By Gir Gauveda
Did you know Ayurveda is possibly the richest treasure of information on herbs & foods?
Ayurveda is possibly the richest ancient treasure house of information on a vast variety of herbs and foods. Every herb and food ingredient has been meticulously studied and systematically documented by ancient Rishis and Vaidyas of Bharat. Sadly, in the age of fast foods and modern healthcare, much of this knowledge is lost. 'Food as medicine' was the maxim in ancient Bharat, which is now increasingly being replaced by quick-fix pills and fast-acting allopathic 'medicines' most of which suppress symptoms while leaving the root cause unaddressed.
All is not lost, however... Much of this knowledge is still alive with ancient books and Vaidraj. Kitchens in Bharat still abound in spices which have enormous medicinal qualities. We bring you some of these herbs, many of them being common household spices while some other being lesser known. We hope that this knowledge will help you make more informed food choices, and help you in times of minor illnesses.
How does Ayurveda view Lemongrass?
Lemongrass is a magical herb that is helpful in gastrointestinal discomfort, asthma, cough, rheumatic pain, infections, worm infestation, etc. Lemongrass also has anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer and hypocholesterolemic properties. Lemongrass also helps to calm the nerves and promotes better sleep.
Qualities of Lemongrass
Ø Rasa (taste) - Katu (pungent), Tikhta (bitter)
Ø Virya (potency) - Ushna (hot)
Ø Guna (qualities) - Tikshna (sharp, penetrating), Laghu (light to digest).
Ø Effect on Dosha - Reduces Vata and Kapha Doshas, may increase Pitta Dosha.
Therapeutic Actions
Ø Rochana - improves taste
Ø Deepana - strengthens the digestive fire
Ø Mukhashodanam - cleans the oral cavity
Ø Bahuvitkancha - facilitates evacuation of waste products.
Indications
General supplement to boost overall well-being, cold & cough, stomach discomfort, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, rheumatic pain, viral infections, worm infestation, etc.
How to Use
Lemongrass can be taken even without the supervision of an Ayurvedic Vaidya. It has a refreshing lemony flavour and is the principal ingredient in the popular Gujarati beverage 'Lili Cha'. This herb can be enjoyed in various ways -
1. Boil 1 teaspoon in water, add salt, mishri, jaggery or other spices like cinnamon or ginger to taste, filter & enjoy hot or cold. Natural Honey can also be added after this liquid has cooled down.
2. You may also use this to enhance the flavour of your 'masala chai'. Just add along with tea leaves while it brews in water.
3. Make a paste by blending with cold-pressed oil, ginger, turmeric or seasonal raw mango. This paste can be added to soups, curries, etc.
How to get Lemongrass
1. This herb can be easily grown in your backyard or building society garden and consumed fresh. For the best flavour and health benefits, make sure you nourish the plant with natural and organic manure.
2. If this is not possible, you can easily buy this herb in its organic form at any of the SOSE Organic & Natural Stores or through our website.