While it’s entirely possible to practice Ayurveda without any specific herbs or products (it’s mostly about what you eat and how you live, after all!), there are a few products I feel truly enhance my life and use practically daily.
Ayurveda celebrates the differences in people, realizing that no two people are exactly alike and different things will keep them in and out of balance. But GENERALLY speaking, the below Ayurveda goodies are beneficial for just about everyone. (Of course, if you have any questions related to your specific health situation, it’s always good to consult your doctor!)
Tongue scraper. Used daily upon wakeup, this helps to rid toxins from the mouth that have accumulated overnight. Fresh day, fresh start! One of these babies will last you a lifetime.
Nasya Oil. I put a few drops of this magic oil into my nostrils each evening during my bath (except if I have a cold, no good then!) It helps to keep the passages moisturized, and also provides brain clarity on a very subtle level. After talking with Ayurveda friends, I do feel like it’s one of those things people either love or hate, though!
Abhyanga Oil. I oil at least my feet (often my entire body) daily except during my period. I’ve gone through many different types of oil, ranging from fancy to basic, thick to light. It really depends on what you’re looking for and what type of skin you have, so I can’t say one kind is better than another. My current favorites are organic sweet almond oil (which I will sometimes drop essential oil into if I’m craving a scent)—this is very affordable and lasts a long time. I also love Everyday Oil, which feels and smells like a little luxury. The price point is higher, but used a bit more sparingly will also last a long time.
CCF Tea. Cumin, coriander, and fennel is a tea gentle enough to drink daily, and with its savory smell and taste gives a satisfying feeling in-between meals. It’s wonderful for digestion. Often my first tip to Ayurveda clients is to start sipping on this regularly.
Amalaki Powder. Derived from Indian Gooseberry Trees, this divine herb has so many benefits: maintains a healthy immune system, good for digestion, promotes proper elimination, good for stabilizing blood sugar, helps keep bones, teeth, nails, and hair healthy and strong, nourishes the heart and respiratory systems, and calms the mind. WOW, right?! I take it once a day, either dissolved in warm water as a tea, or sprinkled on a spoonful of honey and eaten.
Sending light and love,
Jess (Your Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Making Holistic Health Cozy, Not Clinical)
p.s. in case you missed it, here’s a deeper dive into why we scrape our tongue in Ayurveda!