When it comes to Ayurveda, certain principles and theories are addressed for the optimal functioning and protection of the human body. Digestion is one of the main points addressed by Ayurveda to achieve a good balance. Here are a few lines that present in detail the principles and functioning of the human digestive system.
What should I know about digestion and Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is concerned with all parts of the body that contribute to the overall balance of the organism, including the digestive system, which must function optimally. According to the principle of digestion in Ayurveda, each human being has a unique digestive fire or Agni which is characterized by a specific functioning. In Ayurveda, there are four categories of Agni:
- Sama Agni or the model intestine: it characterizes people who have no digestive problems. The Sama Agni provides a strong immunity and a constant feeling of satisfaction.
- Visham Agni or moody gut: it is unstable and highly unpredictable. When you have Visham Agni, eating any food can be a source of discomfort. You may go from bloating to gas, from constipation to diarrhea, from gurgling to pain, etc.
- Tikshna Agni or hyperactive intestine: it is synonymous with a very active digestive system. Indeed, eating a delicious meal can send you to the toilet. This leaves painful memories when you find yourself in front of an appetizing dish.
- Manda Agni or lazy bowel: it indicates that your digestive system is slow. It manifests itself by fatigue after meals and a very rare passage of stools. Manda Agni makes your agni heavy and your metabolism sluggish. It stores fat in your body and prevents it from functioning.
What are the Ayurvedic plants involved in digestion?
People characterized by the categories of Agni Visham, Tikshna and Manda have an intestinal transit that requires rebalancing. Here are some essential ayurvedic plants for a good digestion:
Ginger
Widely used in Ayurvedic cooking for its various properties on the immune system, ginger promotes the secretion of enzymes and increases agni. It also warms and accelerates the functioning of the digestive system.
The guduchi
It is considered a protector of the body. Although it is bitter and astringent, it has post-digestive qualities that soften and nourish Vata and Pitta.
Cilantro
It has cooling and dehydrating properties. It contains vegetable proteins which are highly sought after in Ayurvedic food. Its fresh juice is effective against the inflammation of the digestive system. Coriander promotes digestion by Pitta and activates the agni without aggravating its acidity. It also strengthens the energy of the liver and improves the appetite.
Turmeric
Nicknamed the golden goddess because of its yellow-orange color, turmeric facilitates transit and protects the gastrointestinal system. It also promotes healthy digestion and increases intestinal flora. Fresh, dried or in powder form, turmeric has an important place in the Ayurvedic diet.
The triphala
Triphala is composed of three fruits (or berries): Amalaki, Haritaki and Bibhitaki. It promotes the purification and detoxification of the intestine. It has a regulating effect on digestion, which improves the general metabolism. It also has a laxative effect without affecting the intestinal flora.
Ayurvedic diet is based on the digestive system which promotes proper assimilation of food. In Ayurveda, certain principles contribute to a good digestion. These are:
- to space out meals by 4 to 5 hours;
- to eat a hearty meal at lunch;
- to avoid eating too much in the evening;
- to avoid drinking during the meal so as not to drown the agni;
- and to favor foods that have a soothing, stimulating and hydrating effect while taking into account one's agni.
