Women’s bodies are beautifully complex, constantly navigating hormonal shifts, reproductive health, mood changes, digestion, and more. Their bodies have two extra channels, as compared to the male bodies, which are lactation and menstruation channels. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, offers a powerful plant-based toolkit to support these needs naturally. Here are 10 healing herbs every woman should know, blending timeless Ayurvedic wisdom ✨ and modern science 🔬.
1. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) 🥀
Known as the “Queen of Herbs” in Ayurveda, Shatavari is revered for supporting female reproductive health.
- Benefits: Balances hormones, improves fertility, supports lactation, eases PMS and menopause
- Ayurvedic View: Nourishes the rasa dhatu (reproductive tissue)
2. Ashoka (Saraca asoca) 🌳
Traditionally used to treat menstrual disorders.
- Benefits: Regulates menstrual cycle, relieves cramps, supports uterine health
- Ayurvedic View: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha, strengthens endometrial lining
3. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 🥜
An adaptogenic herb to manage stress, sleep, and adrenal fatigue.
- Benefits: Reduces cortisol, enhances energy, stabilizes mood
- Ayurvedic View: Strengthens Ojas (vitality), balances Vata
4. Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) 🌿
A powerful herb for skin and reproductive health.
- Benefits: Helps in leucorrhea, heavy bleeding, and acne
- Ayurvedic View: Balances Kapha, tones uterus and skin
5. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) 🥒
The “Amrita” or divine nectar of Ayurveda.
- Benefits: Boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, improves digestion
- Ayurvedic View: Tridosha balancing, rejuvenates body systems
6. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) 🧁
A golden healer that every kitchen has.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hormone-balancing, great for PCOS
- Ayurvedic View: Balances Kapha and Pitta, purifies blood
7. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) 🌿
Supports brain, mood, and focus, especially during hormonal shifts.
- Benefits: Enhances memory, reduces anxiety, promotes restful sleep
- Ayurvedic View: Boosts Medhya (intellect), calms Vata and Pitta
8. Amla (Emblica officinalis) 🍎
- Benefits: Enhances iron absorption, improves skin and hair, regulates blood sugar, prevents many chronic diseases
- Ayurvedic View: Tridoshic, rasayana (rejuvenator)
9. Triphala (Blend of 3 fruits) 🥝
A digestive cleanser and gentle detoxifier.
- Benefits: Supports gut health, regular bowel movements, detoxification
- Ayurvedic View: Restores balance to all three doshas
10. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) 🌿
Popular in kitchens and traditional remedies alike.
- Benefits: Boosts lactation, balances blood sugar, helps with PCOS
- Ayurvedic View: Balances Vata and Kapha, stimulates Agni (digestion)
🌸 Final Thoughts
Ayurveda reminds us that healing is not just about treating symptoms, but nurturing balance in the body and mind. These herbs are not “quick fixes” but gentle allies for long-term wellness.
✨ Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor or healthcare provider before beginning herbal supplements.
📚 References:
- Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012 Jul;34(3):255-62. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.106022.
- Dehzad MJ, Ghalandari H, Nouri M, Askarpour M. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cytokine. 2023 Apr;164:156144.
- Calabrese C, Gregory WL, Leo M, Kraemer D, Bone K, Oken B. Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Jul;14(6):707-13.
- Saini R, Sharma N, Oladeji OS, Sourirajan A, Dev K, Zengin G, El-Shazly M, Kumar V. Traditional uses, bioactive composition, pharmacology, and toxicology of Phyllanthus emblica fruits: A comprehensive review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2022 Jan 10;282:114570. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114570. Epub 2021 Sep 2. PMID: 34480995.
- Peterson CT, Denniston K, Chopra D. Therapeutic Uses of Triphala in Ayurvedic Medicine. J Altern Complement Med. 2017 Aug;23(8):607-614. doi: 10.1089/acm.2017.0083. Epub 2017 Jul 11. PMID: 28696777; PMCID: PMC5567597.
- Correia AGDS, Alencar MB, Dos Santos AN, da Paixão DCB, Sandes FLF, Andrade B, Castro Y, de Andrade JS. Effect of saffron and fenugreek on lowering blood glucose: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Phytother Res. 2023 May;37(5):2092-2101. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7817. Epub 2023 Mar 29. PMID: 36992660.
- Lad, V. (2002). The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies. Harmony.
- Dash, B. & Sharma, R.K. (1999). Charaka Samhita. Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office.
Akanksha Sharma
Dr. Akanksha Sharma, Head Writer and creator of AtoZ of Pregnancy, is dedicated to empowering women, parents, and families through 360-degree knowledge. She and her team provide evidence-based advice to guide families through pregnancy, parenting and beyond.
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