Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system of medicine that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. It is considered one of the oldest healthcare systems in the world. The word “Ayurveda” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ayur” meaning life and “Veda” meaning knowledge or science. Thus, Ayurveda can be translated as the “Science of Life” or the “Knowledge of Life.”
Ayurveda is a comprehensive approach to health and well-being that encompasses various aspects of life, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It offers a personalized approach to healthcare, focusing on maintaining balance and harmony within the body, mind, and spirit to prevent and treat diseases.
Ayurveda also recognizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body and emphasizes the importance of maintaining emotional and mental balance for overall health.
I wanted to talk about one of my favorite grains BUCKWHEAT! At the end of this article, I have included a delicious recipe.
Buckwheat, also known as kuttu or Fagopyrum esculentum, is a nutritious grain-like seed that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is gluten-free and rich in various beneficial compounds, offering several health benefits.
Top 10 Benefits of Buckwheat
Here are some Ayurvedic benefits of buckwheat:
- Nutritional value: Buckwheat is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamins (B-complex vitamins) and minerals (magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, copper, and iron). It provides essential nutrients to support overall health and well-being. For people struggling with Anemia, this is a wonderful grain!
- Digestive health: Buckwheat has a high fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes bowel regularity. It helps prevent constipation, supports a healthy digestive system, and can alleviate digestive issues such as bloating and gas.
- Balances doshas: According to Ayurveda, buckwheat has a balancing effect Kapha dosha by helping with excess heaviness and water retention in the body. It is considered sattvic, meaning it promotes clarity, peace, and balance in the body and mind.
- Heart Health: Buckwheat is known for its heart-protective properties. It contains flavonoids, particularly rutin, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation, supports blood vessel health, and improves circulation. It may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Blood sugar control: Buckwheat has a low glycemic index, which means it causes a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels compared to other grains. It can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
- Weight management: Buckwheat’s high fiber and protein content help promote satiety and reduce food cravings, making it beneficial for weight management. It provides sustained energy and helps maintain a healthy weight.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Buckwheat contains various bioactive compounds, including antioxidants and phenolic compounds, that possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help reduce inflammation in the body and may provide relief from inflammatory conditions.
- Skin health: Ayurveda considers buckwheat beneficial for maintaining healthy skin. The antioxidants present in buckwheat help protect the skin against oxidative stress and promote a youthful appearance.
- Easy To Cook: Preparing Buckwheat is very simple. You can purchase Cream of Buckwheat cereal and just add water to have your breakfast porridge ready to eat in 10 minutes! Great for people who don’t like to cook fancy recipes.
- Antioxidant properties: Buckwheat contains various antioxidants, including rutin, quercetin, and phenolic acids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
It’s important to note that Ayurvedic practices consider the individual’s unique constitution (dosha) when recommending dietary choices. If you have specific health concerns or dietary needs, it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
Recipe:
10-Minute Cream of Buckwheat Breakfast Cereal (Can be purchased on Vitacost.com)
¼ Cup Cream of Buckwheat
1 Cup of Filtered Water
Directions: Boil water and then add cream of buckwheat, cover and cook on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if needed to properly cook the buckwheat fully. Add 1 tsp of ghee or 1 tsp of butter to taste. Add salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Add–ons:
-You can try 1 tsp of your favorite (preservative free) Organic Jam and 1 tsp of butter
-You can try toasted Sunflower seeds (Take 1 tsp Raw Sunflower Seeds and Toast in a pan with a little ghee or Olive Oil, then add a pinch of salt) added to your favorite buckwheat cereal
for added protein and a little crunch.
-Get creative! Try different healthy add-on’s and email your favorite ones and I’ll try it out and if I like it I’ll feature it on my next article 😊 info@anuayurvedahealth.com
Stay Healthy,
Sondra Rubin
Anu Ayurveda Health Center
702-613-7319
Board Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner
(National Ayurvedic Medical Association Certification Board)