Ayurveda is our very own ancient science of wellness. It prescribes various herbs and supplements for the treatment of diseases and leading a healthy life. There are tonics and teas in the airbed that can boost your metabolism, help in detoxification, and control appetite. These are also low in calories and rich in antioxidants benefitting the immune system. These if used regularly have a positive impact on the system and promote weight loss. Ayurveda offers a variety of teas and tonics known for their potential weight loss benefits.
Here are some effective recipes for weight loss:
1. Triphala Tea
Triphala is a blend of three fruits namely Amla (Indian gooseberry), Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It is known for its digestive and detoxifying properties. It can be easily prepared by boiling a teaspoon of Triphala powder in a cup of water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink on an empty stomach in the morning or before bed.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger helps boost metabolism, reduces appetite, and aids digestion. Prepare it by boiling fresh ginger grated or sliced in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and add honey or lemon for taste and drink it warm.
3. Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon helps in regulating blood sugar levels and also reduces cravings. For preparation, add a cinnamon stick or a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to boiling water. Let it steep for a few minutes and strain the liquid using a strainer. Drink it warm.
4. Cumin, Coriander, and Fennel (CCF) Tea
This combination aids digestion, reduces bloating and detoxifies the body. To prepare boil a teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds in water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm.
5. Green Tea with Lemon and Honey
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and boosts metabolism, while lemon and honey enhance the flavor and provide additional health benefits. Just brew a cup of green tea and add a teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice to it.
6. Fenugreek Tea
Fenugreek seeds are known to help control appetite and improve digestion. fenugreek also soothes stomach inflammation if any. For making this tea, Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Boil the soaked seeds in the same water in the morning, strain, and drink warm.
7. Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea
Tulsi helps reduce stress, which can contribute to weight gain and boosts metabolism. Boil a few fresh or dried Tulsi leaves in water for 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink warm.
8. Aloe Vera juice :
Aloe Vera juice is a great tonic in ayurveda which helps improve digestion and aids in detoxification. To prepare this mix two tablespoons of aloe vera juice in a glass of water. Drink on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefit.
9. Lemon and Honey Water :
This simple tonic boosts metabolism and aids digestion. It is very simple to prepare too. Squeeze half a slice of lemon into a glass of warm water and add a teaspoon of honey to it. Drink it empty stomach first thing in the morning.
10. Guggul Tonic :
Guggul is obtained from the resin of the Mukul myrrh tree. It helps regulate cholesterol and supports weight loss. You may buy Guggul powder from any ayurvedic shop. Mix a quarter teaspoon of Guggul powder in warm water. Drink once or twice daily.
11. Ginger and Lemon Tonic :
Ginger boosts metabolism and aids digestion, while lemon detoxifies the body. Mix fresh ginger juice (1-2 teaspoons) with the juice of half a lemon in warm water. Drink empty stomach in the morning.
12. Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey Tonic :
Apple cider vinegar helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves metabolism. To prepare this tonic, mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of warm water. Drink before meals.
13. Turmeric and Ginger Tonic :
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger helps in boosting metabolism. For preparation, mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder and half a teaspoon of ginger powder in warm water. Add honey for taste if desired. Drink once daily.
14. Garcinia juice :
Garcinia is a popular fruit known as kokum and Malabar tamarind. It has a sour taste and helps with weight management and controlling bad cholesterol. It is sometimes combined with aloe vera or some other juice for extra benefit.
15. Kalonji tea :
Kalonji or onion seeds are also great for weight loss. Take a cup of water in a pan and add half a teaspoon of kalonji seeds. Boil for a few minutes on low flame and strain it. You may add a few drops of honey or lemon juice for taste if you want. Drink warm.
Some of the other popular ingredients for weight loss drinks/ tonics are curry leaves, mint, haritaki, ajwain, and Pippali, etc.
Tips for Effective Use:
Here are some tips to consume these drinks most effectively.
- Be regular as regular consumption is key for effective results.
- Consume in moderation. Limit it to 1-2 cups a day.
- Drink these slowly for maximum benefit.
- Timing is important. There should be at least 30 minutes gap between your tea and meal. Do not drink with a meal. Also, avoid before bedtime as some of these may interfere with sleep.
- Complement these teas and tonics with a balanced diet. Remember that calorie deficit in diet is still important.
- Be regular with your physical activity for better results as it helps you burn extra calories.
- Consult a Professional: Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Incorporating these Ayurvedic teas and tonics does not have any side effects as these are prepared from natural and easily available ingredients. Having these regularly can help support weight loss and improve overall health when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Some commercial formulations combine some of the above ingredients to prepare a unique blend for weight loss. You may also buy them after consulting with your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner.