Ayurvedic Herbology - Part II Ayurvedic Spices WITH SONIA MASOCCO Lugano, 4 th -6 th December 2015 Page 1 of 30
ELA = Cardamom Elettaria cardemomum ( Scitaminaceae) VPK = Energetics: Taste Pungent, Sweet Potency Cooling Post Digestive Sweet Habitat and Cultivation: Native to southern India and Sri Lanka, where it grows in forest areas at 2500 to 5000 ft. Widely cultivated in Asia, Indonesia and Guatemala. Propagated from seed in autumn or root division in the spring. Needs shade, rich and moist soil. Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Seed pod and essential oil Volatile oils, starch Appetite enhancer, mouth freshener, digestive, carminative, laxative, anti-emetic, stimulant, expectorant, diuretic Throughout history used for a myriad of digestive problems, especially indigestion, gas and cramps. It is also used in mixtures to counteract the taste of less palatable herbs. In India it is also used for asthma, bronchitis and general debility. Very effective treatment for bad breath and when taken with garlic, reduces garlic s strong smell. Increases sexual potency usually combined with milk. Mix with honey for coughs. Combine with coriander, goatweed and punarnava for painful urinary tract infections. Page 2 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: GRAS In excess, can cause diarrhea Pharmacy and Dosage: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Moon Infusion 4 crushed pods for 1 cup water after meals Essential oil for digestive pain 5% dilution applied to abdomen Tincture for poor appetite 30 drops Twice a day (BID) Crush the pods before using Digestive Tract, Mouth, Respiratory and Urinary Tract Mild Possible Herb Substitute Can I make a tincture Cao dou kou Ela or Elachi Fennel Yes. Use dry seed pods 1:5 with 50% grain alcohol Page 3 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive TWAK = Cinnamon Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Lauraceae) V"PK Sweet, Pungent, Astringent Heating Sweet Habitat and Cultivation: Native to Sri Lanka and India. Cultivated in the Philippines and West Indies. Propagated from cuttings. Evergreen tree. Part Used: Bark, essential oil and leaves (tamalapatra) Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Volatile oil, coumarins, mucilage, resin, sugar, starch, tannins, polyphenols Alterative, antiseptic, antiviral, anti-spasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, slight emmenagogue, warming, anti-inflammatory Cinnamon is a supportive herb for strengthening weak digestion during convalescence. It is a good diaphoretic and helps expectoration so it is used for colds and flu. It strengthens and warms the heart and is a complexion enhancer. Promotes white blood cell count and helps maintain healthy glucose and insulin levels in the bloodstream to ensure all cells get the energy they need to perform basic biological functions. The essential oil shows strong inhibitory effects against staphylococcus and salmonella and is therefore considered one of the best anti-parasites. Used often as part of an aromatic mixture along with cardamom and bay. Page 4 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy and lactation. Pharmacy and Dosage: Caps 375 mg max Three times a day (TID) Tincture 10 drops Three times a day (TID) Essential oil 2-5 drops internally Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Sun Lung, Heart, Digestive tract Strong Gui zhi Twak Possible Substitute: none Can I make my own tincture? Not recommended as the essential oil is available. Page 5 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: ARDRAKA/SUNTHI = Ginger Zingiber officinalis (Zingiberaceae) VPK="P in excess or when dry forms are used Pungent Heating Sweet (when fresh) Pungent (when dry) Native to Asia, grown throughout the tropics. Propagated by dividing the root. Rhizome is unearthed when the plant is ten months old. Perennial. root and essential oil volatile oils, oleoresin, carbohydrates Anti-emetic, appetite enhancer, analgesic, anti-asthmatic,antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, inhibits coughing, sex stimulant and aphrodisiac, tonic. Very useful for many digestive complaints such as indigestion, toxicity nausea, gas and colic. It relieves motion sickness. Due to its antiseptic quality, ginger is highly beneficial for intestinal infections, including food poisoning and bacillary dysentery. As ginger stimulates the circulation, it is an important remedy for Reynauld s syndrome and helps high blood pressure. It also reduces fevers by increasing sweating. For the respiratory tract, it reduces mucous and is soothing for coughs, colds and flu. In TCM, dry ginger is indicated for internal cold, weak pulse and pale complexion. In recent studies, it is found to inhibit prostate cancer Page 6 of 30
cell proliferation. Contraindications and Cautions: Do not use with ulcers or bleeding disorders or tendency toward bleeding gums. Enhanced outcome has been noted when used with NSAIDS (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). May increase calcium uptake so caution should be used with calcium channel blockers (hypertension medication). Pharmacy & Dosages: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Possible Substitute: Infusion 1 cup three times a day Essential oil for arthritic aches and pains 5% dilution Capsules for morning sickness 75 mg / 540mg Twice a day (BID) for other uses Tincture 30 drops Twice a day (BID) Sun Lymph/Plasma, Blood, Lungs, Kidneys Strong Bu gu zhi Ardraka/Sunthi Turmeric Page 7 of 30
JIRAKA = Black Cumin Nigella Sativa (Ranunculacea) Energetics: Taste Bitter, Pungent Potency Heating Post Digestive Pungent Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Native to western Asia, grown in Asia and the Mediterranean Seeds Fixed oils, saponins, volatile oil, EFAs, d-limonene, linoleic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, tyrosine, tannins, thymoquinone, nigellon, methanthin brain tonic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, depurative, carminative, anodyne, anti-inflammatory, appetite enhancer, anthelmintic, stimulant, galactagogue, emmenogogue, expectorant, anti-histamine. Externally it is used on the head to help relieve alopecia. Oil nose drops are used in case of jaundice or headaches Internally it increases strength and is capable of processing toxins and toxicity from all tissues. As a stimulant it is used to promote menstruation, increase Page 8 of 30
breast milk production and also to increase male stamina. For the digestive tract, it is used for dyspepsia, flatulence, stomach pain, dysentery due to worms and for worms in children. It also counters allergies, inflammatory response to allergens and eye sensitivity due to allergens. Strong scientific evidence indicates the active principles of fatty acids derived from the seeds show inhibitory activity in the development of a common type of cancer cell called Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC), Daltons Lymphoma Ascites(DLA) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in animal studies as well as in cultured human cells, promoting apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. Hence, black cumin is considered a potent anti-tumor agent and is being used for a multitude of other cancers as well. Contraindications and Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy. Toxic in high dose Pharmacy and Dosage: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Saturn Available in capsules 500 mg B.I.D. Bowels (foul smell scavenger and anthelmintic), Lungs, Stomach, Breast, Uterus Strong Not used Possible Substitute: none Can I make my own tincture? Jiraka, Jeerna, Krisna Jeerna, Upakunchika not recommended. Page 9 of 30
SHATAPUSHPA = Fennel Foeniculum vulgare (Umbrelliferae) VPK= "K in excess Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Sweet, Pungent Heating/Cooling Sweet Habitat and Cultivation: Native to the Mediterranean region, cultivated in temperate regions around the world. Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Whole plant, seeds and essential oil Volatile oils (8%), flavonoids, coumarines, sterols Antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, analgesic, mild expectorant, galactagogue, anthelmintic, vermifuge Primary use is to relieve bloating, but also to settle stomach pain, stimulate appetite, diuretic and anti-inflammatory. By it s purgative nature, it removes toxicity from the body. The seeds help in the treatment of kidney stones and are often combined with uva ursi for the treatment of cystitis. Infusion of the seeds is used as a gargle for sore throat and dry throat. Syrup or infusion should be given to soothe painful teething or colic in infants. Also used to increase breast milk production and to promote menstruation; as an eyewash for sore eyes and conjunctivitis, as an aid to weight loss and for longevity. The tea internally, the essential oil applied externally to the abdomen, can be used to dispel intestinal worms. Page 10 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: Do not take the essential oil internally, potentially toxic (procarcinogenic) CNS toxicity in nursing mothers (human case reports). The extract and essential oil exhibit estrogenic action. Pharmacy and Dosage :Infusion 100 ml daily as a digestive tonic Caps 450g daily for gastrointestinal health Planetary ruler: Mercury Tissue Affinity: Lymph, Blood, GI Tract, Water channels, Breast Milk Herb Strength: Medium - Strong Chinese Name: Xiao Hui Xiang Ayurvedic Name: Shatapushpa Possible Substitute: Fenugreek Can I make my own tincture? Yes, by using the seeds 1:5 with 60% grain alcohol. Page 11 of 30
LAVANGA = Clove Eugenia carophyllata (Myrtacea) "VPK Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Astringent, Sweet, Sour Cooling Sweet Originally from the Molucca Islands (Indonesia) and southern Philippines now grown in Tanzania, Madagascar, West Indies and Brazil. Dry flower buds (cloves), essential oil Volatile oils, resin, gum, tannins Astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, refrigerant, appetite enhancer, digestive, liver stimulant, hemostatic, analgesic, eliminates parasites, galactagogue Regarded as an Asian panacea for almost all ills. The antiseptic properties are used for viral conditions. Often given to treat malaria, cholera, tuberculosis and parasites. Stimulant to the mind and body. It is also considered a liver stimulant and aids in anorexia, loss of appetite, flatulence and relieves abdominal colics. In maternity it helps prepare for childbirth as it stimulates and strengthens the uterine muscle (usually prescribed a week before term) and after labor it is also used to purify breast milk. Page 12 of 30
Additionally it is used for acne, skin ulcers as well as mosquito and moth repellant. In the west, mainly used for mouthwash and toothache. Contraindications and Cautions: High vata and caution during pregnancy Pharmacy and Dosage: Decoction for colic 2 cloves per cup Three times a day (TID) Tincture for flatulence 20 drops Three times a day (TID) Essential Oil for toothache 1-2 drops directly on affected area Re-energize with oil or ghee when using as spice. Planetary ruler: Mars Tissue Affinity: Blood and GI tract Herb Strength: Strong Chinese Name: Ding Xiang Ayurvedic Name: Lavanga Possible Substitute: None Can I make my own tincture? Not recommended as essential oil is available. In recent studies, clove has been shown to have anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, antimutagenic and anti-inflammatory effect when studied in relation to melanoma, osteocarcinoma and gastric mast cells. By inference, adding cloves to tea or rice can be considered a low dose spice in food as medicine. Page 13 of 30
MARICHA = Pepper, Black, Green, Red and White Piper nigrum (Piperaceae) V"PK Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Pungent Heating Sweet Habitat and Cultivation: Native to southwestern India, now cultivated in tropical areas around the world. Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Fruit, essential oil Black peppercorns are picked unripe and dried Green peppercorns are picked unripe and pickled Red peppercorns are picked ripe and dried White peppercorns are picked ripe and soaked in water x 8 days before drying Volatile oil (very little in white pepper), alkaloids, proteins and minerals Digestive, antibacterial, antiseptic, detoxifying, diaphoretic, vulnerary Stimulant to the digestive tract and circulatory system. Burns toxicity and clears deposits of stagnation, congestion and heaviness. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used to open all bodily channels, tissues and eradicate kapha. Antidote to cold foods, raw foods and salads. Used to warm the body, improve circulation and to ease nausea, flatulence, bloating, constipation and lack of appetite. Reduces fever. Page 14 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: Increases the bio-availability of courcumin (turmeric). Avoid large doses during pregnancy and if the person is already hot by nature or having yin deficiency. Pharmacy and Dosages: 10 drops of tincture 3 times a day Milk decoction with ½ tsp of powder Medicated ghee for sinus congestion and headache With honey as a mucus cleanser. Planetary ruler: Sun Tissue Affinity: Blood, Gastro-intestinal tract, Respiratory tract Herb Strength: Strong Chinese Name: Hu jiao Ayurvedic Name: Maricha Possible Substitute: Long Pepper Can I make my own tincture? Yes, use 65% alcohol in a 1:5 ratio Box text: Black pepper, long pepper and ginger combined are the three ingredients that make the very popular Ayurvedic combination formula called trikatu (the three pun gents) Page 15 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: PIPPALI = Long Pepper Piper Longum (Piperaceae) VPK = ("P in excess) Pungent Heating Sweet Native to southwestern India, now cultivated in tropical areas around the world including Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore. Fruit Volatile oil, alkaloids, resin, starch, lignans, Immunomodulator, stimulant, anti-asthmatic, antiinflammatory, anti-amoebic, antibacterial, hepato-protective, tonic, vermifuge, emmenagogue, expectorant, digestive, carminative. In Ayurvedic medicine, it pacifies vata and kapha, promotes strength and is considered the best medicine for congestion in the lungs, asthma and chronic bronchitis. It should not be used for prolonged periods of time. Is a blood rejuvenator, regulates the function of the liver and spleen and helps reduce enlargements to those organs (hepatomegaly and splenomegaly respectively) Long pepper is also used in type II diabetes to reduce congestion, toxicity and fat accumulation in tissues. Also used in conditions such as gout, rheumatism and obesity. Page 16 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: Use during pregnancy and lactation should be avoided. Pharmacy and Dosages: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Sun Typically ¼-1/2 teaspoons are added to milk at night during non-acute phase In acute phase 1/2 tsp is taken 3 times a day with warm water Lungs, Stomach, Blood, Liver, Spleen, Fat, Strong Bi ba Pippali Possible Substitute: Black Pepper Can I make my own tincture? Yes, you can use a 1:5 ratio with 65% grain alcohol. Page 17 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive HARIDRA = Turmeric Curcuma Longa (Zingiberaceae) "V"PK Bitter, Astringent, Pungent Heating Pungent Habitat and Cultivation: Native to India and southern Asia. Cultivated throughout southern and eastern Asia. Propagated by cutting of rhizomes. Perennial. Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Rhizome, leaves, essential oil Volatile oils, curcuminoids, bitter principles, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, resin Alterative, anti-malarial, anti-epileptic, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, anti-ulcer, anti-cancer, anti-coagulant, aperitif, antioxidant, antiviral, carminative, cholesterol-lowering, diuretic, vermifuge, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, immunostimulant Traditionally used as a reducing herb for conditions such as diabetes, congestion, water retention, ascites and loss of appetite, turmeric is now used mainly for it s anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity as recent studies have shown that curcumin (one of its Key Constituents:) protects against lesions in the colon, breast and duodenum. Page 18 of 30
However, this herb can be used as an overall plasma, lymph and blood purifier, to digest toxicity and help the liver metabolize fat and alleviate respiratory congestion as well as leukorrhea. After labor, turmeric is recommended for milk purification as well as for uterus cleansing. Contraindications and Cautions: In case of gallstones, use only after consulting with physician (Com. E. monographes). Avoid if there are already bleeding tendencies, duodenal and gastric ulcers. Caution during pregnancy. Discontinue use should rashes or palpitations develop. Dosages: Decoction for gastritis ½ cup Three times a day (TID) Tincture 10 drops Three times a day (TID) Full Spectrum 720 mg Twice a day (BID) Standardized Extract 850 mg one a day Planetary ruler: Jupiter Tissue Affinity: All tissues Herb Strength: Strong Chinese Name: Jiang Huang Ayurvedic Name: Haridra Possible Substitute: None Can I make my own tincture? Although the essential oil is available, in this case I say Yes, but everything you work with will turn yellow For a fresh tincture use 1:2 with 100% grain alcohol, for a dry tincture use 1:5 with 50% alcohol. Turmeric has been investigated for its effect on initiation, promotion and progression of carcinogens. Curcumin and turmeric prevent activation of carcinogenesis and attachment of electrophiles on DNA, acts as antioxidant and anti promoter, retards the conversion of pre-neoplasia, in addition to repairing damage to DNA. Page 19 of 30
JATIPHALA/JATIPATRI = Nutmeg Myristica fragrans (Myristicaceae) V"PK Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Pungent,Bitter, Astringent Heating Pungent Habitat and Cultivation: Native to the Molucca Islands of Indonesia. Widely cultivated in tropical areas. Propagated by seed. The tree yields fruit after 8 years. Part Used: Aril surrounding the seed (mace), seed, essential oil. Key Constituents: volatile oil, fixed oil (nutmeg butter),protein, fats, starch, mucilage and alkaloid. Mace contains, volatile oils, resin, fats, sucrose and mucilage Main Actions: Carminative, analgesic, prevents vomiting, stimulant, aphrodisiac, cardiac depressant, intoxicant, fetid smell neutralizer, anthelmintic Main Uses: Promotes sleep and reduces high blood pressure. The essential oil is analgesic. It is used along with other medicines in anorexia, indigestion, liver disorders, diarrhea, colitis and helminthiasis. It reduces the foul smell and blackness of stools. Nutmeg is also given to subside excess thirst and emesis. As an expectorant, it is used for the respiratory system in chronic rhinitis and wet coughs. Page 20 of 30
Contraindications and Cautions: A central nervous system depressant, in excess it is hallucinogenic and toxic. The consumption of just 2 whole nutmegs has been known to cause death. Two teaspoons are associated with psychoactive activity, nausea, dizziness, disorientation, visual distortion, and mild euphoria. Pharmacy and Dosages: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Jupiter Essential oil used to treat vomiting Infusion for digestive, a pinch with peppermint leaves Ointment (butter) for rheumatic conditions Paste for eczema mix 2 teaspoons with a little water Paste is also used as an analgesic for headaches For insomnia add one pinch to one cup of hot milk. Mind, Heart, Gastro-Intestinal tract, Strong Possible Substitute: None Rou Dou Kou Jatiphala (nutmeg), Jatatri (mace) Can I make my own tincture? Not necessary as the essential oil is available. Page 21 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: RAJIKA = Mustard Brassica juncea (Cruciferacea) V"PK Bitter Heating Pungent All over India and worldwide Seeds and oil Volatile and stable oils, glucosilinates Antimicrobial,vermifuge, emetic, stimulant, expectorant, carminative It is used to eliminate food-borne bacteria and pathogens. Also, as an emetic in treating internal poisoning. In acute and chronic dysentery, when the seeds are swallowed with water, they break inside the intestines thereby clearing the mucous and relieving gripping pain. When the oil is used topically, it increases circulation, relieving muscular pain, especially to hands and feet. The paste of seeds mixed with water promote heat and sweating and is indicated in cases of bronchitis or enlarged spleen. Contraindications and Cautions:Do not use topically on sensitive skin. Pharmacy and Dosage: 1 tablespoon for 1/2 gallon of water to make tea For intestinal worms use 1 teaspoon with 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne after each meal for 15 days. Page 22 of 30
Planetary ruler: Moon Tissue Affinity: Blood, Gastro-intestinal tract, Lungs Herb Strength: Strong Chinese Name: Bai jie zi (Brassica alba) Ayurvedic Name: Rajika Possible Substitute: None Should I make my own tincture? No. The oil is available and a medicated oil can be made. Page 23 of 30
Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: METHIKA = Fenugreek Trigonella foenumgraecum (Leguminosae) V"PK Bitter, Pungent, Sweet Heating Pungent Native to North Africa and the countries bordering the Mediterranean Widely cultivated in India Seeds Volatile oils, alkaloids, saponines, flavonoids, mucilage (27%), protein (25%), coumarins, lecithin, vitamins A, B1, C and minerals. Stimulant, tonic, expectorant, rejuvenative, galactagogue antioxidant, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic These nourishing seeds are given during convalescence and to encourage weight gain, especially in anorexia. They are also helpful in lowering fever. They are of high value for treating gastritis Page 24 of 30
and gastric ulcers. In the Middle East the seeds are used to induce childbirth and to increase breast milk production as well. Thought to be an anti-diabetic and to lower cholesterol levels. Externally, used as a paste to treat abscesses, ulcers, burns and tea used as douche for excessive vaginal discharge. Freshen bad breath and restores sense of taste. In China, it is used in a pessary preparation to treat cervical cancer. Current studies are underway concerning inhibition of liver cancer, uterine contraction stimulation and anti-diabetic action. Contraindications and Cautions: should be avoided during pregnancy and high pitta conditions Monitor use with diabetics due to hyperglycemic effect. Enhances action of cholesterol lowering agents Pharmacy and Dosage : Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Herb Strength: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Sun Decoction 1 teaspoon daily in cup of milk 250 mg caps to 1 grams a day as tonic. The flavor can be improved by using cinnamon, cloves, honey or date sugar Lymph, Blood, Muscle, Fat, Nerve, Reproductive Female and Male, Digestive tract, Breast Milk Strong Hu lu ba Possible Substitute: Fennel Methika/Methini Can I make my own tincture? Yes. It will require 60% grain alcohol and the usual 1:5 Page 25 of 30
DHANYAKAM = Cilantro and Coriander Coriandrum sativum (Umbrelliferae) VPK= Energetics: Taste Potency Post Digestive Habitat and Cultivation: Part Used: Key Constituents: Main Actions: Main Uses: Bitter, Pungent, Sweet Cooling (cilantro leaf) Heating (coriander seed) Sweet Native to Southern Europe and western Asia, now cultivated worldwide. Leaves, seeds, essential oil Volatile oils (1.5%), flavonoids, coumarins, phthalides and phenolic acid. Alterative, carminative, diuretic, diaphoretic, antioxidant, febrifuge, refrigerant Used for well over 2000 years, documented in Ebers papyrus, by Hippocrates, Pliny and also used in China during the Han and Song Dynasty. Counters burning sensations, sore throat, indigestion, urinary tract infections, urticaria, rashes, heat disorders of the digestive or Page 26 of 30
urinary tract. Fresh juice is effective internally for allergies and hay fever and externally for skin rashes, itches and inflammations. Often mixed with cooling fennel and cumin seeds. It also is used to counteract toxicity of heavy metals. Contraindications and Cautions: GRAS (generally regarded as safe) Pharmacy and Dosage: Planetary ruler: Tissue Affinity: Chinese Name: Ayurvedic Name: Possible herb substitute Can I make a tincture? Infusion hot or cold daily as a digestive and cooling tonic Fresh juice Caps 425 mg 2/day as antioxidant and for lipid balance Mars Can I make my own tincture? Skin, Liver, Eyes, Blood not used in TCM Dhanyakam Fennel Yes, use seeds 1:5 with 65% grain alcohol Fresh root tincture is 1:2 with pure grain alcohol Dry root tincture requires 60% strength grain alcohol 1:5 A cordial would be better tasting and equally as potent Page 27 of 30
MASALAS, CHURNAS AND CHUTNEYS Masala is a mixture of spices used in India to add flavor. Normally dry roasted and added as a powder in the latter stages of cooking. Masala can also be a mixture of fresh garlic, ginger, onion, tomato and chili paste cooked down together before adding main dish ingredient. Garam Masala 1/4 c coriander seeds 1/2 c cumin seeds 1/8 c whole cloves 2-4 cinnamon sticks 1/4 c cardamom pods Curry Masala 1 Tbs cumin seeds 1 Tbs black mustard seeds 1/4 Tbs fenugreek seeds 4 whole dried chili peppers crushed 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns 12 fresh curry leaves 1 Tbs turmeric 1/8 c coriander powder Slow roast in cast iron skillet for 10 minutes and grind once cooled. Slow roast in cast iron skillet for 10 minutes and grind once cooled Churna is a powder and usually refers to raw spice blend, which has punch as well as a therapeutic property. Page 28 of 30
Turmeric Churna 1 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp ginger powder 1/4 tsp long pepper powder Coriander Churna 1 Tbs coriander seeds, ground 1 Tbs celery seeds ground 1/2 tsp white pepper ground Cinnamon Churna 1 Tbs cinnamon powder 1 tsp cardamom powder 1/2 tsp nutmeg powder Trikatu the tree pungents Churna 1 Tbs long pepper ground 1 Tbs black pepper ground 1 Tbs ginger ground Hingwasthak Churna 1 Tbs ginger powder 1 Tbs black pepper powder 1 Tbs long pepper powder 1 Tbs ajowan powder 1 Tbs rock salt 1 Tbs cumin seeds crushed 1 Tbs black caraway 1 Tbs asafetida Page 29 of 30
Chutney refers to a pasty sauce, which can be fresh or preserved and sweet or hot. Mint Cilantro Chutney 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro 1/2 bunch of fresh mint 1/2 tsp lemon juice 1/4 tsp sea salt 2 Tbs fresh plain yogurt added before serving Cilantro Parsley Chutney 1/2 c minced fresh cilantro 1/4 c minced fresh parsley 2 tsp sunflower oil 1/2 tsp black mustard seeds 1/4 tsp dried tamarind Orange Ginger Chutney 1/8 c orange pulp 2 Tbs minced ginger 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder 1/4 tsp cardamom powder 1 Tbs ghee 1 pinch turmeric 1 pinch black pepper 1 pinch sea salt Page 30 of 30
Ayurvedic Herbs & Spices assignment Name Your Prakruti (main constitution) Your Vikruti (current state of doshic imbalance) Toxicity (physical, mental, emotional) scale 1(least)-10(most) = Food Method of Preparation Spice selection for balancing food/dosha Milk Ice Cream Salad Potato Banana Apple Stream/lake Fish Ocean Hatchery Select the churna (spice mix) which would address your vikruti (current imbalance): Black pepper Fennel Dry ginger Fennel Cumin Cinnamon Cumin Coriander Black pepper Dry ginger Cardamom Mineral salt
Hing Turmeric Turmeric Mineral salt Succanat Select/circle your best choice for your chai (tea) spices: Ginger (fresh) Ginger (dry) Cardamom Clove Cinnamon Fennel Star Anise Bay Leaves (optional) Black Pepper (optional) Vanilla