Did you know certain Ayurvedic herbs can significantly improve your bone health? These herbs can aid in bone regeneration, enhance bone-building capacity, and strengthen bones overall. They can also boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and ease pain. While wear and tear are inevitable, Ayurveda offers ways to protect your joints and delay their ageing.
Top Ayurvedic Herbs for Bone Health
Shallaki (Boswellia Serrata): This tree's key components include volatile oil, resin, and gum. The active ingredients, Boswellic acids, help preserve joint cartilage structure and maintain healthy immune function at the cellular level. They also combat pain and inflammation by inhibiting leukotriene synthesis. Shallaki's Ushna Virya (heating potency) is beneficial for Vata imbalances, which can contribute to bone loss (Asthikshaya) according to Ayurveda. Additionally, its Tikta rasa (bitter taste) improves Dhatvagni (digestive fire), leading to proper nourishment of bodily tissues (Dhatus).
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3361921/
Guggulu: This oleogum resin, derived from the Commiphora mukul tree, has scraping and detoxifying properties. It helps clear toxins from joints that can cause discomfort. Guggulu simultaneously lubricates and rejuvenates joint tissues, promoting comfortable movement. Studies have shown improvements in knee pain, swelling, and flexion in patients with osteoarthritis who used Guggulu. In Ayurveda, it balances all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) but is particularly known for alleviating Vata aggravations.
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4637499/
Asthishrinkala (Cissus Quadrangularis): This herb is rich in carotenoids, triterpenoids, and ascorbic acid, compounds proved to aid bone healing after fractures. It promotes new bone formation and early mineralization. In Ayurveda, it's called Asthiyuka, meaning "that which promotes bone development." It balances Vata and Kapha doshas with its Katuvipaka (pungent taste after digestion) and Ushna Veerya (heating potency).
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3456847/
Shankha Bhasma: Prepared from a conch shell, Shankha Bhasma is a natural source of Calcium and Vitamin C, essential for bone development and maintenance. In Ayurveda, it's said to have Katu Kshareeya rasa (pungent and alkaline taste) and Sheeta Veerya (cooling potency). It also enhances absorption with its Deepana (appetizing), Pachana (digestive), and Grahi (absorbent) properties.
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266202/
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): This evergreen shrub, also known as "Indian Winter Cherry" or "Indian Ginseng," improves bone microarchitecture and promotes bone calcification. Studies suggest it increases the number of bone-producing cells (osteoblasts). Ashwagandha also exhibits anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, potentially reducing arthritic pain. In Ayurveda, it balances all three doshas with its Katu, Tikta, and Kashaya rasa (pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes) along with Ushna Veerya (heating potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent taste after digestion).
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/
Shilajit: This blackish-brown exudate, found in the Himalayan mountains, promotes fracture healing, reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, and preserves bone mineral density. Shilajit strengthens bones by boosting the transfer of minerals like Calcium, Magnesium, and Phosphate into bones and muscles. In Ayurveda, it has qualities that promote tissue growth with its Katu rasa (pungent taste), Ushna Veerya (heating potency), and Katuvipaka (pungent taste after digestion), alleviating Vata dosha.
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/
How can we procure the best quality herbs and how to consume them?
Sourcing good quality Ayurvedic herbs is always a challenge. Mixing them in the right proportion for an untrained person is even more challenging.
Fortunately, we have a natural preparation called "auBalya". This single composition is formulated by expert Ayurvedic doctors using the best of Ayurvedic herbs. auBalya helps support joint strength and mobility, potentially reducing joint pain and stiffness. It may also be beneficial in managing arthritis.
Disclaimer: Always consult a certified Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any herbs. They will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs.
