Did you know that your gut influences your body’s overall health? Often referred to as our “other brain” or the “forgotten organ,” if your gut is not digesting, absorbing, and assimilating all the food you eat into your body properly, then the rest of your health can suffer, and that includes cognitive function and mood.

Your gut is your digestive tract and includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine (colon), and rectum. It’s also home to more than 100 trillion bacteria that play a very important role in your overall health. This bacteria produces hundreds of neurochemicals that the brain uses to support basic physiological and mental processes that help our memory, mood, and our ability to learn (not to mention the fact that this bacteria also produces about 95 percent of the body's supply of serotonin which influences mood and digestion!).

We've Got a Gut Feeling That These Ayurvedic Herbs Can Help

Many of the bacteria in your gut are perfectly harmless and are there to ensure your body’s running at peak efficiency, but some bacteria can cause challenges to wellness and even changes in mood. Understanding how to support the good bacteria instead of the bad is the first step in improving your overall health and mood. In Ayurveda, the science that Himalaya uses as a foundation for all of our products, certain herbs are used for their many positive properties which include promoting normal digestion and cognitive function.

Licorice

For normal digestion and occasional stomach upset, people of many different countries and cultures have turned to licorice root for thousands of years. Himalaya Organic Licorice supports normal GI and bowel function and provides organic digestive support. It is also a well-known herb to support adrenal fatigue which affects digestion and cortisol levels. Getting your adrenals back to a balanced state supports improved mood and clarity. Ashwagandha, Amla, Haritaki, and Licorice combine in Himalaya’s Hello® Energy formula to support metabolism, promote adrenal function, and support your body’s ability to respond to stress.

Triphala

Triphala has been used to support those who experience digestive discomfort. This herb has been used in traditional Ayurvedic wellness for centuries and is an herbal blend of three plants (its name literally translates to “three fruits”): Amla, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Triphala can support your body’s ability to absorb nutrients and it supports the nervous system as well. In Ayurvedic terms, Triphala, used in moderation, is said to have a beneficial effect on all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

Holy Basil

Holy Basil (also known as Tulsi) supports a normal adrenal response and promotes relaxation. It is an adaptogen and is used in herbal formulas for its many benefits. It promotes a regular metabolism, supports stress and mood, and can help with digestion. If you’re looking for a solution to enhance focus and improve concentration, try Hello® Calm Mind, which leverages Holy Basil, Gotu Kola, Bacopa, and other plant-based ingredients.

Ginger

Ginger is another popular herb used for centuries all over the world to support nutrient absorption, assimilation, and digestion. It’s been known for its metabolic properties and can support the good bacteria in your stomach.

Turmeric

Turmeric is used in almost every region of India as a core cooking ingredient—and not just because of how great it tastes—it has many beneficial health properties. It is often used in Ayurvedic wellness for digestive support. It promotes circulation, supports normal flexibility, movement, and supports a good immune response.

Amla

This superfruit has been in use for thousands of years in the practice of Ayurveda. When taken regularly, it can provide the body with antioxidant support, which supports digestion and promotes rejuvenation. Its ability to provide balance and promote restoration makes it one of the most popular herbs to support overall health, well-being, and mood. Try Himalaya Hello Joy® which leverages Amla, Ashwagandha, Bacopa, and Holy Basil to help improve mood and support your emotional wellness.

Ashwagandha

Likely the most popular herb in all of Ayurveda, Ashwagandha supports your body in multiple ways. It has been used for centuries for stress and energy. Himalaya’s Organic Ashwagandha is a clinically-studied blend of Ashwagandha root powder and root extract that provides stress relief by supporting your adrenals and balancing cortisol levels. It is one of the most well-known adaptogens and supports your body’s ability to respond to the effects of stress, whether that’s mental, emotional, or physical. It promotes energy, vitality, and gives you greater, sustained energy levels. Because of its adaptogenic properties, it can also support gut health and bring your body back to balance.

Chyavanprash

This herbal recipe is the original superfood. This diverse and extensive blend of herbs, spices, and botanicals has been used for thousands of years to support everything from immunity and digestion to promoting both energy and vitality. Chyavanprash is a famous Indian mixture of over 40 different ingredients, including Cinnamon, Cardamom, Honey, and Amla. It is one of the oldest recorded herbal recipes on earth for wellness and rejuvenation.

Check out Himalaya’s Hello® Peace herbal formula which combines Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Saffron, and Chyavanprash to promote your body’s calm and grounded response to everyday stressors.

Support Your Health From the Inside Out

Ayurvedic herbs to improve digestion and support mood are a great way to promote overall health and well-being while supporting your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Taking these supplements is a great start, but they are more effective when combined with other improvements to your diet and lifestyle. A balanced life starts from within, and because so many factors can influence both your gut health and mental health, it’s important to support your body as much as possible.

Find the right supplements to help support your mental and physical well-being by checking out Himalaya's line of wellness products or give us a call at 800-869-4640 with any questions you may have.