanprash can support strong immunity.
2. Antioxidant Power
The abundance of antioxidants helps combat free radical damage, which can be heightened during summer due to increased exposure to sun and heat.
3. Digestive Support
Some individuals experience digestive issues during summer due to changes in diet or increased consumption of raw foods. Chyawanprash can aid in healthy digestion.
4. Overall Wellness
It serves as a tonic overall, enhancing vitality and energy levels, which may tend to fall in the summer temperatures.
Key Summer Consumption Considerations
Though normally safe, Dr. Srivastav recommends a few changes and considerations for summer intake:
1. Decrease the Dosage
"If you're used to taking a tablespoon during winter, cut it down to half a teaspoon or one teaspoon during summer," advises Dr. Srivastav. "This prevents any possible sensation of over-heat, particularly in people who have a Pitta constitution."
2. Timing is everything
He suggests taking it in the morning, on an empty stomach, or with milk. "Taking it with milk can also assist in balancing any warming effect," he states. Do not take it just before or after heavy meals.
3. Listen to Your Body
"The most significant tip is to listen to your body," says Dr. Srivastav. "If you experience any discomfort, too much heat, or digestive disturbance after having Chyawanprash during summer, it's best to further lessen the dose or talk to an Ayurvedic practitioner or your doctor."
4. Individual Constitution (Prakriti)
Those who have a predominant Pitta constitution and are warmer in nature by temperament may be more susceptible to the heating action of certain ingredients. They need to be more cautious and use lower quantities.
5. Quality Matters
Always use a high-quality brand of Chyawanprash to derive maximum benefit, ensuring the quality and purity of the ingredients.
Bottomline
To sum up, the idea that Chyawanprash is only a winter medicine may not hold true anymore. As Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav affirms, with careful consumption and consideration of personal body types, Chyawanprash can very much be a worthwhile addition to your health routine even in the summer season. Its many benefits, especially its strong immune system stimulation and antioxidant properties, make it an all-year round companion to overall wellness. So, please do go ahead, enjoy your Chyawanprash, and absorb its goodness, rain or shine!