Outward Foods & Herbs List: An Ayurveda Perspective

Constitutional & Metabolic Insights
Outward: Symptoms
Diet Remedies by Dosha, Biocharacteristics, Action, etc.
Comments and reviews
Herb Remedies by Dosha, Biocharacteristic, Action, etc.

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AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON OUTWARD

Outward-moving substances stimulate circulation, push heat towards the skin, or are stimulating.

INGREDIENTS WITH OUTWARD QUALITY

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

Neutral (Tridoshic)
Saffron
Reduces
Alcohol
Garlic
Pineapple
Red Wine
Reduces
Lime
Reduces
Ajwain
Apple Cider Vinegar
Basil
Bay Leaf
Black Pepper
Caraway Seeds
Cardamom
Cayenne Pepper
Cloves
Dill
Garlic (raw)
Lemon
Mustard
Mustard Powder
Mustard Seed
Nigella (black cumin)
Red Wine Vinegar
Rosemary
Scallions (Raw)
Tarragon
Wasabi
White Vinegar
Reduces
Chamomile
Coriander Seed
Mint
Reduces
Beet Greens
Brussels sprouts
Buckwheat
Celery Root
Celery Seed
Celery Stalk
Coffee
Daikon Radish
Horseradish
Radish (raw)
Red Onion (raw)
Spanish Black Radish

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

Diaphoretic
DIAPHORETIC
An herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.
SEE ALL 'DIAPHORETIC' FOODS / HERBS

Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Brussels sprouts , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Cloves , Coriander Seed , Dill , Garlic , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , White Vinegar

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

Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Beet Greens , Black Pepper , Brussels sprouts , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Coffee , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

Digestive
DIGESTIVE
Herbs that encourage healthy digestion.
SEE ALL 'DIGESTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Rosemary , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Basil , Beet Greens , Buckwheat , Cardamom , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi

Spleen Tonic
SPLEEN-TONIC
An herb that strengthens spleen function by improving strength of the blood. Spleen tonics Builds agni, brighten the person's appearances & firms up tissues.
SEE ALL 'SPLEEN-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon

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

Apple Cider Vinegar , Beet Greens , Black Pepper , Brussels sprouts , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Pineapple , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), White Vinegar

Blood Mover
BLOOD-MOVER
Blood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).
SEE ALL 'BLOOD-MOVER' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Stalk , Cloves , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Red Onion (raw), Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon , Wasabi

Dispel Cold Tonify Yang
DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG
Herbs that revitalizing by warming and stimulating, typically stimulating arterial circulation.
SEE ALL 'DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Cloves , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Rosemary , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon , Wasabi

Upward
UPWARD
Upward-moving substances (Urdvha Gati Marga) include anything stimulating or activating, or that move upward in the body.
SEE ALL 'UPWARD' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Caraway Seeds , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Coffee , Dill , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Pineapple , Scallions (Raw), Wasabi

Cardiac Stimulant
CARDIAC-STIMULANT
Herbs that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area.
SEE ALL 'CARDIAC-STIMULANT' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Seed , Cloves , Daikon Radish , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Rosemary , Spanish Black Radish , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Brussels sprouts , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Celery Root , Coffee , Daikon Radish , Dill , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Rosemary , Saffron

Nervine
NERVINE
Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.
SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Basil , Cardamom , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Dill , Mint , Nigella (black cumin), Rosemary , Saffron

Wakes You Up
WAKES-YOU-UP
Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy.
SEE ALL 'WAKES-YOU-UP' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Coffee , Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Pineapple , Scallions (Raw), Wasabi

Refreshing
REFRESHING
Stimulates and wakes up the body, leaving it feeling cool, fresh, and energized.
SEE ALL 'REFRESHING' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Daikon Radish , Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Pineapple , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Black Pepper , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Caraway Seeds , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Coffee , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Coffee , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Caraway Seeds , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Cloves , Garlic , Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Ajwain , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Black Pepper , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Coriander Seed , Dill , Horseradish , Lemon , Lime , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Red Wine Vinegar , Saffron , Wasabi , White Vinegar

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

Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Cardamom , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Mint , Nigella (black cumin), Saffron , Tarragon

Toxic
TOXIC
A substance that causes toxicity in the body, or that harms the body.
SEE ALL 'TOXIC' FOODS / HERBS

Alcohol , Coffee , Red Wine

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

Brussels sprouts , Radish (raw), Spanish Black Radish

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

Garlic

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

Lime

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

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Buckwheat , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Pineapple , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Caraway Seeds , Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Dill , Garlic , Horseradish , Lemon , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Rosemary , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi

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

Ajwain , Basil , Bay Leaf , Caraway Seeds , Cardamom , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Cloves , Coffee , Coriander Seed , Dill , Garlic (raw), Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Rosemary , Saffron , Scallions (Raw), Tarragon

Acrid
ACRID
Harsh and unpleasant with a biting quality. Frequently hot & bitter. Examples include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

Ajwain , Cloves , Coffee , Daikon Radish , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Wasabi

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

Apple Cider Vinegar , Bay Leaf , Beet Greens , Buckwheat , Cloves , Lemon , Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , Rosemary , Saffron , White Vinegar

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

Alcohol , Apple Cider Vinegar , Lemon , Lime , Pineapple , Red Wine , Red Wine Vinegar , White Vinegar

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

Buckwheat , Celery Root , Pineapple , Red Onion (raw), Red Wine , Scallions (Raw)

Bland Negative Calorie
BLAND-NEGATIVE-CALORIE
The term "bland taste" refers, in Chinese medicine, to food containing few macronutrients, such as cabbage, radish or bok choy. These may be compared to negative calorie foods.
SEE ALL 'BLAND-NEGATIVE-CALORIE' FOODS / HERBS

Celery Root , Celery Stalk , Daikon Radish , Radish (raw), Spanish Black Radish

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

Celery Stalk , Pineapple , Scallions (Raw)

Resinous
RESINOUS
Resinous substances often contain sap in them, such as rosemary, or herbs such as cedar, frankincense, and guggulu.
SEE ALL 'RESINOUS' FOODS / HERBS

Rosemary

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

Garlic (raw)

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

Beet Greens , Buckwheat , Caraway Seeds , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Pineapple

Cleanse And Detox

Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Celery Root , Daikon Radish , Dill , Scallions (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

Lemon , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Saffron

Weight Loss

Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Buckwheat , Celery Root , Coffee

Liver Gallbladder

Apple Cider Vinegar , Red Wine Vinegar , White Vinegar

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

Buckwheat

Spring

Ajwain , Apple Cider Vinegar , Basil , Beet Greens , Brussels sprouts , Cardamom , Cayenne Pepper , Celery Root , Celery Seed , Celery Stalk , Chamomile , Coriander Seed , Daikon Radish , Dill , Garlic (raw), Horseradish , Mint , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Red Wine Vinegar , Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish , Tarragon , Wasabi , White Vinegar

Autumn Winter

Alcohol , Bay Leaf , Black Pepper , Buckwheat , Cloves , Coffee , Garlic , Lemon , Mustard , Mustard Powder , Mustard Seed , Nigella (black cumin), Red Wine , Rosemary

Summer

Cardamom , Lime , Mint , Pineapple , Saffron

Browse Outward Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH OUTWARD QUALITY

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

Reduces
Pippali
Pushkaramoola
Sniff raw onions, chopped
Reduces
Kutaja Bark
Reduces
Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama)
Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama)
Echinacea
External Breath (Bahya Pranayama)
Garcinia Cambogia Fruit
Guarana
Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi)
Kapha Shirodhara Oil
Shilajit Tonic
Incomplete
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Goldenrod

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Goldenrod , Guarana , Kapha Shirodhara Oil , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

Upward
UPWARD
Upward-moving substances (Urdvha Gati Marga) include anything stimulating or activating, or that move upward in the body.
SEE ALL 'UPWARD' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Pushkaramoola , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Shilajit Tonic

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Guarana , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Shilajit Tonic

Blood Mover
BLOOD-MOVER
Blood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).
SEE ALL 'BLOOD-MOVER' FOODS / HERBS

Digestive
DIGESTIVE
Herbs that encourage healthy digestion.
SEE ALL 'DIGESTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Pippali , Pushkaramoola

Refreshing
REFRESHING
Stimulates and wakes up the body, leaving it feeling cool, fresh, and energized.
SEE ALL 'REFRESHING' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Eucalyptus Essential Oil , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

Nervine
NERVINE
Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.
SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Eucalyptus Essential Oil , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Guarana , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil

Wakes You Up
WAKES-YOU-UP
Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy.
SEE ALL 'WAKES-YOU-UP' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Eucalyptus Essential Oil , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Guarana , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Guarana , Kutaja Bark

Dispel Cold Tonify Yang
DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG
Herbs that revitalizing by warming and stimulating, typically stimulating arterial circulation.
SEE ALL 'DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG' FOODS / HERBS

Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Shilajit Tonic

Cardiac Stimulant
CARDIAC-STIMULANT
Herbs that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area.
SEE ALL 'CARDIAC-STIMULANT' FOODS / HERBS

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Shilajit Tonic

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

Echinacea , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic

Diaphoretic
DIAPHORETIC
An herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.
SEE ALL 'DIAPHORETIC' FOODS / HERBS

Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil , Pushkaramoola , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Pippali , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Eucalyptus Essential Oil , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Pippali , Pushkaramoola

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

Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil , Pippali , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Guarana , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Shilajit Tonic

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

Echinacea , Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Kutaja Bark

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

Kapha Shirodhara Oil

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

Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil , Pippali , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Echinacea , Goldenrod , Guarana , Kapha Shirodhara Oil , Kutaja Bark , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic

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

Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil

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

Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark

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

Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil

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

Echinacea , Shilajit Tonic

Acrid
ACRID
Harsh and unpleasant with a biting quality. Frequently hot & bitter. Examples include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

Echinacea , Shilajit Tonic

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

Garcinia Cambogia Fruit

Respiratory Health

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Echinacea , Eucalyptus Essential Oil , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Pushkaramoola , Shilajit Tonic , Sniff raw onions, chopped

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Pippali , Shilajit Tonic

Digestion

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), External Breath (Bahya Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kutaja Bark , Pushkaramoola

Weight Loss

Garcinia Cambogia Fruit , Guarana , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic

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

Bellows Breath (Bhastrika Pranayama), Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic

Immune System

Echinacea , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic

Kidney Bladder Urinary

Goldenrod , Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic

Cleanse And Detox

Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama), Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Shilajit Tonic

Mind Stress Sleep

Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi), Kapha Shirodhara Oil

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

Kapha Shirodhara Oil

Bowel Poop Elimination

Breath of Fire / Shining Skull (Kapalbhati Pranayama)

HELPFUL FOR*

'Outward' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.

Mind Stress Sleep
Difficulty waking up
Excessive sleep
Sleep deep & long, trouble waking up
Sleep during the day
Tired in morning

TYPE: DIRECTION

Outward Recipes Listed By Strength

Browse By Popularity

Roast Lamb & Vegetables with Mint Pistachio Cream Sauce
Pineapple & Daikon Salsa with Rosemary, Green Chili, & Raw Onion
Grapefruit, Quinoa & Fennel Salad with Mint
Grilled Eggplant Steaks in Mint Pistachio Cream Sauce
Roasted Cauliflower & Red Pepper Chickpea Soup
Vegan Cauliflower Hot Wings
Mulled Spiced Wine
Homemade Fire Cider
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower with Red Pepper Flake
Daikon, Carrot & Garlic Sweet Pickle
Liver Cleanse Salad with Artichoke, Garlic, Radish, & Red Wine Vinegar
Pickled Jicama with Ginger & Lime
Orange Zest Vinaigrette
Pickled Beets with Garlic, Ginger & Lemon Zest
Sweet Potato & Chipotle Quesadillas
Sweet Potatoes with Beet Greens & Goat Cheese
Thyme, Lemon & Horseradish Zinger with Turmeric
Cashew Cream Sauce with Shiitake, Tarragon & Thyme
Cilantro & Pepita Pesto
Sweet Potato Fries & Red Pepper Hummus
Scalloped Parsnip & Rosemary
Spicy Pineapple Slaw
Black Bean Chocolate Smoothie
Turmeric Shot with Apple, Ginger & Cayenne
Daikon Fries with Mint
Summer Squash Arugula Salad
Sweet Potato, Purple Cabbage & Radish Taco
Raw Vegetable Ribbon Taco with Yogurt Cilantro Sauce
Sweet Potato, Daikon, & Goji Berry Miso Soup
Moroccan Chicken Soup with Almonds & Raisins
Buckwheat Bran Muffin with Applesauce & Walnuts
Pumpkin Seed Anti-Parasite Recipe
Gluten Free Pizza Crust Made from Zucchini, Cheese, and Egg
Virgin Hot Toddy
Cranberry Wasabi Daikon Slaw
Parsnip Fries with Chipotle Mayo
Omelette with Kale, Beets & Goat Cheese
Apple Cider with Spices
Metabolism Boosting Green Tea with Basil & Ginger
Happy Mind Mint Tea with Stevia
No Bake Paleo Pumpkin Ginger Cookies
Rye Berry Bowl with Kale & Cranberries
Fennel, Cabbage, Coconut Chicken Curry Soup
Rosemary Fig Jam

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly & Magnolia Hill College, offers professional clinical training in personalized diet, lifestyle and herbs through Classical Metabolic Theory (Ayurveda & Greek Medicine). His approach is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful.

John's hobbies & specialties include advanced digestive disorders, classical Christian philosophy for mental wellness, languages (French, Arabic, Bengali), cooking & botany. He holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. John, his wife Natalie, and their 8 kids live in Asheville, NC.

Learn More

Nutrition & Herbs from Ayurveda & Greek Medicine

Outward - Foods & Herbs ListCLASSIFICATION OF FOOD, HERBS, & LIFESTYLE

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Table of Contents

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON OUTWARD

INGREDIENTS WITH OUTWARD QUALITY

Neutral (Tridoshic)

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

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

FIRE

Diaphoretic DIAPHORETIC An herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin. SEE ALL 'DIAPHORETIC' FOODS / HERBS

DIAPHORETIC

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

INTERNAL-DETOXICANT

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

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

Digestive DIGESTIVE Herbs that encourage healthy digestion. SEE ALL 'DIGESTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

DIGESTIVE

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

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

Spleen Tonic SPLEEN-TONIC An herb that strengthens spleen function by improving strength of the blood. Spleen tonics Builds agni, brighten the person's appearances & firms up tissues. SEE ALL 'SPLEEN-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

SPLEEN-TONIC

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

AIR

Blood Mover BLOOD-MOVER Blood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters). SEE ALL 'BLOOD-MOVER' FOODS / HERBS

BLOOD-MOVER

Dispel Cold Tonify Yang DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG Herbs that revitalizing by warming and stimulating, typically stimulating arterial circulation. SEE ALL 'DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG' FOODS / HERBS

DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG

Upward UPWARD Upward-moving substances (Urdvha Gati Marga) include anything stimulating or activating, or that move upward in the body. SEE ALL 'UPWARD' FOODS / HERBS

UPWARD

Cardiac Stimulant CARDIAC-STIMULANT Herbs that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area. SEE ALL 'CARDIAC-STIMULANT' FOODS / HERBS

CARDIAC-STIMULANT

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

STIMULATES-ENERGY

Nervine NERVINE Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature. SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

NERVINE

Wakes You Up WAKES-YOU-UP Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy. SEE ALL 'WAKES-YOU-UP' FOODS / HERBS

WAKES-YOU-UP

Refreshing REFRESHING Stimulates and wakes up the body, leaving it feeling cool, fresh, and energized. SEE ALL 'REFRESHING' FOODS / HERBS

REFRESHING

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

CLEAR

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

HOT

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

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

MOBILE

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

EASY

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

LIGHT

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

DRY

Toxic TOXIC A substance that causes toxicity in the body, or that harms the body. SEE ALL 'TOXIC' FOODS / HERBS

TOXIC

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

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

COLD

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

PUNGENT

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

BITTER

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

AROMATIC

Acrid ACRID Harsh and unpleasant with a biting quality. Frequently hot & bitter. Examples include radish, turnip, and coffee. SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

ACRID

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

ASTRINGENT

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

Diaphoretic
DIAPHORETIC
An herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.
SEE ALL 'DIAPHORETIC' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

Digestive
DIGESTIVE
Herbs that encourage healthy digestion.
SEE ALL 'DIGESTIVE' 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

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

Spleen Tonic
SPLEEN-TONIC
An herb that strengthens spleen function by improving strength of the blood. Spleen tonics Builds agni, brighten the person's appearances & firms up tissues.
SEE ALL 'SPLEEN-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

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

Blood Mover
BLOOD-MOVER
Blood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).
SEE ALL 'BLOOD-MOVER' FOODS / HERBS

Dispel Cold Tonify Yang
DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG
Herbs that revitalizing by warming and stimulating, typically stimulating arterial circulation.
SEE ALL 'DISPEL-COLD-TONIFY-YANG' FOODS / HERBS

Upward
UPWARD
Upward-moving substances (Urdvha Gati Marga) include anything stimulating or activating, or that move upward in the body.
SEE ALL 'UPWARD' FOODS / HERBS

Cardiac Stimulant
CARDIAC-STIMULANT
Herbs that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area.
SEE ALL 'CARDIAC-STIMULANT' FOODS / HERBS

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

Nervine
NERVINE
Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.
SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

Wakes You Up
WAKES-YOU-UP
Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy.
SEE ALL 'WAKES-YOU-UP' FOODS / HERBS

Refreshing
REFRESHING
Stimulates and wakes up the body, leaving it feeling cool, fresh, and energized.
SEE ALL 'REFRESHING' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toxic
TOXIC
A substance that causes toxicity in the body, or that harms the body.
SEE ALL 'TOXIC' 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

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

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

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

Acrid
ACRID
Harsh and unpleasant with a biting quality. Frequently hot & bitter. Examples include radish, turnip, and coffee.
SEE ALL 'ACRID' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

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

Bland Negative Calorie
BLAND-NEGATIVE-CALORIE
The term "bland taste" refers, in Chinese medicine, to food containing few macronutrients, such as cabbage, radish or bok choy. These may be compared to negative calorie foods.
SEE ALL 'BLAND-NEGATIVE-CALORIE' FOODS / HERBS

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

Resinous
RESINOUS
Resinous substances often contain sap in them, such as rosemary, or herbs such as cedar, frankincense, and guggulu.
SEE ALL 'RESINOUS' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

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

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

Upward
UPWARD
Upward-moving substances (Urdvha Gati Marga) include anything stimulating or activating, or that move upward in the body.
SEE ALL 'UPWARD' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

Blood Mover
BLOOD-MOVER
Blood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).
SEE ALL 'BLOOD-MOVER' FOODS / HERBS