The Sanskrit word for cumin is “jiraka” and derives from the root word “jeerna,” which means “to digest.” Ayurveda recommends using jiraka for many types of digestive problems.
The digestive system is a food channel that starts at the mouth and includes the throat, stomach, intestines, colon and anus. The gallbladder, liver, and pancreas are organs that also help with digestion.
Digestion is a complex process of transforming food into nutrients that the body uses for energy, growth, and cellular metabolism. The process of digestion is required for survival and the ability to digest, absorb nutrients and eliminate waste are responsible for how well health is maintained.
When our ability to digest food becomes impaired, our bodies will show us symptoms of illness. If symptoms are chronic, then digestion becomes weaker and the ability to maintain a healthy body and mind will be difficult.
Symptoms of Weak Digestion
- Excess gas
- Bloating
- Burping
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the abdomen
- Headaches
According to Ayurveda, all types of disorders are born because of weak digestive strength. Optimum health of both body and mind depends on a healthy digestive system. In Ayurveda, digestive strength is called agni which is a sanskrit word for fire. Digestive fire refers to cooking the food to substance that our cells can use. The strength of our agni fire is the most fundamental tool for longevity of life, healthy complexion, muscle strength, enthusiasm, growth and a strong immunity.
What causes digestive problems?
The main reason we get digestive problems is imbalanced eating habits. When we eat too much or eat foods that do not combine well, like fruit and dairy, eating while on the go or while working at your desk, and even eating at different times every day will cause digestive upset.
Ayurveda recommends eating at the same time every day, sitting calmly, and combining foods in a simple manner like choosing one protein and a few vegetables or eating fresh fruit by itself. Proper eating habits can go a long way toward improving digestive problems.
Kottakkal’s Jiraka Arishtam: A Healthy Digestive Aid
Jiraka Arishtam is an Ayurvedic herbal product that uses cumin (jiraka) as the main ingredient. It is recommended for all types of digestive problems, specifically kapha and vata related disorders and may also benefit pitta disorders when combined with cooling ingredients like ghee.
Many chronic health conditions can be relieved by using Jiraka Arishtam. Disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea, poor appetite and acid disorders can be relieved by using Jiraka Arishtam. It acts on the digestive system and improves digestive strength and reduces gas formation, bloating, excessive thirst, loose stools, and mucus in the stool.
Apart from digestive health, it is also beneficial for a healthy uterus and is recommended post-partum due to its detoxifying and infection fighting properties. It effectively reduces fevers and helps fight bacterial infections while improving appetite and digestion during illness.
Dosage
- Children ages 3 to 17 - take 1 to 2 tsps, with ½ cup of room temp water after meals
- Adults ages 18 and above - take 2 to 3 tsps. with ½ cup of room temp water after meals
To learn more on how to improve digestive problems, read our other article: Indigestion: the Root Causes and the Solutions.
When is it important to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner?
It’s important to consult with Ayurvedic practitioner when any digestive symptom becomes chronic and especially if it does not go away when the season changes. It is important to understand your mind and body type or dosha. And once your dosha is known it will become easier to know the right foods, herbs and lifestyle activities that will support healthy digestion.
If you have chronic digestive problems, we recommend consulting with our Ayurvedic doctor Vishwanath Guddadar to support your overall health. Following the advice from a personalized Ayurvedic consultation will change your life and will give you the knowledge required to maintain your best health.
If you book a consultation with Dr. Vishwanath Guddadar, you will receive a personalized diet, lifestyle, and herbal protocol that will strengthen your vitality and improve your overall health.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Kottakkal Ayurveda products and this information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. If you have serious, acute, or chronic health problems, please consult a trained health professional. If you are seeking the medical advice of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor, call (800) 215-9934 or email us at contact@kottakkal.shop and we will provide you with one of our affiliated Ayurvedic professionals. Check with your doctor before taking herbs when pregnant.