Nitric-oxide Foods & Herbs List: An Ayurveda Perspective

INGREDIENTS WITH NITRIC-OXIDE

View By: Dosha Herbal Action Biocharacteristics (energetics) Taste System Meal Season

Neutral (Tridoshic)
Cilantro
Fennel Seeds
Aggravates
Spinach
Reduces
Beets
Chives
Garlic
Orange
Rhubarb
Reduces
Banana
Carrot
Chicken
Leeks
Pomegranate Molasses
Shallots
Aggravates
Chocolate (Cacao)
Reduces
Basil
Dill
Fennel Stalk
Garlic (raw)
Parsley (Fresh)
Scallions (Raw)
Reduces
Cucumber
Reduces
Arugula
Bok Choy
Broccoli
Cabbage (cooked)
Cabbage (raw)
Cauliflower
Chard
Endive
Kale
Pomegranate
Watermelon
Reduces
Celery Root
Celery Seed
Celery Stalk
Radish (raw)
Red Onion (raw)
Spirulina
Turnip

Alkalizing
ALKALIZING
An herb or food that makes the urine more alkaline (higher pH). This herbal action can be helpful for a number of inflammatory conditions.
SEE ALL 'ALKALIZING' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Banana , Basil , Beets , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Carrot , Cauliflower , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chives , Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Garlic , Kale , Leeks , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate Molasses , Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Turnip , Watermelon

Internal Detoxicant
INTERNAL-DETOXICANT
Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system.
SEE ALL 'INTERNAL-DETOXICANT' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Carrot , Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Chives , Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Kale , Leeks , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Radish (raw), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw)

Green

Arugula , Basil , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Celery Stalk , Chard , Chives , Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Leeks , Parsley (Fresh), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Spirulina , Watermelon

Air
AIR
Resembles air (vayu) in quality - highly mobile, drying, light, cold, subtle, rough.
SEE ALL 'AIR' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Chocolate (Cacao), Cilantro , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate , Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Spirulina

Diuretic
DIURETIC
Herbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'DIURETIC' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Carrot , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Watermelon

Fire
FIRE
Resembles fire (tejas) in quality - hot, sharp, penetrating, light, dry.
SEE ALL 'FIRE' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chives , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate Molasses , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spirulina , Turnip

Earth
EARTH
Resembles earth (prithvi) in quality - heavy, dense, solid, stable, hard.
SEE ALL 'EARTH' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Beets , Carrot , Celery Root , Chicken , Chocolate (Cacao), Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Rhubarb , Shallots , Spirulina , Turnip

Sattvic
SATTVIC
Sattvic foods promote awareness and a refreshed mind by nourishing the body without taxing digestion. Sattvic foods do not stimulate desire or nervous energy. They create clarity instead of drowsiness or heaviness.
SEE ALL 'SATTVIC' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Banana , Basil , Beets , Carrot , Celery Stalk , Cilantro , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate , Spirulina , Watermelon

Rajasic
RAJASIC
Rajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement.
SEE ALL 'RAJASIC' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Beets , Broccoli , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chocolate (Cacao), Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Orange , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Turnip

Prana
PRANA
Prana is the Sanskrit word for vital life energy (Qi in Chinese Medicine, pneuma in Greek). Many herbs stimulate your energy, or improve the flow of prana through your body. Generally, prana needs to be increased in spring after a sleepy winter.
SEE ALL 'PRANA' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Broccoli , Carrot , Celery Stalk , Chard , Cilantro , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Parsley (Fresh), Spinach , Spirulina

Anti Inflammatory
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Reduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.
SEE ALL 'ANTI-INFLAMMATORY' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Beets , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Cauliflower , Celery Seed , Cilantro , Cucumber , Endive , Kale , Pomegranate , Spinach , Spirulina

Vasodilator
VASODILATOR
A vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.
SEE ALL 'VASODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Beets , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chives , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw)

Hypolipidemic
HYPOLIPIDEMIC
Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells.
SEE ALL 'HYPOLIPIDEMIC' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Broccoli , Celery Stalk , Cilantro , Endive , Garlic (raw), Kale , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Turnip

Stimulates Energy
STIMULATES-ENERGY
This category groups thyroid and adrenal stimulating herbs.
SEE ALL 'STIMULATES-ENERGY' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Beets , Celery Root , Chocolate (Cacao), Cilantro , Dill , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Orange

Hypotensive
HYPOTENSIVE
An herb that lowers blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'HYPOTENSIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Carrot , Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Cucumber , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Red Onion (raw)

Antispasmodic
ANTISPASMODIC
Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, heart palpitations, migraine, or IBS.
SEE ALL 'ANTISPASMODIC' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Beets , Celery Seed , Chocolate (Cacao), Dill , Fennel Seeds , Garlic , Parsley (Fresh)

Antioxidant
ANTIOXIDANT
An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions.
SEE ALL 'ANTIOXIDANT' FOODS / HERBS

Carrot , Cauliflower , Chocolate (Cacao), Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate , Spinach , Watermelon

Expectorant
EXPECTORANT
Expectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.
SEE ALL 'EXPECTORANT' FOODS / HERBS

Dill , Fennel Seeds , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw)

Calcium Channel Blocker
CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER
Reduces blood pressure by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Blocking calcium (Ca2+) inhibits smooth muscle contraction.
SEE ALL 'CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER' FOODS / HERBS

Carrot , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw)

Immune Calming
IMMUNE-CALMING
Herbs that interrupt an allergic reaction or calm the immune system, useful in allergies and autoimmune conditions.
SEE ALL 'IMMUNE-CALMING' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Cilantro , Fennel Seeds , Pomegranate , Red Onion (raw)

Coumarin

Carrot , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk

Bronchodilator
BRONCHODILATOR
An herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.
SEE ALL 'BRONCHODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Chocolate (Cacao), Garlic (raw), Red Onion (raw)

Anticarcinogenic
ANTICARCINOGENIC
Herbs that inhibit or prevent the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer.
SEE ALL 'ANTICARCINOGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Carrot

Analgesic
ANALGESIC
Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.
SEE ALL 'ANALGESIC' FOODS / HERBS

Fennel Seeds

Hepatoprotective
HEPATOPROTECTIVE
An herb that is capable of preventing liver damage. Many hepatoprotectives work via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
SEE ALL 'HEPATOPROTECTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Beets

Liquefied
LIQUEFIED
Substances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs.
SEE ALL 'LIQUEFIED' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Broccoli , Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chard , Chocolate (Cacao), Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Kale , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Turnip , Watermelon

Clear
CLEAR
Clear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama.
SEE ALL 'CLEAR' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Bok Choy , Cabbage (cooked), Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Garlic (raw), Kale , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Spirulina , Watermelon

Dry
DRY
Dry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis.
SEE ALL 'DRY' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Cilantro , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Parsley (Fresh), Watermelon

Light
LIGHT
Lightness is identified by reduced weight.
SEE ALL 'LIGHT' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Broccoli , Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Cilantro , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Parsley (Fresh), Spinach , Spirulina , Watermelon

Hot
HOT
Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.
SEE ALL 'HOT' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Broccoli , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chocolate (Cacao), Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Spirulina , Turnip

Easy
EASY
Easy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly.
SEE ALL 'EASY' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Banana , Basil , Carrot , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Cilantro , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Garlic , Kale , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Pomegranate , Watermelon

Cold
COLD
Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.
SEE ALL 'COLD' FOODS / HERBS

Bok Choy , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Carrot , Chard , Cilantro , Cucumber , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Kale , Orange , Pomegranate , Watermelon

Mobile
MOBILE
Mobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.
SEE ALL 'MOBILE' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chocolate (Cacao), Dill , Endive , Garlic (raw), Kale , Orange , Radish (raw), Spirulina

Difficult
DIFFICULT
Difficult refers to anything that is difficult to digest, or takes a long time to digest.
SEE ALL 'DIFFICULT' FOODS / HERBS

Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Cauliflower , Chocolate (Cacao), Radish (raw), Spirulina

Heavy
HEAVY
Heavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight.
SEE ALL 'HEAVY' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Chicken , Garlic

Gooey
GOOEY
Gooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion.
SEE ALL 'GOOEY' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Chicken

Oily
OILY
In Ayurveda, oily refers to anything moistening. More specifically, oily refers to building substances that increases fat, or are themselves fatty. For example, sugar is Oily.
SEE ALL 'OILY' FOODS / HERBS

Chicken

Bitter
BITTER
Bitter taste has cholagogue action - it is cold, clear, light, and stimulating. It increases digestive enzymes and is laxative, and drying.
SEE ALL 'BITTER' FOODS / HERBS

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Broccoli , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chard , Chocolate (Cacao), Cilantro , Cucumber , Dill , Endive , Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Kale , Leeks , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Spirulina , Turnip

Pungent
PUNGENT
Pungency is characterized by irritation, or sharp, spicy foods that irritate the mouth such as black pepper.
SEE ALL 'PUNGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chives , Cilantro , Dill , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Orange , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw)

Sweet
SWEET
Sweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
SEE ALL 'SWEET' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Beets , Bok Choy , Cabbage (cooked), Carrot , Celery Root , Chicken , Fennel Stalk , Leeks , Orange , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Red Onion (raw), Rhubarb , Scallions (Raw), Watermelon

Aromatic
AROMATIC
Herbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.
SEE ALL 'AROMATIC' FOODS / HERBS

Basil , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chives , Dill , Fennel Seeds , Fennel Stalk , Garlic (raw), Leeks , Scallions (Raw)

Astringent
ASTRINGENT
Astringency is characterized by constriction, drawing together, or drying.
SEE ALL 'ASTRINGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Beets , Chard , Cilantro , Kale , Pomegranate , Rhubarb , Spinach , Turnip

Crunchy
CRUNCHY
Makes an audible noise when you eat them. Can provide fun texture variation.
SEE ALL 'CRUNCHY' FOODS / HERBS

Bok Choy , Cabbage (cooked), Celery Stalk , Leeks , Scallions (Raw)

Sour
SOUR
Sour refers to anything fermented or acidic.
SEE ALL 'SOUR' FOODS / HERBS

Orange , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Rhubarb , Spinach

Acrid
ACRID
Acrid taste is a combination of bitter and pungent tastes. Example include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

Garlic (raw), Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw)

Salty
SALTY
Salty refers to anything with salt, or high mineral content.
SEE ALL 'SALTY' FOODS / HERBS

Spinach , Spirulina

Musky
MUSKY
Have an earthy smell to them, such as mushrooms.
SEE ALL 'MUSKY' FOODS / HERBS

Garlic (raw)

Skin Care
SKIN-CARE
Includes skin care, and anything that nourishes epithelial membranes (of digestive, respiratory, urinary tract, blood vessels, etc).
SEE ALL 'SKIN-CARE' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Carrot , Cucumber

Liver Gallbladder

Beets , Cilantro

Energy Vitality
ENERGY-VITALITY
Includes vitality improving foods, herbs, and exercises by dosha.
SEE ALL 'ENERGY-VITALITY' FOODS / HERBS

Banana , Cilantro

Bone Joint

Chard , Spinach

Immune System

Leeks , Scallions (Raw)

Muscle Health

Banana

Womens Health

Parsley (Fresh)

Reproductive Health

Parsley (Fresh)

Snack Dessert

Banana , Celery Stalk , Chocolate (Cacao), Cucumber , Orange , Pomegranate , Watermelon

Lunch Dinner

Bok Choy , Cabbage (cooked), Carrot , Cauliflower , Celery Root

Hors Doeuvres

Cauliflower , Cucumber , Leeks , Scallions (Raw)

Breakfast

Banana , Watermelon

Drink

Pomegranate

Spring

Arugula , Basil , Beets , Bok Choy , Broccoli , Cabbage (cooked), Cabbage (raw), Cauliflower , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chard , Chives , Dill , Endive , Fennel Seeds , Garlic (raw), Kale , Leeks , Parsley (Fresh), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spinach , Spirulina , Turnip

Summer

Banana , Chicken , Cilantro , Cucumber , Fennel Stalk , Orange , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Rhubarb , Watermelon

Autumn Winter

Beets , Carrot , Chocolate (Cacao), Garlic , Shallots

Browse Nitric-oxide Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH NITRIC-OXIDE

View By: Dosha Herbal Action Biocharacteristics (energetics) Taste System

Neutral (Tridoshic)
Red Clover
Reduces
Dong Quai
Reduces
Angelica
Incomplete
Arginine
Mistletoe

Anticarcinogenic
ANTICARCINOGENIC
Herbs that inhibit or prevent the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer.
SEE ALL 'ANTICARCINOGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe , Red Clover

Analgesic
ANALGESIC
Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.
SEE ALL 'ANALGESIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Red Clover

Antispasmodic
ANTISPASMODIC
Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, heart palpitations, migraine, or IBS.
SEE ALL 'ANTISPASMODIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Red Clover

Bronchodilator
BRONCHODILATOR
An herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.
SEE ALL 'BRONCHODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Red Clover

Vasodilator
VASODILATOR
A vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.
SEE ALL 'VASODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe

Hypolipidemic
HYPOLIPIDEMIC
Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells.
SEE ALL 'HYPOLIPIDEMIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe

Calcium Channel Blocker
CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER
Reduces blood pressure by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Blocking calcium (Ca2+) inhibits smooth muscle contraction.
SEE ALL 'CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe

Hypotensive
HYPOTENSIVE
An herb that lowers blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'HYPOTENSIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe

Antioxidant
ANTIOXIDANT
An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions.
SEE ALL 'ANTIOXIDANT' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Mistletoe

Anti Inflammatory
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Reduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.
SEE ALL 'ANTI-INFLAMMATORY' FOODS / HERBS

Dong Quai , Mistletoe , Red Clover

Expectorant
EXPECTORANT
Expectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.
SEE ALL 'EXPECTORANT' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Immune Calming
IMMUNE-CALMING
Herbs that interrupt an allergic reaction or calm the immune system, useful in allergies and autoimmune conditions.
SEE ALL 'IMMUNE-CALMING' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Stimulates Energy
STIMULATES-ENERGY
This category groups thyroid and adrenal stimulating herbs.
SEE ALL 'STIMULATES-ENERGY' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Stimulant Parturient
STIMULANT-PARTURIENT
Used to induce labor when labor is stalled due to weak or ineffective contractions. Includes both stimulants and oxytocic parturients.
SEE ALL 'STIMULANT-PARTURIENT' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Hepatoprotective
HEPATOPROTECTIVE
An herb that is capable of preventing liver damage. Many hepatoprotectives work via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
SEE ALL 'HEPATOPROTECTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Coumarin

Angelica , Dong Quai

Internal Detoxicant
INTERNAL-DETOXICANT
Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system.
SEE ALL 'INTERNAL-DETOXICANT' FOODS / HERBS

Dong Quai , Red Clover

Rajasic
RAJASIC
Rajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement.
SEE ALL 'RAJASIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica

Diuretic
DIURETIC
Herbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'DIURETIC' FOODS / HERBS

Red Clover

Clear
CLEAR
Clear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama.
SEE ALL 'CLEAR' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai , Red Clover

Hot
HOT
Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.
SEE ALL 'HOT' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Mobile
MOBILE
Mobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.
SEE ALL 'MOBILE' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica

Cold
COLD
Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.
SEE ALL 'COLD' FOODS / HERBS

Red Clover

Acrid
ACRID
Acrid taste is a combination of bitter and pungent tastes. Example include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Bitter
BITTER
Bitter taste has cholagogue action - it is cold, clear, light, and stimulating. It increases digestive enzymes and is laxative, and drying.
SEE ALL 'BITTER' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Aromatic
AROMATIC
Herbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.
SEE ALL 'AROMATIC' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Pungent
PUNGENT
Pungency is characterized by irritation, or sharp, spicy foods that irritate the mouth such as black pepper.
SEE ALL 'PUNGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Angelica , Dong Quai

Sweet
SWEET
Sweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
SEE ALL 'SWEET' FOODS / HERBS

Dong Quai , Red Clover

Astringent
ASTRINGENT
Astringency is characterized by constriction, drawing together, or drying.
SEE ALL 'ASTRINGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Red Clover

Respiratory Health

Angelica , Dong Quai

Skin Care
SKIN-CARE
Includes skin care, and anything that nourishes epithelial membranes (of digestive, respiratory, urinary tract, blood vessels, etc).
SEE ALL 'SKIN-CARE' FOODS / HERBS

Dong Quai , Red Clover

Anti Aging
ANTI-AGING
Geriatric conditions typically involve low agni / metabolism, poor circulation, weakness & debility, muscle weakening, poor digestion, a drop in sex hormones, and connective tissue degradation in bones & skin.
SEE ALL 'ANTI-AGING' FOODS / HERBS

Dong Quai

Liver Gallbladder

Dong Quai

Heart Circulation Blood

Dong Quai

Kidney Bladder Urinary

Red Clover

College of Ayurvedic Diet & Digestion

Nitric-oxide - Foods & Herbs ListCLASSIFICATION OF FOOD, HERBS, & LIFESTYLE

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON NITRIC-OXIDE

INGREDIENTS WITH NITRIC-OXIDE

Neutral (Tridoshic)

Aggravates

Reduces

Reduces

Aggravates

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Alkalizing ALKALIZING An herb or food that makes the urine more alkaline (higher pH). This herbal action can be helpful for a number of inflammatory conditions. SEE ALL 'ALKALIZING' FOODS / HERBS

ALKALIZING

Internal Detoxicant INTERNAL-DETOXICANT Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system. SEE ALL 'INTERNAL-DETOXICANT' FOODS / HERBS

INTERNAL-DETOXICANT

Air AIR Resembles air (vayu) in quality - highly mobile, drying, light, cold, subtle, rough. SEE ALL 'AIR' FOODS / HERBS

AIR

Diuretic DIURETIC Herbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure. SEE ALL 'DIURETIC' FOODS / HERBS

DIURETIC

Fire FIRE Resembles fire (tejas) in quality - hot, sharp, penetrating, light, dry. SEE ALL 'FIRE' FOODS / HERBS

FIRE

Earth EARTH Resembles earth (prithvi) in quality - heavy, dense, solid, stable, hard. SEE ALL 'EARTH' FOODS / HERBS

EARTH

Sattvic SATTVIC Sattvic foods promote awareness and a refreshed mind by nourishing the body without taxing digestion. Sattvic foods do not stimulate desire or nervous energy. They create clarity instead of drowsiness or heaviness. SEE ALL 'SATTVIC' FOODS / HERBS

SATTVIC

Rajasic RAJASIC Rajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement. SEE ALL 'RAJASIC' FOODS / HERBS

RAJASIC

Prana PRANA Prana is the Sanskrit word for vital life energy (Qi in Chinese Medicine, pneuma in Greek). Many herbs stimulate your energy, or improve the flow of prana through your body. Generally, prana needs to be increased in spring after a sleepy winter. SEE ALL 'PRANA' FOODS / HERBS

PRANA

Anti Inflammatory ANTI-INFLAMMATORY Reduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems. SEE ALL 'ANTI-INFLAMMATORY' FOODS / HERBS

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

Vasodilator VASODILATOR A vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area. SEE ALL 'VASODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

VASODILATOR

Hypolipidemic HYPOLIPIDEMIC Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells. SEE ALL 'HYPOLIPIDEMIC' FOODS / HERBS

HYPOLIPIDEMIC

Stimulates Energy STIMULATES-ENERGY This category groups thyroid and adrenal stimulating herbs. SEE ALL 'STIMULATES-ENERGY' FOODS / HERBS

STIMULATES-ENERGY

Hypotensive HYPOTENSIVE An herb that lowers blood pressure. SEE ALL 'HYPOTENSIVE' FOODS / HERBS

HYPOTENSIVE

Antispasmodic ANTISPASMODIC Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, heart palpitations, migraine, or IBS. SEE ALL 'ANTISPASMODIC' FOODS / HERBS

ANTISPASMODIC

Antioxidant ANTIOXIDANT An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions. SEE ALL 'ANTIOXIDANT' FOODS / HERBS

ANTIOXIDANT

Expectorant EXPECTORANT Expectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract. SEE ALL 'EXPECTORANT' FOODS / HERBS

EXPECTORANT

Calcium Channel Blocker CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER Reduces blood pressure by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Blocking calcium (Ca2+) inhibits smooth muscle contraction. SEE ALL 'CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER' FOODS / HERBS

CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER

Immune Calming IMMUNE-CALMING Herbs that interrupt an allergic reaction or calm the immune system, useful in allergies and autoimmune conditions. SEE ALL 'IMMUNE-CALMING' FOODS / HERBS

IMMUNE-CALMING

Bronchodilator BRONCHODILATOR An herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma. SEE ALL 'BRONCHODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

BRONCHODILATOR

Anticarcinogenic ANTICARCINOGENIC Herbs that inhibit or prevent the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer. SEE ALL 'ANTICARCINOGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

ANTICARCINOGENIC

Analgesic ANALGESIC Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne. SEE ALL 'ANALGESIC' FOODS / HERBS

ANALGESIC

Hepatoprotective HEPATOPROTECTIVE An herb that is capable of preventing liver damage. Many hepatoprotectives work via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. SEE ALL 'HEPATOPROTECTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

HEPATOPROTECTIVE

Liquefied LIQUEFIED Substances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs. SEE ALL 'LIQUEFIED' FOODS / HERBS

LIQUEFIED

Clear CLEAR Clear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama. SEE ALL 'CLEAR' FOODS / HERBS

CLEAR

Dry DRY Dry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis. SEE ALL 'DRY' FOODS / HERBS

DRY

Light LIGHT Lightness is identified by reduced weight. SEE ALL 'LIGHT' FOODS / HERBS

LIGHT

Hot HOT Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation. SEE ALL 'HOT' FOODS / HERBS

HOT

Easy EASY Easy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly. SEE ALL 'EASY' FOODS / HERBS

EASY

Cold COLD Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow. SEE ALL 'COLD' FOODS / HERBS

COLD

Mobile MOBILE Mobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity. SEE ALL 'MOBILE' FOODS / HERBS

MOBILE

Difficult DIFFICULT Difficult refers to anything that is difficult to digest, or takes a long time to digest. SEE ALL 'DIFFICULT' FOODS / HERBS

DIFFICULT

Heavy HEAVY Heavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight. SEE ALL 'HEAVY' FOODS / HERBS

HEAVY

Gooey GOOEY Gooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion. SEE ALL 'GOOEY' FOODS / HERBS

Alkalizing
ALKALIZING
An herb or food that makes the urine more alkaline (higher pH). This herbal action can be helpful for a number of inflammatory conditions.
SEE ALL 'ALKALIZING' FOODS / HERBS

Internal Detoxicant
INTERNAL-DETOXICANT
Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system.
SEE ALL 'INTERNAL-DETOXICANT' FOODS / HERBS

Air
AIR
Resembles air (vayu) in quality - highly mobile, drying, light, cold, subtle, rough.
SEE ALL 'AIR' FOODS / HERBS

Diuretic
DIURETIC
Herbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'DIURETIC' FOODS / HERBS

Fire
FIRE
Resembles fire (tejas) in quality - hot, sharp, penetrating, light, dry.
SEE ALL 'FIRE' FOODS / HERBS

Earth
EARTH
Resembles earth (prithvi) in quality - heavy, dense, solid, stable, hard.
SEE ALL 'EARTH' FOODS / HERBS

Sattvic
SATTVIC
Sattvic foods promote awareness and a refreshed mind by nourishing the body without taxing digestion. Sattvic foods do not stimulate desire or nervous energy. They create clarity instead of drowsiness or heaviness.
SEE ALL 'SATTVIC' FOODS / HERBS

Rajasic
RAJASIC
Rajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement.
SEE ALL 'RAJASIC' FOODS / HERBS

Prana
PRANA
Prana is the Sanskrit word for vital life energy (Qi in Chinese Medicine, pneuma in Greek). Many herbs stimulate your energy, or improve the flow of prana through your body. Generally, prana needs to be increased in spring after a sleepy winter.
SEE ALL 'PRANA' FOODS / HERBS

Anti Inflammatory
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Reduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.
SEE ALL 'ANTI-INFLAMMATORY' FOODS / HERBS

Vasodilator
VASODILATOR
A vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.
SEE ALL 'VASODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Hypolipidemic
HYPOLIPIDEMIC
Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells.
SEE ALL 'HYPOLIPIDEMIC' FOODS / HERBS

Stimulates Energy
STIMULATES-ENERGY
This category groups thyroid and adrenal stimulating herbs.
SEE ALL 'STIMULATES-ENERGY' FOODS / HERBS

Hypotensive
HYPOTENSIVE
An herb that lowers blood pressure.
SEE ALL 'HYPOTENSIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Antispasmodic
ANTISPASMODIC
Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, heart palpitations, migraine, or IBS.
SEE ALL 'ANTISPASMODIC' FOODS / HERBS

Antioxidant
ANTIOXIDANT
An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions.
SEE ALL 'ANTIOXIDANT' FOODS / HERBS

Expectorant
EXPECTORANT
Expectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.
SEE ALL 'EXPECTORANT' FOODS / HERBS

Calcium Channel Blocker
CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER
Reduces blood pressure by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Blocking calcium (Ca2+) inhibits smooth muscle contraction.
SEE ALL 'CALCIUM-CHANNEL-BLOCKER' FOODS / HERBS

Immune Calming
IMMUNE-CALMING
Herbs that interrupt an allergic reaction or calm the immune system, useful in allergies and autoimmune conditions.
SEE ALL 'IMMUNE-CALMING' FOODS / HERBS

Bronchodilator
BRONCHODILATOR
An herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.
SEE ALL 'BRONCHODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Anticarcinogenic
ANTICARCINOGENIC
Herbs that inhibit or prevent the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer.
SEE ALL 'ANTICARCINOGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Analgesic
ANALGESIC
Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.
SEE ALL 'ANALGESIC' FOODS / HERBS

Hepatoprotective
HEPATOPROTECTIVE
An herb that is capable of preventing liver damage. Many hepatoprotectives work via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
SEE ALL 'HEPATOPROTECTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Liquefied
LIQUEFIED
Substances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs.
SEE ALL 'LIQUEFIED' FOODS / HERBS

Clear
CLEAR
Clear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama.
SEE ALL 'CLEAR' FOODS / HERBS

Dry
DRY
Dry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis.
SEE ALL 'DRY' FOODS / HERBS

Light
LIGHT
Lightness is identified by reduced weight.
SEE ALL 'LIGHT' FOODS / HERBS

Hot
HOT
Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.
SEE ALL 'HOT' FOODS / HERBS

Easy
EASY
Easy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly.
SEE ALL 'EASY' FOODS / HERBS

Cold
COLD
Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.
SEE ALL 'COLD' FOODS / HERBS

Mobile
MOBILE
Mobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.
SEE ALL 'MOBILE' FOODS / HERBS

Difficult
DIFFICULT
Difficult refers to anything that is difficult to digest, or takes a long time to digest.
SEE ALL 'DIFFICULT' FOODS / HERBS

Heavy
HEAVY
Heavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight.
SEE ALL 'HEAVY' FOODS / HERBS

Gooey
GOOEY
Gooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion.
SEE ALL 'GOOEY' FOODS / HERBS

Oily
OILY
In Ayurveda, oily refers to anything moistening. More specifically, oily refers to building substances that increases fat, or are themselves fatty. For example, sugar is Oily.
SEE ALL 'OILY' FOODS / HERBS

Bitter
BITTER
Bitter taste has cholagogue action - it is cold, clear, light, and stimulating. It increases digestive enzymes and is laxative, and drying.
SEE ALL 'BITTER' FOODS / HERBS

Pungent
PUNGENT
Pungency is characterized by irritation, or sharp, spicy foods that irritate the mouth such as black pepper.
SEE ALL 'PUNGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Sweet
SWEET
Sweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
SEE ALL 'SWEET' FOODS / HERBS

Aromatic
AROMATIC
Herbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.
SEE ALL 'AROMATIC' FOODS / HERBS

Astringent
ASTRINGENT
Astringency is characterized by constriction, drawing together, or drying.
SEE ALL 'ASTRINGENT' FOODS / HERBS

Crunchy
CRUNCHY
Makes an audible noise when you eat them. Can provide fun texture variation.
SEE ALL 'CRUNCHY' FOODS / HERBS

Sour
SOUR
Sour refers to anything fermented or acidic.
SEE ALL 'SOUR' FOODS / HERBS

Acrid
ACRID
Acrid taste is a combination of bitter and pungent tastes. Example include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

Salty
SALTY
Salty refers to anything with salt, or high mineral content.
SEE ALL 'SALTY' FOODS / HERBS

Musky
MUSKY
Have an earthy smell to them, such as mushrooms.
SEE ALL 'MUSKY' FOODS / HERBS

Skin Care
SKIN-CARE
Includes skin care, and anything that nourishes epithelial membranes (of digestive, respiratory, urinary tract, blood vessels, etc).
SEE ALL 'SKIN-CARE' FOODS / HERBS

Energy Vitality
ENERGY-VITALITY
Includes vitality improving foods, herbs, and exercises by dosha.
SEE ALL 'ENERGY-VITALITY' FOODS / HERBS