Hindu/Ayurvedic Herbalism
In Hindu tradition, plants are manifestations of divine energy, sacred to specific deities. Ayurveda, the "Science of Life," represents one of the world's oldest and most comprehensive systems of herbal medicine, balancing the three doshas for health and spiritual growth.
Sacred Plants of Hinduism
Plants with deep religious significance, sacred to Hindu deities and used in worship.
Tulsi (Holy Basil - Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Sacred to: Vishnu Krishna Lakshmi
Uses: Spiritual purification, adaptogen, devotional practice
The "Queen of Herbs" - every Hindu home traditionally grows Tulsi. She is considered a goddess incarnate.
Ayurveda: Balances Vata/Kapha
Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
Sacred to: Brahma Lakshmi Vishnu
Uses: Divine birth, creation, purity, spiritual awakening
Brahma emerged from a lotus growing from Vishnu's navel. Lakshmi sits upon a lotus throne.
Banyan Tree (Ficus benghalensis)
Sacred to: Brahma Vishnu Shiva
Uses: Immortality, meditation, sacred gatherings, village center
The "Tree of Immortality" - represents the Trimurti and eternal life.
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Sacred to: Mariamman Sitala
Uses: Purification, skin healing, pesticide, spiritual cleansing
Called "Divine Tree" - every part is medicinal. Guards against evil spirits.
Ayurveda: Balances Pitta/Kapha
Ayurvedic Rasayana Herbs
Rejuvenating herbs (Rasayanas) that promote longevity, vitality, and spiritual development.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Meaning: "Smell of the Horse" - grants horse-like strength
Uses: Strength, vitality, stress relief, longevity
Ayurveda: Balances Vata/Kapha
Premier adaptogen and Rasayana. Supports nervous system, immunity, and reproductive health.
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
Named for: Brahma - the Creator
Uses: Memory, intellect, meditation, consciousness expansion
Ayurveda: Balances all Doshas
The "Herb of Grace" - enhances learning, memory, and spiritual practice.
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
Sacred to: Vishnu
Uses: Rejuvenation, immunity, digestion, longevity
Ayurveda: Balances all Doshas
Highest natural source of Vitamin C. Key ingredient in Triphala and Chyawanprash.
Indian Frankincense (Boswellia serrata)
Sanskrit: Shallaki / Salai Guggul
Uses: Puja offerings, arthritis, inflammation, meditation
Ayurveda: Balances Vata/Kapha
Sacred incense for worship. Powerful anti-inflammatory in Ayurvedic medicine.
Doshas and Herbal Balance
Ayurveda recognizes three fundamental energies (doshas) that govern health:
- Vata (Air/Space): Movement, creativity, flexibility. Imbalance: anxiety, dryness
- Pitta (Fire/Water): Transformation, digestion, intellect. Imbalance: inflammation, anger
- Kapha (Earth/Water): Structure, stability, lubrication. Imbalance: congestion, lethargy
Herbs are selected based on their ability to balance specific doshas for each individual.