The concept of detoxifying the body has become popular in the modern era. But if we take a closer look, we’ll find that Ayurvedic vaidyas have been touting the benefits detoxification for thousands of years. Unlike modern detoxification goals, however, when using Ayurveda for detox , you are not limited to the digestive system and body — to function smoothly, effectively, and without impairment, the body, mind, and spirit must all be in harmony. Ama , Agni and Detoxification If we look at digestion through an Ayurvedic lens, we would understand that finding balance through the right kinds of foods, a centered lifestyle, and de-stressing techniques would all contribute to good health. The Sanskrit word for this harmonious state is Agni , the first word written in the Vedas. Its antithesis is Ama , which points to a toxic buildup. Ama results not only from dietary issues, but also from emotional, mental, and spiritual imbalances. Fortunately, Ayurveda has a prescription that has
Keeping our doshas balanced is an important part of maintaining a healthy body and mind throughout the entire year. Seasonal shifts are big news in the world of Ayurveda and can cause doshic imbalances if we aren’t honoring their cycles and living accordingly. While the summer season is a magical time of year, it is also Pitta season, and if we don’t adjust our diets and lifestyle to keep Pitta at bay, we risk accumulating excess heat in the body. A Pitta imbalance can show up as anger, irritation, loose stools, acid reflux, skin disorders, and more.
Herbs play a powerful role in Ayurveda and are an amazing way to keep doshas balanced during seasonal transitions. Include some of the following herbs in your self-care regime to prevent Pitta imbalance and feel your best all summer long.
Hibiscus typically grows in warm or tropical climates. The flower has a sweet taste and a cooling effect on the body, making it highly effective for balancing excess Pitta. Some of the benefits of Hibiscus include maintaining healthy skin and hair, supporting the liver, and promoting good circulation and blood health. Hibiscus can be taken internally as a tea for a delicious way to stay cool all season.
Neem is an evergreen tree that provides a variety of healing benefits. All parts of the Neem tree have been historically used to treat disorders in the mind and body. Neem is a cooling herb that can be used both internally and externally for Pitta-related conditions. It is highly cleansing for the blood and is especially useful for skin disorders such as acne, rosacea, or eczema. Neem is quite bitter in taste, which gives it powerful cooling properties to pacify excess Pitta. It can be applied topically on skin as an oil, or taken in capsule form for internal use.
Amalaki is a potent herb that is highly revered in Ayurvedic tradition. It is one of the three herbs included in the powerful Ayurvedic digestive formula Triphala. It is a fruit that nourishes tissues and detoxifies the body. Amalaki removes excess pitta from the system, cleanses the digestive tract, stimulates agni or our digestive fire, and is a natural antioxidant. It is typically taken alone instead of Triphala for those who have excess Pitta in their digestive tract. You can take Amalaki in capsule form or as a tea.
Pitta Balancing Tonic
Ingredients:
- Tsp dried hibiscus leaves
- ¼ tsp amalaki
- 2 cups hot water
- Fresh mint
- Tsp maple syrup
Directions:
- Place hibiscus and amalaki in a tea pot or mug and pour hot water over them. Steep for five minutes.
- Muddle a few fresh mint leaves and place them at the bottom of a mug.
- Strain the mixture and pour it into the mug. Add maple syrup and stir. Let it cool slightly before drinking and enjoy fresh.
Gabrielle Marchese
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