Best Ayurveda Product 2021: Shopping Guide &#038; Review

CDN$ 50.99

Tea is a fundamental part of the Ayurvedic diet, and this specific blend has been used in India for centuries. It combines the incredible properties of cumin, coriander, and fennel to improve your digestion and support your metabolism. This non-GMO and gluten-free product is vegan-friendly and certified organic.

In addition, this tea calms the mind and improves mental clarity. In Ayurveda, this tea is known for balancing your doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. And you also ought to know that it cleanses and detoxifies the body, increases metabolism and supports weight loss.

Rootalive Organic Ashwagandha Root Powder, 454g

Best Ayurvedic Powder

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CDN$ 27.86

Native to India, Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years for a variety of conditions. It is said to be rejuvenating, restorative and strengthening. In fact, the Sanskrit word ‘ashwagandha’ means ‘smell of the horse’, which refers to both its unique smell and ability to increase strength. It has a slightly bitter flavor, so it pairs well with sweet foods.

With this versatil powder you can make ashwagandha tea with warm milk or water and a touch of honey. And, of course, you can add it to smoothies!

Best Shatavari Supplement

Shatavari is another popular ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine, and Herb Pharm brings you this non-GMO liquid extract so you can reap all the benefits of this plant. The asparagus racemosus plants used in its manufacture are certified organically grown for genuine natural goodness. This gluten-free supplement is particularly helpful in supporting women’s reproductive systems.

Important to mention too is the fact that this item in organic, vegan, and gluten free. It is easily absorbed by the body and also free of synthetic solvents.

Ashwagandha 1000mg Per Serving (500mg Per Capsule) 60 Capsules Anti Stress Adrenal Fatigue Lack of Energy Difficulty Concentrating Ayurvedic Withania Somnifera Root Powder Extract Withanolides 1.5% Supplement Non-GMO

Best Ashwagandha Supplement

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CDN$ 18.99

This best-selling Ayurvedic product promotes a healthy mental state by significantly reducing restlessness, cortisol, and stress to healthy levels in the body. This product is a great natural alternative to help the body curb non-specific digestive problems or reliance on stimulants and ultimately adrenal fatigue too.

Additionally, this product is made without the use of artificial additives, wheat, dairy, yeast or gluten. Also, this supplement is carefully packed into a convenient 60-capsule bottle with a flip top cap for easier capsule dispensing.

Sewanti Triphala Powder, 200g

Best Triphala Supplement

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CDN$ 11.99

Certified organic triphala powder – haritaki, bhibhitaki and amalaki triphala is a gentle, nourishing blend of three certified organic fruits: amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Triphala can also be used to cleanse the eyes, mouth and nose by preparing a tea and using in a neti pot. It has been traditionally used in Ayurveda as a laxative for the relief of occasional constipation. And it is also know as a digestive tonic to promote digestive fire, increase appetite and aid in digestion.

There are many traditional uses related to this product as of the relief of amlapitta, stomatchic, as a laxative, to cure coughs and a lot more. Its manufacturer also points out the use of this product for alleviating the symptoms caused by diarrhea.

Shopping Guide: Everything You Should Know About Ayurveda

Ayurveda is much more than a simple plant-based diet. This way of life addresses the human being holistically, without separating the physical dimension from the spiritual and mental one. In the section below, we will delve into the basic principles of Ayurveda, the specificities of its diet, and answer the most common questions regarding this medicinal system.

Grupo de personas en yoga — Ayurveda sees the human being as a unified whole, a perfect union between body, mind, and soul.
(Source: Dolgachov: 80282633/ 123rf.com)

What is Ayurveda exactly?

Originating in India over 3,000 years ago, Ayurveda is the traditional medicinal system of this Asian country. Today, Western society is increasingly interested in the practice of Ayurveda to improve the quality of life, promote longevity, and prevent diseases affecting the various systems of the body (, ).

Ayurvedic medicine uses different techniques and natural products to maintain or restore the balance in the body-mind-spirit union of the human being. Imbalance leads to disease, which is why Ayurveda focuses on restoring this balance rather than dealing with symptoms (1, 2).

What are the doshas?

Also referred to as biotypes or life forces, the doshas are the combinations of the five natural elements – air, space (or ether), fire, earth, and water. Each person consists of these elements that give them unique physical and mental attributes. The three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, coexist in every individual, although one or two will always predominate (, , ).

All of us were born with a specific balance between these doshas. When factors such as stress, a poor diet, or lack of rest disturb it, your body faces symptoms and illnesses (2). You must consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine your dominant doshas.

National Ayurvedic Medical Association

“The Sanskrit term Ayurveda translates to “knowledge of life”, and the principles of this ancient wisdom remind us that the entire web of life is intricately interwoven. With a unique emphasis on total wellness, the art and science of Ayurveda work to harmonize our internal and external worlds.”

What are the characteristics of each dosha?

As we mentioned earlier, each of these life forces is linked to specific physical and personality traits. Vata (ether and air) is associated with breathing, coordination, and movement. Pitta (fire and water) corresponds to metabolic reactions and temperature, while Kapha (water and earth) is related to growth and support (, , ).

The three biotypes are present in everyone. However, the dominant dosha determines the particularities of an individual, as well as the lifestyle they should lead to maintain or regain balance. Here are the main characteristics of these life forces (2, 3):

	Vata	Pitta	Kapha
Physical characteristics	Thinness. Narrow shoulders and hips. Tall or short stature. Changing appetite. They may skip meals or have irregular eating times. Cold hands and feet. Dry, thin skin. Dull eyes. Difficulty gaining weight. Tendency to constipation, irritable colon, cramps, psoriasis, and insomnia.	Average build. Gaining weight and muscle mass is easier than for Vata. Good appetite. Excessive thirst, even at night. Efficient digestion. Hot, pale skin with freckles, moles, or redness. Hair with a tendency to gray. At the digestive level, tendency to acidity, stomach ulcers, and hemorrhoids. Common presence of acne or rashes on the skin.	Oily, soft, pale skin. May have pimples. Large eyes, with bags under them. Corpulent, gain weight easily with a tendency to obesity. Slow digestion. Resistance to disease. Predisposition to suffer from joint pain, angina pectoris, and sinusitis.
Personality traits	Tendency to anxiety and depression. Changing energy levels. In a hurry when walking and performing other activities. Changing mood. Great imagination and creativity.	Irritability. Intellectuality. Punctual, dislike wasting time. Good ability to concentrate. Maintain order.	Patient, carefree, do not get angry easily. Energy levels remain stable. Affectionate. Good memory.

How do I maintain or restore the balance between the doshas?

When faced with a symptom or a disease, Ayurvedic medicine seeks to restore the balance in the affected individual through different strategies. These include the most appropriate diet according to the doshas, meditation, yoga, adequate rest, massage therapy, phytotherapy, and aromatherapy (, ).

Ayurveda also uses more invasive techniques, such as surgery, with various specialties like geriatrics, gynecology, internal medicine, and otolaryngology (1). If you are not experiencing any illness, the Ayurvedic system implies living a lifestyle that prevents diseases and allows you to live a long and healthy life.

What are the principles of the Ayurvedic diet?

Broadly speaking, every dosha has its own diet; foods that benefit Vata may not be ideal for Pitta or Kapha, for example. However, the following basic guidelines of the Ayurvedic diet apply to all life forces (, , ):

Avoid processed and ultra-processed foods (canned goods, sausages, pre-fried frozen products, junk food) Choose fresh food sources, free from additives and preservatives.
Plant-based, seasonal, and cooked foods are the best option for your meals. However, the Ayurvedic diet doesn’t involve eliminating meat, dairy products, fish, or eggs. You will simply need to reduce their consumption.
Cook and eat in a quiet and pleasant atmosphere. Stress and tension during these times are as harmful as eating poor quality or inadequate food. Keep in mind that Ayurveda always favors a joint approach to the well-being of body, mind, and spirit.
Eat your meals at regular times.
Avoid excess food and have an early dinner.
Keep your kitchen clean and tidy.
Try having a varied diet that is attractive for all your senses – not only for the taste.
Choose organic foods that have been grown without synthetic agrochemicals (fertilizers or pesticides).
Make sure that you have plenty of legumes, whole grains, spices (turmeric, laurel, dill, coriander, black pepper), and vegetables every day.
Include the six flavors in every meal: bitter, sweet, spicy, astringent, sour, and salty.

Leche dorada — Golden milk is a typical hot drink of Ayurvedic medicine.
(Source: Rubisco: 70366812/ 123rf.com)

What are the most commonly used dietary supplements in Ayurveda?

Many natural products are used in Ayurvedic medicine, such as ginger, turmeric, and Garcinia (). Some of them are compatible with all three doshas, while others favor one particular life force. Here is a list of the most popular Ayurvedic supplements:

Curcuma: the rhizome of the Curcuma longa L. plant is a source of curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antibacterial, digestive, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant properties. It is recommended in cases of type II diabetes, gastrointestinal ulcers, flatulence, and inflammatory disorders (arthritis) (8, 9).
Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng: the Withania somnifera plant is helpful in cases of weakness, fatigue, anxiety, intense chronic stress, and insomnia. It strengthens the immune system and has a rejuvenating effect on the organism. It may help prevent neurodegenerative conditions, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (7, 10, 11).
Shatavari: The root of the Asparagus racemosus plant is taken to produce supplements. In Ayurveda, Shatavari is primarily used by women as it stimulates the production of breast milk (galactagogue). It helps to strengthen the immune system, and its potential to improve female fertility is currently under study (7, 12).
Gotu kola: Also known as Indian pennywort, it improves memory, lowering blood pressure, and promotes healing of gastric ulcers. Its venotonic properties contribute to reducing the weakness of blood capillaries while relieving varicose and spider veins (13).
Triphala: This polyherbal supplement consists of the fruits of the Terminalia bellerica, Terminalia chebula, and Emblica officinalis plants. Its laxative effect makes it efficient in treating chronic constipation. In addition, it promotes intestinal health and integrity by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon (7, 14).

How can I make golden milk?

Typical of Ayurvedic medicine, this hot beverage provides all the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of turmeric while comforting those who drink it. It’s quick and easy to prepare, too:

Heat at least 200 milliliters of skimmed cow’s milk or vegetable milk (oats, soy, almond, coconut).
Add 1 level teaspoon of pure turmeric powder, half a teaspoon of ginger powder (optional) and a pinch of black pepper. Mix and continue preparing while stirring.
Add half a teaspoon of coconut oil or ghee (clarified butter).
When the milk is hot (before boiling point), remove the beverage from the heat, serve in a cup, and drink immediately. You may sweeten it with honey.

Did you know that, to determine the predominant dosha, the Ayurveda practitioner has to examine a person’s pulse, personality, tongue, face, eyes, urine, feces, voice, and skin?

Buyer’s Guide

You should purchase authentic, unaltered dietary supplements for them to be effective. Depending on the concentrations of active ingredients in each dosage form, the properties of the product will change and, therefore, so will the effect on your body. To make a successful purchase that will benefit you, pay attention to the following criteria:

Authenticity
Dosage Form
Quality Certifications

Authenticity

Traces of synthetic drugs from conventional medicine have been found in specific ayurvedic supplements formulated to alleviate inflammation and pain in cases of arthritis. This means that the product was contaminated and lacked authenticity (1).

Due to the lack of regulations by the relevant authorities, fake products and steroid (anti-inflammatory) adulterations in Ayurvedic supplements are commonplace. This is why it is essential that you look for products with the quality seals we will discuss later (15).

Hojas para té — Indian pennywort or Gotu kola is one of the most used ingredients in Ayurveda.
(Source: Kachatong: 40562171/ 123rf.com)

Dosage Form

In Ayurveda, dietary supplements come in various forms, from powder and capsules to liquid extracts and tablets. Capsules and tablets generally feature a standard concentration of active ingredients, are easy to ingest, and have an almost neutral taste. Powdered products, on the other hand, need to be dissolved in liquid before consumption.

Product	Dosage form	Recommended dose	Recommended consumption mode
Turmeric	Powder, capsules, and tablets	Powder: half to 1 teaspoon a day. Capsules and tablets: 1 to 2 units per day.	Powder: as a condiment or dissolved in cold or hot beverages. It should always be accompanied by black pepper or some oil to improve the assimilation of curcumin by the body. Capsules and tablets: ingest directly with water. They already contain black pepper (or piperine).
Shatavari	Powder, capsules, and tablets	Powder: 2 teaspoons per day. Capsules and tablets: 1 to 4 units per day.	Powder: dissolve it in water, juice, or smoothie. Capsules and tablets: ingest with water.
Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng)	Capsules and powder	Powder: 1 teaspoon per day. Capsules: 1 to 2 units per day.	Powder: mixed with water, fruit juices, or smoothies. Capsules: consume with water.
Gotu kola (Indian pennywort)	Capsules, powder, and liquid extract	Powder: 1 to 2 teaspoons a day. Capsules: 2 to 3 units a day. Liquid extract: 40 drops, 1 to 3 times a day.	Powder: dissolved in water or shakes. Capsules: ingest with water during a meal. Liquid extract: diluted in water.
Triphala	Capsules, powder, and tablets	Powder: 1 to 2 teaspoons daily. Start with 1 teaspoon per week and increase your intake gradually. Capsules and tablets: 1 to 2 units per day.	Powder: dissolved in water, shakes, or juice. Capsules and tablets: ingest with water during a meal.

Quality Certifications

Earlier, we discussed the importance of purchasing authentic, counterfeit-free supplements. GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) quality certifications guarantee that a product is safe for your health and authentic (13, 16).

In addition, these certifications ensure standardization of the manufacturing process, uniformity in concentrations of active ingredients, and hygienic handling from start to finish. There have been numerous reports of contamination of Ayurvedic supplements by heavy metals (17).

Medicina oriental — The three *doshas* or life forces of Ayurveda are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
(Source: Indianfoodimages: 104115128/ 123rf.com)