The use of Ayurvedic herbs have been apart of the Vedic philosophy in India since ancient times and continues to thrive today in modern culture.
Ayurveda's approach to human health takes into account the individual body types, called the three "doshas." (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha)
It is believed that when these doshas are in proper equilibrium humans can achieve maximum efficiency and inherent energy levels.
There are many herbs within the Ayurvedic system, but to keep things simple we will just focus on the top tonic herbs that are great for adding to
herbal tea recipes
and
nutritive herbal tea
blends.
Ayurvedic Herbs:
1) Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is a typically seen as a deep male reproductive tonic, though it can also be used by women. It is used as a "vitalizer" or energizer for the entire body.
It is an adaptogen, like theChinese herbs,and helps to relieve physical fatigue and nervous exhaustion when used over a period of time. It is known to produce rapid tissue regeneration and help promotelongevityand a youthful glow.
It is also and aphrodisiac that aids in various treatments of sexual stagnation's and conditions.
Ashwagandha reduces mental turmoil and provides a calm sleep. It is excellent for enhancing athletic performance and used to increase muscle mass in body building.
2) Shatavari
Shatavari is the more femine version of ashwagandha, great for female reproductive health and overall nervous system adaptogen tonic.
It helps to regulate the hormones, nourishing and cleansing the blood. Shatavari is known to enhance fertility. Although used by mostly women, it can also be used my men with similar effects.
In Sanskrit, Shatavari means "she who possesses a hundred husbands." It is an asparagus root, as in the
Chinese herbs,
but of a slightly different species called Asparagus racemosus.
The Chinese version is Asparagus lucidus. They both have similar effects, however, this Ayurvedic variety, is usually bought in powdered form.
3) Brahmi
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)also called Bacopa, is a nervine tonic and sedative that improves mental tranquility, reduces anxiety, enhances memory, learning and concentration on all levels.
It is a brain tonic in every sense of the word! Indian research has shown that Brahmi has
antioxidant
and anticancer properties. It tonifies cardiovascular health, purifies the blood and supports liver vitality.
4) Amalaki
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) is a tree fruit and powerful antioxidant that rejuvenates and detoxifies the body.
It works primarily as a
digestive
and bowel tonic, improving "digestive fire", aiding in elimination and ensuring proper
colon health.
It is known to stimulate the production and regeneration of red blood cells and is beneficial to many of the primary organs of the body.
Amalaki fruit is a great source of Vitamin C and perfect for overall immune system vigor.
5) Mucuna
Mucuna or Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriensis) is a velvety bean that contains many beneficial substances including L-dopa, which increases dopamine concentrations that move beyond the protective blood-brain barriers in the helpful treatment of nervous system disorders such as Parkinson's.
It also helps to replenish natural dopamine levels that are deficient in those recovering from addictive drug and tobacco use.
Mucuna is an aphrodisiac that promotes fertility in both men and women, increasing male sperm count and testosterone levels and regulating ovulation cycles in women.
Deeply nourishes all tissues and fluids of the entire body.
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is a typically seen as a deep male reproductive tonic, though it can also be used by women. It is used as a "vitalizer" or energizer for the entire body.
Shatavari is the more femine version of ashwagandha, great for female reproductive health and overall nervous system adaptogen tonic. 
Mucuna or Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriensis) is a velvety bean that contains many beneficial substances including L-dopa, which increases dopamine concentrations that move beyond the protective blood-brain barriers in the helpful treatment of nervous system disorders such as Parkinson's. 
