From upping your energy levels to boosting your love life and brain power – discover four of the best super spices and herbal heroes to get you feeling good this autumn
Boost energy and stamina with ashwagandha, Withania somnifera
In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is known as a ‘rasayana’ meaning a rejuvenative. Rasayanas enhance both the quality and quantity of life, nourishes the mind and enhances vigour, making them perfect for weak, debilitated or exhausted conditions. This has made ashwagandha one of Ayurveda’s most prized herbs as a truly superior rejuvenative tonic to the whole body and mind. Interestingly the Sanskrit word ‘ashwagandha’ is translated as ‘the smell of a horse’ which reflects its ability to bring you the essence of a horse; strength and stamina nourishing the body and mind. Ashwagandha is a modern-day adaptogen, supporting our body’s resistance to physical and emotional stress. However, this herb is unusual in that it is a tonic and sedative all in one; a calming adaptogen. It will strengthen an exhausted or agitated nervous system whilst at the same time calming it. Ashwagandha brings us energy through supporting deeper rest.
Enhance your love life with shatavari, Asparagus racemosa
The name shatavari is derived from the Sanskrit words shat, which means ‘100’ and vri, which means ‘root’. The word vari can also mean ‘husband’ which may explain why shatavari is often referred to as ‘she who has a hundred husbands’. The association with husbands and fertility is also a reference to the traditional uses of the roots of this plant, which for centuries have been used to treat and nourish reproductive health. Shatavari contains constituents that help balance out the key sex hormones, oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It’s able to encourage hormonal balance whilst also boosting libido and fertility. Although it has become famous for its benefits to women, shatavari also boosts men’s fertility, so a winner all round! Try treating your health and taste buds to warm cup of Cocoa Maca Magic
Improve memory and cognitive function with holy basil, tulsi, Ocimum sanctum
Holy basil, the name often given to the herb tulsi, will awaken the mind bringing mental clarity whilst also relaxing the nervous system, allowing time for the restoration of adrenal glands that have become exhausted by trauma, depression or anxiety. It modulates the stress response, increases adaptive energy and nourishes the vital spirit.
Ease pain and boost joint heath with turmeric, Curcuma longa
Turmeric, also known as the ‘Golden Goddess’ in India, has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic traditions as a medicinal herb as well as an essential ingredient in every curry. Pigments known as curcuminoids give this radiant-root its characteristic vibrant yellow colour. These pigments are also responsible for the primary medicinal properties of this root. Turmeric is a well-known anti-inflammatory, sharing many properties with its relative, ginger, such as pain relief and boosting circulation, making it perfect for supporting joint health. The availability of these powerful yellow pigments in the body can be significantly increased simply through the presence of the roots’ natural volatile oils and a constituent found in pepper known as piperine. Piperine enhances digestion and micro circulation, making cur cumin 2000 times more bioavailable than when taken alone. Add turmeric to your cooking, make a juice shot, or try a warming Organic Latte Tumeric Gold
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