Some Ayurvedic herbs and spices have found their way into the United States.

Ayurvedic Herbs

Prior to the beginning of modern medicine as we know it many civilizations developed natural organic medicines from herbs. These cures generally came from plants and herbs which today can often be found in the kitchen.

Ayurvedic medicine is the practice of treating people holistically that has a history of treating disease and preventing ill health through herbs and even some of your every day spices found in the kitchen.

Some Ayurvedic herbs and spices have found their way into the United States. Ginger, Gotu Kola, Gymnema, Cinnamon, Boswellia or Frankincense and East Indian Globe Thistle are just a few of the Indian herbs that can be found in your local herbalist store and grocery store.

• Ginger: Used as a digestive aid, this spice has been recommended to cure gas, colic and even decrease heart burn. It is also known as a tonic to increase vigor and as an anti-depressant. In India this herb is also known as Sunthi or Adrak

• Gotu Kola: Listed as a common herb in India this herb should not be confused with Kola Nut which is a different plant. In Ayurvedic herbalism this plant has many uses including wound healing, skin disorders, sedative effects and even seems promising as a blood pressure lowering herb.

• Gymnema: Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar has received a lot of press because it appears to block sugars. The first noticeable effect when a small amount is placed on the tongue is that the person stops being able to taste sweets. The theory is that it has a similar blocking effect internally. The actual effect may be that because you don't "taste" the sugar it doesn't trigger that "sweet tooth effect". When used with diabetics a decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels was noted with this Indian herb.

• Cinnamon: In addition to being a key ingredient in mom's cinnamon rolls this spice has been used as a stimulant for hundreds of years by the Ayurvedic Herbalist. It is used commonly to alleviate tooth ache, rheumatism and as an astringent. The essential oil seems to have marked anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties also.

• Boswellia: Also known as Frankincense this gummy residue is used externally for its anti-inflammatory properties and as an expectorant and immune system booster when taken internally. This tree is native to India and the Middle East.

• East India Globe Thistle: Considered a tonic or energizer this herb also seems to have anti-diabetic qualities and may be found in compounds that promote anti-oxidant effects or that reduce blood sugar.

Taking herbs in place of medications is not without some risk. Many herbs contain potent substances which can create side effects as well as interactions with medications.

A common example is ginseng. Ginseng interacts with coumadin (a common blood thinner) and causes your blood to become even thinner.

If you are considering trying an herb or supplement you should check out the effects and side effects first and as always if you are taking medications you should consult with your doctor before using or trying any herb or supplement.