Four beneficial herbs recommended by an Ayurveda expert to support healthy weight gain

Gaining weight requires a focus on your diet and supplementation. Here are the herbs recommended by an expert for this purpose.

4 Useful Herbs For Healthy Weight Gain, As Per Ayurveda Expert
4 Useful Herbs For Healthy Weight Gain, As Per Ayurveda Expert

While obesity remains a global concern, there are individuals facing challenges in gaining weight healthily. Ayurveda categorizes personalities into three dominant types: vata, pitta, and kapha. Those dominated by vata and pitta often struggle to gain weight due to their high metabolic rates. Being underweight or thin can pose health concerns when one’s body weight falls below the ideal range for their height, age, and gender. Common causes of being underweight include inadequate calorie intake, stress, excessive exercise, irregular eating and sleeping patterns, metabolic issues, and an excess of vata dominance, making weight gain difficult. Vata, being inherently emaciating, dry, cooling, and light, can disrupt digestion and metabolism, leading to improper nutrient absorption. For insights on herbs aiding weight gain, the OnlyMyHealth editorial team consulted Dr. Manisha Mishra Goswami, Medical Adviser at Charak Pharma Pvt Ltd.

Herbs to promote weight gain

Individuals experiencing difficulty in gaining weight may also encounter issues such as anemia, malnutrition, fatigue, low energy levels, diminished bone and muscle strength, and weakened immunity. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle to enhance weight. Incorporating calorie-rich foods into meals can boost energy intake and facilitate weight gain.

Herbs for weight gain

It’s essential to minimize distractions while eating and ensure adequate sleep without excessive physical exertion. Additionally, certain herbs, when consumed regularly, can aid in improving weight and metabolism. Here are four Ayurvedic herbs known for their potential to promote weight gain:

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, commonly referred to as Indian ginseng, possesses sweet, bitter, and warm properties, making it a nourishing and rejuvenating herb. Renowned as an adaptogen, it is believed to alleviate stress and anxiety while promoting better sleep quality. Ashwagandha also supports overall health by nourishing and stabilizing tissues, thereby aiding in weight gain. Numerous studies indicate its potential to enhance immunity and metabolism. Incorporating ashwagandha powder into daily consumption, particularly with milk, can yield beneficial effects on health and well-being.

2. Licorice, also known as mulethi

This cooling and sweet-tasting herbal root, known as licorice or mulethi, has properties that soothe pitta and vata doshas, aiding in rejuvenation. Licorice is rich in proteins, amino acids, and natural sugars, as well as vital minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium. It boasts potent antioxidant properties, contributing to liver and respiratory health protection. As an immunomodulator, licorice enhances overall well-being. Functioning as a rasayana herb, it nourishes and facilitates weight gain. Incorporating licorice into your daily routine, such as consuming it as tea, can yield benefits.

3. Amla

Amla, widely recognized in Ayurveda for its anti-aging and health-enhancing attributes, stands out as one of the most renowned herbs. This sweet and sour fruit effectively calms both pitta and vata, fostering an anabolic effect in the body, which promotes weight gain. Renowned for its rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, and antioxidant properties, regular consumption of amla can significantly enhance overall health and weight management. Additionally, it aids in reducing acidity levels and maintaining digestive system health, thereby facilitating better nutrient absorption. Amla can be seamlessly incorporated into daily meals, whether in the form of chutneys or juices.

Amla

4. Gokshur

Gokhru, also known as gokshur, serves as a tonic for both the male and female reproductive systems. It is believed to enhance digestion, purify blood, maintain kidney and bladder health, increase sperm count, and regulate hormones to facilitate healthy weight gain. This herb nourishes and boosts strength and energy levels, making it a popular choice in Ayurveda for enhancing vitality, vigor, and muscle mass.

It’s essential to recognize that gaining weight is a gradual process that requires consistent efforts in improving diet and lifestyle. By adhering to a wholesome diet and lifestyle and incorporating key Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, amla, gokshur, mulethi, along with nutrient-rich foods like carrots and beetroot, one can support overall health and achieve weight goals. Blending these ingredients into a tasty smoothie at home can provide a convenient and enjoyable way to harness their benefits.