Gut Health: Why It Matters and How Nature Can Help
Gut health is foundational—not just for digestion, but for holistic well-being
Our gut does far more than just digest the food we eat. It plays a vital role in immunity, nutrient absorption, mental well-being, and even inflammation regulation. As research continues to highlight the importance of digestive health, interest in natural, holistic support for the gut is on the rise.
Digestive discomfort, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and occasional constipation are more common than we might admit. These symptoms, while often brushed off, may indicate an imbalance in the gut microbiome or a sluggish digestive system. Factors such as poor diet, stress, lack of fiber, and sedentary lifestyles can all contribute.
Nature's purity provides essential nourishment, helping to restore digestive balance naturally. Organic, whole-herb ingredients uphold the integrity of plant-based healing, supporting gut health and overall well-being.
Nature-Backed Tools for Digestive Wellness
Several Ayurvedic herbs and formulations have been used for centuries to support digestion. Ruchi Sharma, certified nutritionist and health coach in collaboration with Organic India helps us take a look at a few natural solutions that are increasingly being adopted in contemporary wellness routines:
1. Psyllium Husk (Isabgol): A Natural Source of Fiber
Psyllium husk is known for its soluble and insoluble fiber content, which helps maintain bowel regularity. Its ability to form a gel-like consistency in the gut makes it effective in easing constipation and reducing bloating. Unlike synthetic laxatives, it works without disrupting the body's natural rhythm and may also help regulate cholesterol and support healthy metabolism.
Triphala, a classical Ayurvedic formulation, combines three fruits—Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Together, they support gentle detoxification of the digestive tract, aid nutrient absorption, and encourage regular elimination. Triphala is also a natural source of antioxidants and vitamin C, contributing to better gut health.
Herbs like Bael leaf and Chandrashoor (garden cress seeds) are traditionally used to soothe intestinal inflammation, particularly in individuals prone to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms. When combined with fiber-rich ingredients like Isabgol, they support comprehensive gut care, relieving both occasional and chronic irregularities.
4. Tulsi and Ginger: Time-Tested Digestive Herbs
Tulsi (holy basil) and ginger are widely recognized for their digestive properties. Tulsi helps combat stress-induced digestive issues, while ginger stimulates digestive enzymes and improves digestion and metabolism. Infusions made with these herbs, either alone or in combination with green tea, can be a soothing addition to post-meal routines.
Beyond specific ingredients, the act of caring for digestion—whether through sipping herbal tea or taking a daily capsule—can help anchor better lifestyle habits. Ayurvedic practitioners often emphasize routine, suggesting that consistency plays a key role in digestive harmony.
As with any wellness approach, choosing the right products—chemical-free, pure, and authentic—is critical. 'I personally recommend Organic India's Psyllium Husk, Triphala, and Tulsi Ginger Tea to my clients suffering from digestive issues," says Ruchi Sharma. 'Crafted in their pure, organic form and made without chemicals, these 100% whole-herb products preserve nature's complete nutrition while supporting gut health. Nature's purity plays a vital role in fostering a thriving microbiome by delivering untainted, whole-herb nourishment that nurtures balance, vitality, and long-term digestive wellness."
Gut health is foundational—not just for digestion, but for holistic well-being. Whether you're looking to address occasional discomfort or build long-term digestive resilience, nature has time-tested solutions worth exploring. As awareness grows around preventive health, these traditional remedies continue to find relevance in the modern world.
First Published:
May 29, 2025, 12:01 IST
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
42 minutes ago
- Hans India
Why Kitchen Staples Can Beat Costly K-Beauty Products
When it comes to achieving glowing, healthy skin, Korean beauty (K-beauty) products are often the go-to for skincare enthusiasts. With their elaborate routines and high-tech formulations, it's no surprise that K-beauty has taken the global skincare market by storm. But what if the secret to radiant skin isn't tucked inside an expensive serum bottle—but already sitting in your kitchen? From ancient Ayurvedic remedies to grandmother-approved rituals, natural skincare using everyday kitchen ingredients has stood the test of time. Unlike many commercial products packed with artificial additives and harsh chemicals, these humble ingredients are gentle, nourishing, and highly effective. They target concerns like dullness, dryness, pigmentation, and breakouts—without burning a hole in your wallet. Here are five powerful kitchen staples that deliver glow-boosting results, often better than expensive store-bought alternatives: 1. Honey – Nature's Hydration Hero Say goodbye to costly sheet masks. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. Rich in antibacterial and soothing properties, it's ideal for calming breakouts while deeply hydrating. Apply a thin layer of raw honey on damp skin for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. For added radiance, try mixing it with a few drops of lemon juice or rose water. 2. Turmeric – The Brightening Powerhouse Known for its anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, turmeric is a natural glow-getter. It tackles pigmentation, evens out skin tone, and revives dull complexions. Mix half a teaspoon with two tablespoons of curd or honey and apply it as a face mask once a week. Just don't overdo it—turmeric is potent and can stain. 3. Aloe Vera – The OG Soothing Gel While snail mucin creams are popular in K-beauty, aloe vera offers a pure, plant-based alternative. Scoop out the gel from a fresh aloe leaf, refrigerate it briefly, and apply it to your face. Its hydrating and healing properties help soothe irritation and replenish tired skin. Combine it with rose water for a cooling face mask. 4. Cucumber – Instant Refreshment Hydrating and anti-inflammatory, cucumber is a staple in both traditional remedies and commercial skincare. Rather than relying on synthetic extracts, blend fresh cucumber and apply the juice using a cotton pad as a natural toner. It helps reduce puffiness and soothes sun-stressed skin. You can also store it in the fridge for a refreshing daily spritz. 5. Besan (Gram Flour) – Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliator While enzyme peels are all the rage in Korean skincare, besan has long been used in Indian households for exfoliation and tan removal. It's gentle, natural, and doesn't strip the skin of essential oils. Mix it with milk or yoghurt and a pinch of turmeric to form a paste. Use it twice a week as a mild scrub or a revitalising mask. You don't need to spend thousands on imported skincare for a healthy glow. Sometimes, the most effective beauty secrets are right in your kitchen—natural, affordable, and time-tested.
NDTV
9 hours ago
- NDTV
7 Lesser-Known Regional Drinks Of India That Are Cooling, Hydrating And Mouth-Watering
Show Quick Read Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed India's long, hot weather has inspired a rich tradition of cooling beverages across its diverse regions. Beyond the popular nimbu paani, lassi, and aam panna lie hidden gems-regional drinks deeply rooted in local ingredients, customs, and climate. These drinks not only reflect the ingenuity of India's culinary heritage but also offer sustainable, local ways to beat the heat naturally. Here are Seven Regional Indian Drinks for Good Hydration: 1. Bel Sharbat Region: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh Key Ingredient: Bael (wood apple) A traditional Ayurvedic coolant, bel sharbat is made by scooping out the pulp of bael fruit, mixing it with water and jaggery. Rich in fibre and antioxidants, it cools the stomach and aids digestion during hot months. The juice contains essential nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Traditionally, it has been used to treat diarrhea, constipation, and dysentery. Check out this quick recipe: Fresh Bel Cooler Recipe 2. Panakam Region: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh Key Ingredients: Jaggery, dry ginger, cardamom, tulsi Panakam is a sacred summer drink often prepared during festivals like Rama Navami. It's a perfect blend of sweetness and spice, known to hydrate and balance the body's heat. Dry ginger and cardamom are used for their cooling and digestive properties, while tulsi is well-documented for improving immunity. 3. Chhaang Region: Sikkim, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh Key Ingredients: Fermented millet or barley Served both warm and cold, Chhaang is a mildly alcoholic drink made by fermenting millet or barley. While typically consumed in winter, a diluted version is used as a summer coolant in some Himalayan villages. The fermentation process enhances its vitamin and mineral content, boosting immune function and producing lactic acid, which has antimicrobial properties. 4. Phalsa Sherbet Region: Northern India Key Ingredient: Phalsa (Grewia asiatica) This tangy-sweet sherbet, made from the tiny purple phalsa fruit, is popular in parts of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. It cools the body, aids digestion, and is rich in vitamin C. The fruit is packed with vitamins (A and C), minerals (calcium, phosphorus, and iron), and antioxidants like anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, making it a must-have for hydration and immunity. Check out this quick recipe: Phalse Ka Sharbat Recipe 5. Ragi Ambli Region: Karnataka Key Ingredients: Ragi (finger millet), buttermilk, curry leaves A nutritious and probiotic-rich drink made from fermented ragi flour and buttermilk, it's often seasoned with curry leaves and mustard seeds. It's highly cooling and sustaining, especially for those heading out into the sun. Ragi is a treasure trove of nutrients, containing calcium, iron, fibre, and essential amino acids, making it a perfect summer cooler. Check out this quick recipe: 6. Tanka Torani Region: Odisha Key Ingredients: Leftover rice water, curd, spices Tanka Torani is a probiotic-rich drink made with fermented rice water, curd, cumin, and mint. Traditionally offered in Jagannath temples, it's known for its cooling and hydrating properties. In the summer, it helps you stay energetic by replenishing fluids and electrolytes without adding too many calories. Its probiotic profile also protects against stomach infections. 7. Kokum Sharbat Region: Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka Kokum Image Credit: iStock Key Ingredient: Kokum (Garcinia indica) Made from the dried rind of the kokum fruit, this tangy-sweet drink is popular in coastal areas. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and helps prevent dehydration. It also has a positive effect on acidity, enhances digestion, and its antioxidant properties contribute to overall well-being. Check out this quick recipe: Maharashtrian Kokomo Sherbet Recipe So the next time the mercury rises, look beyond soda cans and explore India's rich tapestry of regional refreshments!
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Time of India
Is eating curd daily not safe for your health? Ayurveda warns about the risks of overconsumption
Curd, also known as dahi, is a staple in many Indian households and widely considered a superfood. Rich in probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, it supports gut health, enhances digestion, and boosts immunity. Its natural good bacteria help balance the intestinal flora, making curd an excellent dietary choice for most people. However, as with any healthy food, moderation is key. Overconsumption of curd can potentially cause more harm than good. What happens when you eat too much curd While the probiotics in curd are beneficial, consuming large amounts of it daily can disrupt the gut's delicate microbial balance. A study by the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in the US found that excessive intake of probiotics can lead to an overgrowth of certain bacteria, overshadowing other essential microbes. This imbalance may cause uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as Gas and bloating Constipation or diarrhoea Indigestion or stomach cramps In essence, too much curd can disturb the harmony within your gut, defeating the very purpose for which it is consumed. When curd may do more harm than good: who should avoid it and why While curd is widely praised for its probiotics and digestive benefits, it may not suit everyone—especially individuals with weakened immunity, sensitive digestion, or histamine intolerance. For such people, daily consumption of curd can sometimes worsen existing health issues or trigger new symptoms. Those prone to yeast or fungal infections, acid reflux, mouth ulcers, or skin irritation may find that curd aggravates their condition. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like What Happens When You Massage Baking Soda Into Your Scalp Read More Undo As a fermented dairy product, curd contains histamines and lactic acid bacteria, which may cause inflammatory or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Furthermore, those with lactose intolerance may experience bloating, gas, or discomfort after eating it. Curd isn't one-size-fits-all. It's important to observe how your body responds and tailor your intake accordingly—especially if you're managing chronic gut or immune issues. Why Ayurveda says no to curd at night: the dosha connection and digestive risks According to Ayurveda , curd has a 'cooling' effect on the body and increases kapha dosha, which governs mucus and fluid balance. Eating curd at night, especially during colder months, may lead to: Sinus congestion Cold and cough Sore throat or difficulty in digestion Ayurvedic practitioners recommend avoiding curd in the evening and during winter. Instead, lighter alternatives like buttermilk (chaas), spiced raita, or diluted lassi are considered easier to digest and more suitable for regular use. Excess lactic acid may cause other health issues In rare cases, high levels of lactic acid bacteria from curd consumption may lead to inflammatory or allergic reactions. Health experts have observed instances of: Skin rashes or allergies Urinary tract infections (UTIs) Oral ulcers or bad breath These side effects are usually seen in people who consume curd in large quantities without considering their body's response or existing conditions. How much curd is safe to eat daily? Most nutritionists recommend limiting curd intake to around half a bowl per day, ideally consumed during lunch when digestive fire (agni) is stronger. Some additional tips to enjoy curd safely include: Opt for homemade curd: It's free from preservatives and added sugars. Choose lighter forms: Go for buttermilk, raita, or lassi instead of thick curd. Avoid combining with certain foods: Don't eat curd with fish, onions, or fruits as per Ayurveda. Store and serve it fresh: Avoid stale or sour curd that can irritate the gut lining. Curd is undeniably nutritious and offers several health benefits when eaten in moderation. However, excessive or inappropriate consumption, especially at night or during certain seasons, may backfire, causing digestive distress or other health concerns. For children, the elderly, or individuals with specific health conditions, it's best to consult a doctor or dietitian before including curd as a daily staple. Remember, even healthy foods need to be consumed mindfully. Moderation, individual tolerance, and timing are just as important as quality when it comes to curd consumption and gut health. Also Read: No rice, no roti for 30 days: Surprising changes in your body
