When it comes to weight loss, Ayurveda has a lot to offer. After all, the ancient Indian medical system takes a holistic approach to health care. It is not just concerned with disease treatment, but focuses on maintenance of health and disease prevention. A key aspect of this is obesity prevention and weight management. Obesity was recognized as a threat to human health in Ayurveda, although the problem was not as widespread in ancient times. In addition to dietary and lifestyle recommendations that are essential for weight loss, Ayurveda also provides us with some of the best weight loss remedies.
The Best Ayurvedic Weight Loss Remedies
1. Guggul
The resin of the mukul herb, guggul is one of Ayurveda’s most valued herbal ingredients. Incidentally, it is an important ingredient in most weight loss medicines because of its proven benefits. Some research indicates that the herb’s active ingredient encourages the breakdown of fat cells, thereby leading to weight loss. It is also known to lower the risk of health problems associated with obesity, such as high cholesterol levels and heart disease.
2. Chilies
Chilies are known to be extremely heating, but you can use any of the herbs in the chili family to spice up meals. This includes chilies, chili peppers, and jalapenos. These veggies can work as a weight loss remedy because of the presence of the capsaicin compound. Studies suggest that capsaicin can boost metabolism and trigger the burning of fat.
3. Black Pepper
Black pepper is another common culinary spice in India that is also used as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda. Aside from its delectable pungent flavor, black pepper also offers a wide range of health benefits. These benefits are linked to the presence of a bioactive compound called piperine. We now know that piperine exerts a fat reducing and lipid regulating influence, lending support to the ancient Ayurvedic weight loss remedy.
4. Sunth
Sunth or ginger is one of the most widely used herbs today and it can be consumed in a wide variety of forms — as a herbal tea, in food, chewed raw, or in Ayurvedic herbal medications. In western medicine, ginger is recognized as a natural medicine for nausea, but there is a growing recognition of its traditional uses in Ayurveda too. Research shows that the herb can aid weight loss efforts as it may enhance thermogenesis, speeding up the burning of calories and fat.
5. Triphala
Triphala is not an individual herb, but is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation that has been passed down to us from some of the earliest Ayurvedic texts. It comprises of three herbs — amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Like many Ayurvedic herbs, these ingredients are most effective when used together. There is evidence showing that the polyherbal formulation can help regulated blood sugar levels, which reduces sugar spikes and food cravings. This in turn promotes greater weight loss.
6. Kalonji
Kalonji or black cumin is another herbal ingredient that is familiar to most Indians. We can also benefit from its traditional Ayurvedic use as a weight loss aid. Studies show that both kalonji seeds and oils can promote weight loss. The mechanism of action is still not understood as research is still in the preliminary stages.
7. Honey and Lemon Juice
Yes, this requires both ingredients as it is again the combination that makes a difference. Try to use juice from a full lemon in a glass of warm water, with no more than 2 teaspoons of honey. Make sure to follow this guidance as warm water is believed to aid weight loss. Likewise, honey isn’t just a healthy alternative to sugar, but directly aids weight loss. Honey has lipid-lowering effects, while vitamin C aids fat oxidation.
8. Curry Leaves
It’s an ingredient that you will find in every Indian kitchen, yet most of us don’t recognize its medicinal value. The herb’s therapeutic effects are linked to carbazole alkaloids that give it antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research also suggests that curry leaves can aid weight loss because of a lipid regulating effect, lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels. You can simply wash and consume or add the leaves to your cooking to aid weight loss.
9. Vijaysar
Vijaysar is commonly used as an Ayurvedic medicinal ingredient to treat digestive disorders. While this in itself can have a positive effect on weight loss, the herb may directly target stubborn belly fat. Although more research is needed, early studies have already shown fat reduction benefits in rats. The herb can be consumed in the form of a herbal tea, but it may be easier to access it as a herbal supplement.
10. Dalchini
Dalchini or cinnamon is another Indian spice that came to be highly valued across the world for its distinctive flavor. However, dalchini isn’t just a valuable flavoring ingredient. It is also effective as a natural weight loss remedy, traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat obesity. These benefits are linked to a metabolism boosting effect and cardio protective benefits. The spice can be added to cooked foods, milk, tea, and in a powdered form may also be combined with the lemon honey juice remedy.
Ayurvedic remedies for weight loss are extremely effective and safe. While you can use all of these herbs and Ayurvedic weight loss medicines to manage bodyweight, they are not a substitute for healthy eating and exercise.
References:
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