Digestive health plays a pivotal role in one’s overall well-being! Good digestion leads to proper energy flow and mental clarity. It helps in breaking down the food into nutrients that the human body ultimately uses for cell repair and energy growth. The digestive system breaks down the food and liquid particles into fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Ayurveda and digestive health are deeply interconnected and both go hand in hand together. In Ayurveda, digestive health is considered as the foundation of overall well-being of the body. Following are some of the most important ayurvedic medicines for digestive system-
1. Trikatu
Owing to less side effects, more and more people are getting drawn towards ayurvedic remedies for treating several kinds of health anomalies. Famously known as ‘Power Trinity’, Trikatu is an ayurvedic medicine that consists of black pepper, spices and long pepper. All these are digestive stimulants which increase absorption of all kinds of essential nutrients. It not only treats different kinds of intestinal disorders, but also treats ailments such as peptic ulcer, heartburn and acid reflux disease. Regular consumption of Trikatu helps in the regeneration of liver cells.
2. Jeerakarishtam
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, Jeerakarishtam is the medicine that offers a mix of key ingredients which are known for their efficacy. Cumin or Jeera helps in reducing bloating and gas formation. This medicine stands as a beacon of holistic health and is known for its astounding results. Jeerakarishtam reduces the frequency of loose stools and improves the overall digestive health.
3. Panchsakar churna
Made by mixing five ingredients in the same proportions, Panchsakar churna is used to treat constipation and other ailments. Rock salt, Fennel seeds, Myrobalan, Ginger and Senna leaves are the five elements in Panchsakar churna. The culmination of all these ingredients helps fight constipation and softens stool. This ayurvedic medicine has laxative properties that also relieves flatulence. Panchsakar churna increases digestive secretions which in turn help in digestion. These secretions break down the food into small morsels and also absorbs nutrients. The medicine lubricates food for smoother swallowing resulting into a lesser strain on the stomach. It is rich in pancreatic enzymes which break down carbohydrates and fats in small intestine and the small intestine contains juices that complete digestion.
4. Hingwashtak Churna
With its balanced blend of Deepan and Pachan qualities, Hingwashtak Churna effectively supports healthy digestion and appetite. These properties help digest the food and this in turn provides a great relief from indigestion. If anyone is dealing with loss of appetite, it is recommended to Hingwashtak Churna as it is the most sought out ayurvedic medicine for digestive system. The vata balancing property of this churna helps manage abdominal pain. When consumed in proper amounts, this ayurvedic medicine does not have any kind of side effect. Indigestion can be characterized by a sensation of discomfort in the upper region of the abdomen. Hingwashtak Churna helps get rid of the toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion.
5. Kutajghan Vati
Kutajghan Vati is classic ayurvedic formulation which consists of a stem bark of a tree called Kutaja and the dried liquid of the stem called as Ghan. It is recommended to take this ayurvedic medicine at the recommended dose with water after having lunch/dinner. People deal with grappling health issues such as dysentery which leads to bleeding in the stool. Kutajghan vati reduces the inflammation of the intestine and improves the digestive system by reducing blood clots in stools. Kutajghan vati also reduces piles which are caused by unhealthy lifestyle.
6. Pentacid
It is very important to balance out the acid secretion produced in your stomach. Pentacid is the medicine which reduces the levels of acid that get produced in your stomach. Some of the acid-related diseases are acid reflux, heartburn and ulcers. It not only provides a relief from such diseases but also promotes healing. Many people have the habit of taking painkillers and prolonged use of these painkillers result in indigestion and acidity. Hence, many doctors and healthcare professionals have suggested to consume 40mg of Pentacid tablet a day one hour before the meal. However, if one has allergic reaction to this tablet then it is recommended to reduce its dose. It is one of the best ayurvedic medicines for digestive system.
7. Nityam tablet
If you are looking forward to detoxifying your stomach and gut, you can rely on Nityam tablet which helps relieve constipation and eliminates acidity from stomach. This nutrient rich ayurvedic laxative consists of herbs such as senna, saunf, Triphala and castor oil. Nityam tablet helps in cleaning the digestive system by eliminating waste from the body.
8. Pancharishta tonic
Known for complete digestive and stomach care, Pancharishta tonic enhances immunity and boosts one’s appetite thereby promoting a healthy digestive system. It is equipped with a potent combination of 35 Ayurvedic herbs few of which are Kumari, Shatavari, Trikatu, Trijat, Haridra, Sati and Lavanga. People who have a tendency of dealing with flatulent stomach are often asked by healthcare professionals to consume this nutrient-rich tonic. This in turn paves a way to a better digestive system. This tonic helps many people get a relief from gastrointestinal issues. The generic dosage of Pancharishta tonic is 30 ml twice a day diluted with equal amount of water. This is the dosage recommended by the physician. By targeting seven digestive centres from the intestines to the salivary glands, Pancharishta tonic helps maintain healthy digestion.
9. Chawanprash
Chawanprash is known to support digestive health, thanks to its blend of magical herbs like Tejpatra, Daalchini and Elaichi. These herbs help in digestion and promote a healthy gut. It increases the secretion of digestive enzymes thereby improving one’s gut health. One can also see a reduction in bloating and flatulence after one starts consuming this ayurvedic medicine. Its major motive is to correct gastrointestinal functions in the stomach. Despite the fact that eating Chawanprash is healthy, one should make sure that it is taken in prescribed quantities as its excessive intake can result in loose stools and indigestion.
Read gov reseach page - Your Digestive System & How it Works - NIDDK