8 Health-Promoting Ashta Choornam Ingredients, Benefits And Usage Guidelines!

Traditional medicines, particularly plant-based remedies, have witnessed a surge in demand. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 80% of people in developing nations like India rely on them for their healthcare needs. The rising awareness of natural products has spurred this trend, given their affordability, minimal side effects, and non-narcotic nature. Among these traditional remedies, choornas, powdered mixtures of medicinal plants, have garnered significant attention, with Ashta Choornam benefits emerging as a prominent example. 

Ashta Choornam, translating to "eight powders" in Sanskrit, is a classical Ayurvedic formulation known for its carminative, digestive, and detoxifying properties. Comprised of eight carefully selected herbs, this polyherbal blend stands out for its therapeutic effects and widespread usage guidelines. In addition to its traditional usage, Ashta Choornam powder has gained recognition in modern alternative medicine practices due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects. 

Its versatile nature allows it to be used for different healthcare routines, ranging from digestive support to detoxification protocols. Moreover, the accessibility of Ashta Choornam in powder and syrup forms makes it convenient to use as a natural remedy for your health concerns. Including Ashta Choornam for weight loss gives the best results when included in the diet. 

As awareness regarding the benefits of plant-based medicines continues to grow, this blog explores Ashta Choornam as a valuable option for enhancing holistic wellness through ayurvedic approaches. 

Table Of Contents 

1. 8 Ayurvedic Astha Choornam Ingredients  

2. 9 Astha Choornam Powder Benefits 

3. How To Use Ashta Choornam Ayurvedic Medicine? 

4. How To Take Ashta Choornam For Kids?  

5. Dietitian’s Recommendation 

6. The Final Say 

7. FAQs 

8. References 

8 Ayurvedic Astha Choornam Ingredients 

Astha Choornam is the best traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation, renowned for its digestive benefits and therapeutic properties. Each ingredient plays a specific role in enhancing digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting well-being. 

So, let's understand the key ingredients of Astha Choornam, which offers incredible health benefits. 

1. Shunti (Ginger) 

Astha Choornam incorporates ginger, a versatile herb widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. It helps with digestion, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidants. Ginger stimulates digestive fire, eases nausea, and aids in detoxification. Additionally, it helps alleviate motion sickness and menstrual discomfort. 

2. Shuddha Hingu (Asafoetida) 

Astha Choornam contains asafoetida and has carminative, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It treats stomach pain, bloating, asthma, high blood pressure, menstrual problems, and headaches. Moreover, it is a natural remedy for respiratory issues such as cough and cold. 

3. Maricha (Black Pepper) 

Black pepper, known as Maricha, is valued for its digestive, carminative, and thermogenic properties. It aids digestion, relieves flatulence, and boosts metabolism. Additionally, it enhances cognitive function and improves nutrient absorption. 

4. Pippali (Long Pepper) 

Astha Choornam incorporates pippali, or long pepper, renowned for its digestive, expectorant, and rejuvenating qualities. It supports respiratory health, improves digestion, and enhances nutrient absorption. Furthermore, pippali is considered a potent aphrodisiac and promotes sexual health. 

5. Ajamoda (Celery Seeds) 

Celery seeds, or Ajamoda, are included in Astha Choornam for their potent antispasmodic, diuretic, anthelmintic, laxative, and stimulant properties. They treat pain, inflammation, indigestion, urinary disorders, insomnia, rheumatism, kidney problems, bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Additionally, celery seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health. 

6. Sweta Jeeraka (Cumin Seeds) 

Astha Choornam contains cumin seeds, known as Jeeraka. These seeds are valued for their digestive, carminative, and antimicrobial properties. They relieve digestive discomfort, aid detoxification, and enhance nutrient absorption. Moreover, cumin seeds are believed to have anti-cancer properties and help manage diabetes. 

7. Krishna Jeeraka (Black Cumin Seeds) 

Black cumin seeds reduce pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. They also lower blood pressure, treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and promote dental hygiene. Additionally, black cumin seeds have been used traditionally to support immune function and have anti-allergic properties. 

8. Saindhava Lavana (Rock Salt) 

Astha Choornam incorporates Himalayan rock salt or Saindhava Lavana. Rich in minerals, it is revered in Ayurveda for its digestive stimulant properties. Rock salt improves digestion, balances electrolytes, and supports overall gastrointestinal health. Furthermore, it is believed to have detoxifying properties and help regulate blood sugar levels. 

Also Read: Discover 6 Benefits Of Sarsaparilla Root With Side Effects  

9 Astha Choornam Powder Benefits 

Let’s explore the eight significant benefits of Astha Choornam for your body to include it for the right purpose: 

1. Relieves Constipation 

Ayurveda recommends Astha Choornam to help with constipation. It encourages more bile production in your liver, which aids in the movement of the intestines, making it convenient for faeces to pass through. Additionally, it reduces mucus and excess fat in stools, preventing them from sticking to intestinal walls and promoting smooth bowel movements. 

2. Enhances Appetite 

For those struggling with appetite loss or eating disorders, regular intake of Ashta Choornam can help. It acts as a natural appetiser, aids digestion, and improves appetite, making it easier for individuals to eat properly, especially during illness recovery. 

3. Promotes Digestion 

This herbal blend is praised for its ability to aid digestion. It helps food break down in your stomach and intestine, increases the secretion of digestive juices, and improves nutrient absorption. By reducing abdominal gas, it also relieves bloating and cramps. It benefits digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhoea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. 

4. Treats IBS 

Ashta Choornam is effective in managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause both diarrhoea and constipation. It contains powerful herbs like trikatu, which help alleviate symptoms by addressing difficult-to-digest foods, unhealthy dietary choices, and stress. 

5. Remedies Arthritis Pain 

With its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, Ashta Choornam helps alleviate joint and muscle pain, reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. It's also beneficial for other issues, such as bursitis and general weakness caused by fever. 

6. Prevents Anorexia 

Ashta Choornam aids in preventing anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterised by self-starvation. Promoting digestion, improving appetite, and facilitating nutrient absorption ensures individuals maintain a healthy eating pattern. 

7. Cures Diarrhoea 

This herbal powder is effective against diarrhoea and intestinal infections due to its antibacterial and anti-diarrheal properties. It's beneficial for acute diarrhoea, characterised by slimy stools with a foul odour, as it helps remove toxins and reduces stool frequency. 

8. Manages Liver Anomalies 

Ashta Choornam is beneficial for various liver problems, such as hepatitis and jaundice, due to its hepatoprotective and bile-stimulating properties. Promoting bile secretion and eliminating excess bile reduces the risk of liver and spleen disorders. 

Also Read: Jaundice Diet: A Comprehensive Guide To Recover Quickly  

9. Aids In Weight Loss 

Renowned for its digestive and detoxifying properties in Ayurveda, Ashta Choornam for weight loss helps improve your digestion, enhance metabolism, and promote the elimination of toxins from the body, which are essential in managing weight. By supporting healthy digestion and metabolism, Ashta Choornam assists in optimising the body's natural fat-burning processes. 

How To Take Ashta Choornam For Kids?  

Note the considerations before including Ashta Choornam in kid’s healthcare regimen for reference: 

Dietitian’s Recommendation 

As a dietitian, I recommend incorporating Ashta Choornam, an Ayurvedic blend of eight herbs, into your diet for digestive support. Take a small amount (1-3 grams) after meals mixed with warm water to stimulate digestion and alleviate bloating. However, consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalised advice, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions. Remember, dietary supplements like Ashta Choornam should complement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, not replace them.  

Dt. Akshata Gandevikar  

The Final Say 

This is how understanding the ayurvedic Ashta Choornam powder ingredients, benefits, and usage guidelines offers valuable insights into its holistic approach to health. Its blend of herbs helps promote digestive health, detoxification, and overall vitality. Whether utilised for digestive support, detoxification, or weight management, Ashta Choornam remains a versatile and revered remedy in traditional and modern alternative medicine practices. 

Thus, by adhering to recommended usage guidelines and harnessing the therapeutic benefits of its ingredients, you can experience the transformative effects of Ashta Choornam on your journey towards enhanced health and vitality. 

FAQs 

1. What is Ashta Choornam? 

Ashta Choornam is a classical Ayurvedic herbal formulation made from eight carefully selected herbs. It is renowned for its digestive, carminative, and detoxifying properties and is commonly used to support gastrointestinal health and overall well-being. 

2. Is it better to take Ashta Choornam before or after food? 

The timing of taking Ashta Choornam may vary depending on individual preferences and health conditions. Generally, it is recommended to take it after meals to support digestion. However, a healthcare provider provides specific instructions based on individual needs. 

3. What is Ashta Choornam syrup? 

Ashta Choornam syrup is a liquid form of the herbal formulation, usually prepared by mixing the powdered form with a suitable vehicle such as water or honey. It offers a convenient option for administration, especially for those who may have difficulty swallowing the powdered form. 

4. Can I take Ashta Choornam with honey? 

Yes, Ashta Choornam can be mixed with honey for consumption. Honey not only helps mask the taste of the powder but also offers additional health benefits such as antimicrobial properties and soothing effects on the throat. 

5. For how long can Astha Choornam be used? 

Astha Choornam's use duration varies depending on individual requirements and health conditions. It is advisable to get a consultation from an Ayurvedic doctor for personalised guidance on the duration of use and any necessary adjustments to the dosage regimen. 

6. Is Astha Choornam suitable for everyone?