Chyawanprash is a common name in many Indian households thanks to its numerous health benefits. It has a long history of acting as a traditional immune booster and is commonly prepared in most households. This Ayurvedic formulation is used to improve vigor and vitality and delay the natural ageing process. In fact, it has acquired a status of a health supplement in India. You can even spot many Indians starting their day with a spoonful of chyawanprash to kick start their day on a healthy note.
Packed with the wellness of more than 40 Ayurvedic ingredients, chyawanprash is a storehouse of not just nutrients but also good health. Here are some of the common health benefits of this traditional Ayurvedic magic and why you should make it a part of your daily routine.
Health Benefits Of Chyawanprash
Chyawanprash is an ancient Indian formulation that has been around for many years. Also known as chyavanaprasha, the world chyawan symbolizes “degenerative change” whereas prasha signifies a food/supplement suitable for consumption[1].
According to Ayurveda, chyawanprash falls under the category of Awaleha which means a paste or jam like product. Ideally, it comprises of four classes of herbal drugs namely Dashmula (ten roots), Chaturjata (four aromatic plants), Ashtavarga (threatened medicinal herbs) and general class. Some of the key plant ingredients of chyawanprash include amla, shatavari, guduchi, brahmi, ashwagandha, gokshura, bala, and pippali[1].
In simple terms, it is a polyherbal jam enriched with several herbal extracts and processed minerals. Here’s more on the benefits of chyawanprash on health.
1. Boosts immunity
One of the key ingredients in chyawanprash is amla, which is a rich source of Vitamin C. It acts as an antioxidant that plays a vital role in boosting immunity. Guduchi is also a common herb that acts as an immunomodulator and adaptogen. Studies[2] have shown that chyawanprash reduces the activation of complement pathways and also promotes the activity of macrophages, a type of immune cells.
2. Improves brain function
The presence of herbs such as amla, brahmi and ashwagandha in chyawanprash makes it a healthy supplement for brain health. Research[1] has long back revealed how this Ayurvedic formulation nourishes the brain cells and helps maintain neuronal activities. This supplement can boost your memory and improve cognitive functions such as alertness, concentration and learning ability. This is why chyawanprash is also recommended for kids and students. Moreover, it helps in relieving stress.
3. Strengthens the respiratory system
Respiratory infections are quite common in everyone right from kids to elderly people. However, on an average, children suffer from more respiratory infections than adults per year. Studies[3] have shown that a regular intake of chyawanprash not only improves immunity but also strengthens the respiratory system. It protects the trachea and bronchial area from infections and thus, lowers your risk of respiratory infections. Some of the common respiratory infections include allergic cough, common cold, tuberculosis, seasonal flu, rhinitis, etc. Moreover, people suffering from chronic conditions such as asthma can improve their condition by adding this health supplement in diet.
4. Aids in digestion
The herbal ingredients of chyawanprash help in improving digestion and excretion along with improving the metabolism. It is reported to relieve symptoms such as hyperacidity, vomiting and nausea and also aid in the treatment of conditions such as gastritis and gastrointestinal problems. It works as a detoxifier and promotes healthy liver function thereby aiding in the process of digestion. Moreover, the presence of honey and ghee in chyawanprash helps in quick absorption and assimilation of the other ingredients into the cell walls providing effective results on overall health.
5. Maintains hormonal balance
Hormones play a key role in maintaining your overall health right from mental health to sexual health. It is also revealed that regular intake of chyawanprash boosts sexual function in both men and women[1]. It also improves virility and fertility and helps prevent problems with reproduction. In addition to balancing the hormonal flow, the active ingredients in chyawanprash helps in the functioning of the reproductive organs and endocrine system. It also improves semen quality and help in the regulation of menstruation.
Not just this, chyawanprash is also known to reduce blood cholesterol level, strengthen the bones, improve muscle tone, promote hair growth, prevent premature ageing, and act as a natural detoxifying agent[1].
So the next time you take a spoonful of chyawanprash do not think twice to enjoy its taste to the fullest and reap its amazing health benefits.
(The article is reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Medical Editor)
References:
1. Sharma R, Martins N, Kuca K, et al.Chyawanprash: A Traditional Indian Bioactive Health Supplement. Biomolecules. 2019 Apr 26;9(5).
2. Madaan A, Kanjilal S, Gupta A, et al. Evaluation of immunostimulatory activity of Chyawanprash using in vitro assays. Indian J Exp Biol. 2015 Mar;53(3):158-63.
3. Gupta A, Kumar S, Dole S, et al. Evaluation of Cyavanaprāśa on Health and Immunity related Parameters in Healthy Children: A Two Arm, Randomized, Open Labeled, Prospective, Multicenter, Clinical Study. Anc Sci Life. 2017 Jan-Mar;36(3):141-150.