Ayurveda

Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) is a well-known Ayurvedic herb, traditionally valued for its rejuvenating and stamina-supporting properties. Its name comes from the Sanskrit "Go" (cow) and a word for hoof, referring to the fruit's resemblance to a cow's hoof. In Ayurveda, Gokshura is traditionally used to support urinary comfort, reproductive wellness and general vitality, and is recognised for its traditional diuretic action.

Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), also called the “sugar destroyer”, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to support normal blood sugar levels. Its leaves contain gymnemic acids, compounds that can temporarily reduce the sensation of sweetness on the tongue and have been studied for their potential effects on glucose absorption and blood sugar regulation. Gudmar is commonly taken as a powder, tablet or extract alongside diet, exercise and prescribed treatment for diabetes and weight management, not as a replacement for them.

Green tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, valued for its rich content of antioxidants, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds. With a long history in traditional medicine, particularly in China and Japan, it has become an integral part of modern health practices due to its broad potential benefits. Green tea may help support cognitive function, assist in weight management, boost energy levels, and offer some protective effects against certain diseases, including cancer. This article explores the different types of green tea, their origins and alternative names, along with their benefits, possible drawbacks, and practical tips for maximizing their health advantages.

Grapes are small, juicy fruits of the vine Vitis vinifera, eaten fresh, dried as raisins, or pressed into juice. Known in Ayurveda as Draksha, they are valued as a sweet, cooling fruit and are a source of natural sugars, water, fibre, vitamin K, potassium and antioxidant polyphenols such as resveratrol. This article covers their nutrition, uses, benefits, sensible servings, side effects and precautions.

Giloy, also called Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), is a climbing shrub traditionally used in Ayurveda and known as a Rasayana, or rejuvenative. It is traditionally taken to support immunity and digestion and to help the body during mild, everyday fevers. It is used under guidance, in normal amounts, as supportive care alongside medical treatment, not as a replacement for it.

Ginger is a flower-based plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, similar to turmeric and cardamom. The plant's rhizome is commonly used as a spice and has many medicinal properties. It is used in Indian households for cooking, as well as in Ayurveda, and modern medicines treat a variety of ailments. Ginger is grown in hot and humid conditions, particularly in tropical rainforests. The temperature conditions required for the growth of ginger is 18-25 degrees. India is the largest producer of ginger. It is commonly found in Kerala, West Bengal, and the Northeastern region.

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, has been applied in several cultures for centuries and is used as a culinary and medicinal herb. The intense flavour and health benefits cause it to be included in multiple foods. From traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda, to modern wellness applications, garlic remains a highly valued herb for therapeutic purposes. This article discusses several different features of garlic, from its health benefits and uses to precautions and potential side effects. Read on to learn why garlic is cherished for its rich flavour and for boosting overall wellness.

Green coffee is the raw, unroasted bean of the coffee plant (Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora). Because it is not roasted, it contains higher levels of chlorogenic acid, a naturally occurring plant compound that is partly lost during roasting. Green coffee is available as a brewed drink and in capsules or tablets, and is commonly used as a dietary supplement for weight management, alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Evidence for its effectiveness in humans remains limited.

Guava (Amrud) is a tropical fruit of the Myrtaceae family, rich in vitamin C, dietary fibre, potassium and antioxidants. It is eaten fresh, consumed as juice, or prepared as leaf tea. In traditional and everyday use, it is valued for supporting digestion, immunity and skin health, and is widely enjoyed as a nutritious fruit across India.

Ghee is valued in many cultures for its potential health benefits, both culinary and medicinal. In Ayurveda, it is known as Ghrita, a substance that possesses the unique quality of Samskarasya Anuvartana, the ability to carry the medicinal properties of herbs without losing its own qualities. Traditionally, it is believed to support digestive health, nourish the body with fat-soluble vitamins, and contribute to overall wellness. While highly beneficial, its use must be tailored to an individual’s Prakriti (constitution) and current health status. The following blog will discuss the source of ghee, its nutritional value, and its potential health benefits.