Rain showers, in most cases not only cause physical discomfort but also lead to outbreak of various water borne and other diseases. The humid climate, accumulation of stagnant waters are conducive factors for the growth of viruses. The exponential rise in their numbers is one of the main reasons for spread of diseases. Common colds and flu become rampant and along with them viral fevers, hepatitis, cholera as well as other respiratory tract infections. The body’s immune system is weak in majority of people and thus they fall prey to such outbreaks.

In such situations, there are certain herbs in Ayurveda, whose benefits assume great significance. Some of them are:

        • Ajwain
        • Adulsa
        • Triphala
        • Behda
        • Haritki 
   

A brief idea of their importance especially during rains can be outlined as follows:

Ajwain

The seeds of Ajwain are enriched in macro and micro nutrients and contain maximum percentage of Thymol. Though it is beneficial throughout the year it is particularly more effective during the winter and rainy seasons. The uses of this herb are many such as solving digestion problems, flatulence, acting as antipyretic and antiseptic. Ingesting Ajwain and salt with sips of warm water provides instant relief against stomach ache. Chewing seeds of Ajwain with warm water is a sure shot remedy for coughs and cold as well as headaches. Asthmatic patients whose problems are aggravated during rains also find relief by inhaling smoke of Ajwain and ingesting it internally with one tsp of jaggery. The severity of intestinal bacterial infection and threadworms can be reduced by this wonder herb.

Adulsa

This herb is prescribed by Ayurvedic physicians in treatment of several types of respiratory disorders. The leaves of this plant contain medicinal properties and their juice and decoction is highly effective in chronic coughs, asthma, breathlessness and bronchitis. It has anti-spasmodic and antiseptic properties and is most effective in controlling muscular spasms or bleeding gums.

Triphala (Amala, Behda, Haritki)

The term means ‘three fruits’ and is a combination of three fruits namely Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki. The features of Triphala are essentially dependant on the characteristics of its three components.

Amalaki has the highest content of Vitamin C and hence heals wounds faster and hastens blood clotting.

Bibhitaki is popularly known as Behda. Besides possessing antipyretic properties it is also effective in healing wounds. Haritaki helps in enhancing the working of the stomach and aids digestion. In fact, it oversees the entire functioning of the body processes right from digestion, absorption, assimilation to excretory functions.

Triphala thus becomes a deadly combination of three most effective herbs in Ayurveda and is one of the most significant contributor in Ayurvedic medicines. It is acclaimed all over the world as a remedy to digestive problems and flatulence. It cleans the intestinal tract of toxins and helps to reduce excess acidity in the stomach. Liver disorders, nervous disorders, gout, ocular problems can all be sorted out through the use of Triphala.

The onset of rains herald the arrival of various diseases and epidemics. At such times it is very essential to improve the immunity of your body. This can be done by resorting to the vast herbal treasure of Ayurvedic medicine.