The winter season is here and this change of season calls for extra care of the immunity. And one of the best ways to keep the body warm and safe during this season is by consuming a tablespoon of Chyawanprash. As per the National Library of Medicine, Chyawanprash, also known as chyavanaprasha, chyawanprash, chyavanaprasam, and chyawanaprash) comprises two words, “Chyawan” and “Prasha”. The word Chyawan is the name of a sage, and also symbolizes ‘degenerative change’. Prasha denotes a drug or foodstuff that is suitable for consumption.
Chyawanprash and Ayurveda
Chyawanprash is an ancient Indian formulation (a polyherbal jam), prepared according to a traditional Ayurvedic recipe, enriched with several herbs, herbal extracts, and processed minerals. Rasayana, a branch of Ayurveda, which includes a number of specialized approaches aimed at prolonging life, preventing aging and diseases, has also mentioned about consuming Chyawanprash and its benefits. Of all the Rasayana formulations enumerated during the classical and medieval periods, Chyawanprash undoubtedly stands out as the most important. The Chyawanprash formula is described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts, namely, Ashtanga Hridayam, Charaka Samhita, Sangandhara Samhita, which are dedicated to clinical management.
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As per the National Library of Medicine, Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic health supplement which is made up of a super-concentrated blend of nutrient-rich herbs and minerals. It is meant to restore drained reserves of life force (ojas) and to preserve strength, stamina, and vitality, while stalling the course of aging. It also says that Chyawanprash is formulated by processing around 50 medicinal herbs and their extracts, including amla, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and more.
Also Read: Facts about Chyawanprash
Take a look at its benefits:
Boosts immunity: Chyawanprash is like a powerhouse for your immune system. Packed with a mix of herbs, spices, and Amla, it helps strengthen your defenses against various infections and illnesses.
Aids digestion: The digestive system gets a kickstart with Chyawanprash. It contains ingredients like ginger and cardamom, which can help soothe indigestion, bloating, and constipation. It’s like a natural digestive elixir for your tummy.
Improves respiratory health: If you suffer from respiratory issues, Chyawanprash can be your best friend. It contains herbs like vasaka and long pepper that can help ease breathing problems and promote overall lung health.
Boosts energy levels: Feeling low on energy? Chyavanprash has got your back. The blend of herbs and spices in this wonderful concoction can give you a natural, sustained energy boost to power through your day.
Enhances skin health: Chyawanprash is known for its potential to promote radiant skin. The antioxidants in Amla can help reduce signs of aging and keep your skin looking youthful and glowing.
Supports heart health: Caring for your heart is essential, and Chyawanprash can help. It contains ingredients like arjuna, which may help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Strengthens muscles and bones: For those who love to stay active, Chyawanprash can be an excellent addition to your diet. With herbs like ashwagandha and shatavari, it may support muscle and bone health, helping you stay strong and flexible.
Improves cognitive function: Chyawanprash is often touted as a brain booster. The herbs it contains can help enhance memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. It’s like a little brain fuel in a spoonful.
How to make Chyawanprash at home
Ingredients
½ kg amla, ⅓ cup ghee, 400 grams jaggery, 10-12 few saffron strands, 2 dry bay leaves, 5-6 grams dry ginger, 2 cinnamon sticks, 10 grams bamboo manna, 7-8 long pepper, 1 nutmeg, 8 green cardamom, 8-10 cloves, and 10 black pepper
Step 1
Take all the dry ingredients and grind them into very fine powder. Sieve the powder into a bowl and keep it aside.Take jaggery and break it into small pieces.
Step 2
First wash all the berries properly and pierce them with a fork. Now, take a pressure cooker and fill it with 2 cups of water. Add berries and pressure cook for two whistles. Let the pressure subside and then remove the soft berries from the cooker. Wait for them to cool down a bit and remove the seeds. Grind the berries till there are no lumps left in the puree.
Step 3
In a non-stick pan, add ghee to it. Now, add the prepared puree to the pan and cook it for some time on low flame. The mixture will thicken up a bit and lose its excessive water. Add the jaggery to it and combine them well. It will thicken again and the color of the mixture will get a brownish hue. Stir it for 5-7 constantly.
Step 4
Let the mixture leave the sides of the pan, at this point, add the powdered spices in it and mix well.
Step 5
Now, add saffron strands and stir it again. Let it cook for another 2 minutes and remove from the flame.
Step 6
Let it cool down completely and then transfer the Chyawanprash to a clean jar. Enjoy a tablespoon of it with a warm glass of milk.
