Herbs for the Practice of Yoga

• Herbs can be used to aid on different levels of the yoga practice; physical body or mind body. The ‘soma’ of the herb is a volatile substance found in wild or freshly picked plants which is the life-essence. High altitudes contain higher levels of cosmic and astral prana. Preparation of the plant affects the soma as well. Dosha types depend on appropriateness of herbal treatment. 

  • Physical body: Herbs can affect the body by increasing flexibility, promotes circulation, improves musculoskeletal function, increases energy and vitality, increases stamina and endurance, removes toxins from the blood, protects joints/ ligaments, and relaxes the nervous system. 

    • Some commonly used herbs for the physical body yoga practice include: myrrh, turmeric, saffron, Siberian ginseng, angelica, kava kava, ashwagandha, dioscorea, licorice, saw palmetto, aloe gel, gentian, barberry, gotu kola, brahmi, plantain, dandelion, comfrey leaf, nettles, yarrow,and  yellow dock. 

  • Mind body: Herbs used for the mind and meditation often are nervine in nature. Meaning they have a calming or stimulating effect on the nervous system by clearing mucus from the head, increasing cerebral circulation, increasing discrimination, help with insights, increase awareness and intelligence, strength of the mind, calm or sedative, pain relieving agents, and mind tonics. 

    • Some commonly used herbs for the mind/meditation practice include: tulsi, basil, bayberry, ephedra, sage, elecampane, brahmi, gotu kola, ashwagandha, shatavari, lotus seed, valerian, nutmeg, passion flower, kava kava, scullcap, lady’s slipper, and zizyphus seed.  

      Written by Dr. Shylah Schauer