indian ayurveda... cool stuff

a staple in ayurveda is a concoction called chyawanprash. it's a mixture of herbs and such, with its axis being amla. you see it on the interent for $15 and up for usually a 500 gram container. i have the dabur brand, which seems to be the most popular. i stopped by a local indian store and picked up this product for $2.99 earlier today. i have no idea why it was so cheap.

Note: These benefits are as mentioned in the Ayurvedic texts and manufacturers' ads. Many of these benefits may have not been proven scientifically.

Chyawanprash is a rejuvenative and protects the body against three kinds of doshas. Regular intake of Chyawanprash strengthens digestion, absorption and assimilation of food. It eases constipation. Chyawanprash's basic ingredient amla is the richest natural source of Vitamin C . Ascorbic acid , commonly known as vitamin C is known to benefit the immune system and helps fight againt common cold and respiratory infections. Chyawanprash is also beneficial to the heart and the brain cells. It is considered a memory booster. It also works as an antioxidant, thus slowing down the aging process. It is believed that Chyawanprash purifies blood, eliminates toxins and is beneficial to liver. It is also said to fight bacterial skin infections and improve complexion. It promotes absorption of calcium, leading to stronger bones and teeth. It also improves muscle tone by enhancing protein synthesis. It is especially beneficial for cough and asthma patients. It enhances fertility and keeps menstruation regular. According to this study, Chyawanprash helps to prevent steroid induced cataract in the developing chick embryo

GOOD LINK...

http://www.kitchendoctor.com/Ayurveda/Chyawanprash.html

The holistic traditional formula of chyawanprash improves skin complexion, glow and fights dermal bacterial infection. It promotes hair growth and helps absorption of calcium resulting in strong bones and teeth. It is especially good for alleviating cough and asthma. The anti-oxidant properties of the tonic act against the ageing process and maintain youthfulness. Chyawanprash enhances fertility, keeps menstruation regular and helps to overcome difficulties in conception. It also improves muscle tone by enhancing protein synthesis effectively.

http://hinduism.about.com/cs/ayurveda/a/aa090103a.htm

then there's this hesh brand amla powder that i picked up at that store too for $1.99, which is retailing on the internet for $6.99.

Hesh Amla Powder is a natural astringent and skin toner that works on both hair and skin. In Botanical term it is known as Emblic Myrobalan. The paste of this powder helps promote luxuriant hair. Even as it controls hair loss. It stimulates hair roots and promote hair growth. This apart, it prevents scalp infection and controls premature graying of hair.

http://www.mehndiskinart.com/amla_powder.htm

i made the paste and applied it.... kinda soothing to tell you the truth.

here's a link to find u.s. retailers:

http://thokalath.com/grocery/index.php