The Best Herbs to Have in Your Kitchen

by | Oct 11, 2017 | Ayurveda, ayurvediccooking, blog, body consitution, gut, guthealingprotocol, itchen, microbiome, microflora, microorganism, resin, root

      In Ayurveda your kitchen is your doctor’s office. Ayurveda heals through the gut. The importance of gut heath in Ayurveda is the key to removing toxins (Ama) from the body. Our “gut”, also known as our microbiome or microflora, is made up of around 100 trillion microorganisms from more than 1000 species. These microoorganisms regulate metabolism, protect against infections, promote normal GI function, synthesize essential nutrients, and regulate the immune system. 60-80% of our immune system is located in our gut, so that’s why our prescription comes in the form of herbs, spices, and roots.
Here is our list of the top herbs, spices, and roots that everyone should have in their kitchen. This does not include salt and black pepper, which are both great heating agents. All of these spices can be found at a local health food grocery store.

1. Turmeric- Turmeric is our most recommended spice for everyone to have in their kitchen. Turmeric is actually a root that is ground into a spice. Black pepper acts as an activating ingredient for turmeric.

  • Antibiotic while also increasing intestinal flora.
  • Incredible anti-inflammatory principles.
  • Strong antioxidant.
  • Protects the heart.
  • Reduces arthritis and obesity.
  • Boosts the brain power.
  • May be helpful in fighting cancer and diabetes.
2. Ginger- Ginger is known as “the universal medicine.” It is a great heating agent.
  • Reduces digestive issues.
  • Reduces nausea.
  • Reduces Kapha and increases digestive fire.
  • Helps with colds cough, and vomiting.
  • Tonic for the heart.
  • Relieves gas and cramping.
3.  Whole Coriander Seeds and Whole Cumin Seeds- We prefer whole seeds to ground to insure freshness. The whole seeds give a bust of flavor rathe than a muted blend of flavors often found in curry spice blends. Coriander and cumin are great household remedy for heat related disorders.
  • Great for the digestive tract and the urinary system.
  • Great digestive agents.
  • Increases digestion and absorption of nutrients.
  • Good if suffering from diarrhea and dysentery.
  • They are great to use together with fennel seeds for digestive disorders.
4. Fenugreek Seeds- Fenugreek is a great herbal food for any nervous, respiratory, and reproductive issues.
  • Known to reduce symptoms of Diabetes Type II with an Ayurvedic diet.
  • Can increase milk flow and promote hair growth.
  • Helps reduce indigestion, debility, and hypo-function of the liver.
5. Flaxseeds- Flaxseeds are a great tonic for the colon and lungs. (Add on top of foods like a supplement.)
  • Strengthen lung tissues and help heal lung membranes.
  • Contain natural calcium and protein.
  • Support and strengthen bones and reproductive organs.
  • High in fiber.
  • Great for hair and skin with an amazing amount of essential vitamins and Omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Asafoetida- Asafoetida is a great resin to digest and break down beans and legumes.
  • Powerful digestive agent as it removes food from the GI tract.
  • Breaks down accumulations from excess meat or junk food in the body.
  • Kills intestinal worms.
  • Cleanses and strengthens the intestinal flora.
  • Relieves the body of gas pain, flatulence, and cramping.

Other “spices” that we highly recommend are: cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and chia seeds.

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