Summer Foods & Herbs List: An Ayurveda Perspective

INGREDIENTS FOR SUMMER

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

Aggravates
Apricot (dried)
Neutral (Tridoshic)
Cilantro
Dulse
Green Beans
Okra
Quinoa
Saffron
Strawberries
Reduces
Egg Whites
Goji Berry
Green Papaya
Jaggery
Kiwi
Orange
Papaya
Peaches
Pineapple
Plum
Rhubarb
Tamarind
Reduces
Acai
Avocado
Banana
Basmati Rice
Blueberry
Brown Rice Syrup
Cantaloupe / Melons
Chicken
Coconut Milk
Coconut Water
Coconut Yogurt
Date Sugar
Figs
Fish
Grape
Honey Dew
Jackfruit
Lime
Mulberry
Oat Flour
Poha
Pomegranate Molasses
Purslane
Raisins
Raw Sugar
Rice Flour
Rice Milk
Risotto / Arborio Rice
Salmon
Skim Milk Powder
Sorghum Flour
Soy Milk
Summer Squash
Sunflower Oil
Sweet Peas
Turbinado
Zucchini
Aggravates
Red Bell Pepper
Tomato
Reduces
Apricot (fresh)
Cardamom
Cherry
Fennel Stalk
Sassafras Leaf
Reduces
Blackberry
Cucumber
Guava
Lavender
Orange Blossom Water
Turkey
Reduces
Adzuki Beans
Aloe Vera Juice / Gel
Amaranth
Artichoke
Artichoke Hearts
Asparagus
Bean Sprouts
Black Beans
Black-eyed Peas
Brown Lentil
Butter Bean
Chickpea (Garbanzo)
Cranberry
Cranberry Juice
Fava Beans
Grape Leaves
Green Mango
Green Plantain
Hibiscus
June Berry
Kidney Beans
Lima Beans
Mint
Mung Bean
Oat Bran
Pears
Pinto Beans
Pomegranate
Red Lentils (Masoor Dal)
Rose Petals
Rose Water
Soy Beans
Split Peas
Urad Dal
Watermelon
White Navy Bean
Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)
Reduces
Grapefruit
Lamb's Quarters
Lime Zest
Millet
Popped Amaranth
Raspberry
Incomplete
Durian

Nutritive
NUTRITIVE
An herb that is strengthening and nourishing.
SEE ALL 'NUTRITIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Acai , Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Blackberry , Blueberry , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Butter Bean , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Chicken , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cucumber , Date Sugar , Dulse , Egg Whites , Fava Beans , Figs , Fish , Goji Berry , Grape , Green Beans , Green Plantain , Guava , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Jaggery , Kidney Beans , Kiwi , Lamb's Quarters , Lima Beans , Millet , Mung Bean , Oat Bran , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pineapple , Pinto Beans , Plum , Poha , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Rice Milk , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Saffron , Salmon , Skim Milk Powder , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Sunflower Oil , Sweet Peas , Turbinado , Turkey , Urad Dal , Watermelon , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal), Zucchini

Ojas
OJAS
Ojas is the essence of healthy tissue, immunity, stable energy and happiness. Substances that improve ojas are recommended after long-term illness, debility, emotional and physical trauma, and even sadness.
SEE ALL 'OJAS' FOODS / HERBS

Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Blueberry , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Butter Bean , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Chicken , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cucumber , Date Sugar , Egg Whites , Fava Beans , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Fish , Grape , Green Beans , Green Plantain , Guava , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Jaggery , Kidney Beans , Kiwi , Lamb's Quarters , Lima Beans , Millet , Mung Bean , Oat Bran , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pineapple , Pinto Beans , Plum , Poha , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Rice Milk , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Saffron , Salmon , Skim Milk Powder , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Summer Squash , Sunflower Oil , Sweet Peas , Turbinado , Turkey , Urad Dal , Watermelon , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal), Zucchini

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

Adzuki Beans , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Asparagus , Banana , Basmati Rice , Bean Sprouts , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cardamom , Cherry , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Date Sugar , Egg Whites , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Fish , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Plantain , Guava , Honey Dew , Jaggery , Kiwi , Lavender , Lima Beans , Lime , Lime Zest , Millet , Mint , Mung Bean , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Orange Blossom Water , Papaya , Peaches , Pears , Pomegranate , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Rice Milk , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Saffron , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Strawberries , Summer Squash , Sweet Peas , Turbinado , Watermelon , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal), Zucchini

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

Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Avocado , Banana , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Butter Bean , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Chicken , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Yogurt , Date Sugar , Egg Whites , Fava Beans , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Goji Berry , Green Beans , Green Plantain , Guava , Hibiscus , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Jaggery , Kidney Beans , Kiwi , Lima Beans , Millet , Mulberry , Oat Bran , Oat Flour , Okra , Pinto Beans , Poha , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Popped Amaranth , Purslane , Quinoa , Raisins , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rhubarb , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Skim Milk Powder , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Sunflower Oil , Sweet Peas , Turkey , Urad Dal , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

Water
WATER
Resembles water in quality - fluid, sticky, soft, heavy, stable, cool.
SEE ALL 'WATER' FOODS / HERBS

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Avocado , Banana , Blackberry , Blueberry , Brown Rice Syrup , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Coconut Yogurt , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Date Sugar , Figs , Fish , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Mango , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Kiwi , Lime , Mulberry , Orange , Orange Blossom Water , Papaya , Peaches , Pineapple , Plum , Pomegranate , Raspberry , Red Bell Pepper , Rice Milk , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Salmon , Soy Milk , Strawberries , Summer Squash , Sunflower Oil , Tomato , Watermelon , Zucchini

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

Adzuki Beans , Apricot (fresh), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Avocado , Banana , Bean Sprouts , Blackberry , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cardamom , Cherry , Cilantro , Coconut Milk , Cucumber , Figs , Grape , Grapefruit , Kiwi , Lime , Lime Zest , Mint , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pears , Pineapple , Pomegranate Molasses , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Red Bell Pepper , Saffron , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Strawberries , Sweet Peas , Tomato , Watermelon

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

Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Basmati Rice , Bean Sprouts , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cardamom , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Dulse , Fennel Stalk , Goji Berry , Grape Leaves , Green Beans , Green Mango , Guava , Hibiscus , Lamb's Quarters , Lavender , Lima Beans , Lime Zest , Mint , Mung Bean , Oat Bran , Oat Flour , Okra , Pears , Pineapple , Pomegranate , Popped Amaranth , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rhubarb , Rice Flour , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Saffron , Sorghum Flour , Tamarind

Fruits

Acai , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Banana , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Durian, Figs , Goji Berry , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Mango , Green Papaya , Green Plantain , Guava , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , June Berry, Kiwi , Lime , Mulberry , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pears , Pineapple , Plum , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Raspberry , Strawberries , Tamarind , Watermelon

Satisfies Stomach
SATISFIES-STOMACH
Provides a sense of gratification and fullness in the stomach.
SEE ALL 'SATISFIES-STOMACH' FOODS / HERBS

Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Chicken , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Milk , Fava Beans , Green Plantain , Jackfruit , Kidney Beans , Lamb's Quarters , Lima Beans , Millet , Mung Bean , Oat Bran , Oat Flour , Pinto Beans , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Risotto / Arborio Rice , Salmon , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Sweet Peas , Turkey , Urad Dal , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

Green

Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Avocado , Bean Sprouts , Cardamom , Cilantro , Cucumber , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Grape Leaves , Green Beans , Green Mango , Guava , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Kiwi , Lamb's Quarters , Lima Beans , Lime , Lime Zest , Mint , Mung Bean , Okra , Pears , Purslane , Rhubarb , Sassafras Leaf , Split Peas , Summer Squash , Sweet Peas , Watermelon , Zucchini

High Fiber Laxative
HIGH-FIBER-LAXATIVE
A class of laxative that adds bulk and water to stools. The large size of the stool stimulates peristalsis so the stool can pass more easily through the colon. It is important to drink plenty of water when using high fiber laxatives, as they can be dehydr
SEE ALL 'HIGH-FIBER-LAXATIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Acai , Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Fava Beans , Figs , Grape , Green Beans , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Kidney Beans , Lima Beans , Mung Bean , Peaches , Pears , Pinto Beans , Popped Amaranth , Raisins , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Sweet Peas , Tomato , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

General Laxative
GENERAL-LAXATIVE
Promotes a bowel movement. General laxative is an umbrella term that refers to several different types of laxatives.
SEE ALL 'GENERAL-LAXATIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Acai , Adzuki Beans , Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Apricot (dried), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Black Beans , Butter Bean , Cherry , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Fava Beans , Figs , Grape , Kidney Beans , Lima Beans , Lime , Mung Bean , Peaches , Pears , Pineapple , Pinto Beans , Pomegranate Molasses , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rhubarb , Rose Petals , Split Peas , Strawberries , Sweet Peas , Tamarind , Tomato , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

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

Acai , Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Cilantro , Coconut Milk , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Grape , Green Plantain , Hibiscus , Jackfruit , Papaya , Pears , Pineapple , Pomegranate , Quinoa , Red Bell Pepper , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Sorghum Flour , Strawberries , Sweet Peas

Refrigerant
REFRIGERANT
An herb or substance that strongly cools the body. Can be helpful in cases of heat conditions.
SEE ALL 'REFRIGERANT' FOODS / HERBS

Acai , Bean Sprouts , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cilantro , Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cranberry , Cucumber , Hibiscus , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Lime , Pears , Pomegranate , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Watermelon

Nerve Relaxant Grounding
NERVE-RELAXANT-GROUNDING
Encourages feelings of stability and heaviness. Makes you feel settled, mentally relaxed. Mildly sedates the nervous system to ease stress. Can bring a spacey or anxious person back to earth. Reduces agitation, irritation, stress and racing thoughts.
SEE ALL 'NERVE-RELAXANT-GROUNDING' FOODS / HERBS

Acai , Amaranth , Avocado , Banana , Coconut Milk , Green Plantain , Jackfruit , Lima Beans , Millet , Popped Amaranth , Rose Petals , Salmon , Sorghum Flour

Tonic
TONIC
A tonic herb restores function through strengthening tissue. This can happen through a combination of nourishing the tissue, and invigorating tissue metabolism. The tonic should not be withering, as in caffeine.
SEE ALL 'TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Figs , Goji Berry , Grape , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Jaggery , Lamb's Quarters , Quinoa , Raisins , Sunflower Oil

Aphrodisiac
APHRODISIAC
Herbs that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health.
SEE ALL 'APHRODISIAC' FOODS / HERBS

Grape , Jackfruit , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Saffron , Tomato , Watermelon

Relieves Burning
RELIEVES-BURNING
Herbs that soothe a burn or reduce an internal burning sensation, such as aloe vera.
SEE ALL 'RELIEVES-BURNING' FOODS / HERBS

Cantaloupe / Melons , Hibiscus , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Pears , Rose Water , Summer Squash

Antimicrobial
ANTIMICROBIAL
An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.
SEE ALL 'ANTIMICROBIAL' FOODS / HERBS

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Rose Petals

Uterine Tonic
UTERINE-TONIC
An herb that tonifies and strengthens the uterus. Helpful for menstrual difficulties and fertility. Often herbs that increase ojas, but also circulation to reproductive system.
SEE ALL 'UTERINE-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Grape , Rose Petals , Soy Milk

Calms Heart
CALMS-HEART
An herb that literally calms the heart. These herbs are helpful in the treatment of anxiety, sadness, depression, or other emotional imbalances in the heart. Related to the Chinese Herbal Category 'calms spirit.'
SEE ALL 'CALMS-HEART' FOODS / HERBS

Green Plantain , Pears , Salmon

Estrogenic
ESTROGENIC
Increases estrogen, helpful in menopause. Estrogen is anabolic and increases muscle growth, bone density, and moisture.
SEE ALL 'ESTROGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Rose Petals , Soy Beans

Progesteronic
PROGESTERONIC
Progeserone is the pregnancy hormone. It raises body temperature (Pitta), and suppresses menstruation. It is generally more extroverted.
SEE ALL 'PROGESTERONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Rose Petals

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

Acai , Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Avocado , Basmati Rice , Bean Sprouts , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Blackberry , Blueberry , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Butter Bean , Cantaloupe / Melons , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Date Sugar , Fava Beans , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Grape , Grape Leaves , Green Beans , Green Plantain , Guava , Hibiscus , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , June Berry, Kidney Beans , Kiwi , Lavender , Lima Beans , Lime , Mulberry , Mung Bean , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Pears , Pinto Beans , Poha , Pomegranate , Purslane , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Rice Milk , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Split Peas , Strawberries , Summer Squash , Sunflower Oil , Sweet Peas , Turbinado , Urad Dal , Watermelon , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal), Zucchini

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

Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Bean Sprouts , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Cardamom , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Fava Beans , Fennel Stalk , Grape Leaves , Green Plantain , Guava , Kidney Beans , Lavender , Lima Beans , Millet , Mint , Mung Bean , Pears , Pinto Beans , Plum , Poha , Popped Amaranth , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Saffron , Sassafras Leaf , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Watermelon , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

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

Adzuki Beans , Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Brown Rice Syrup , Butter Bean , Chicken , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Milk , Date Sugar , Egg Whites , Fava Beans , Fish , Green Plantain , Kidney Beans , Lima Beans , Oat Flour , Papaya , Pinto Beans , Raisins , Raw Sugar , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Skim Milk Powder , Soy Beans , Soy Milk , Split Peas , Sweet Peas , Tamarind , Turkey , Urad Dal , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

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

Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Cilantro , Coconut Water , Egg Whites , Fish , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Beans , Honey Dew , Kiwi , Lime , Millet , Mint , Mulberry , Mung Bean , Okra , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pineapple , Poha , Pomegranate , Quinoa , Raspberry , Sorghum Flour , Strawberries , Summer Squash , Sweet Peas , Watermelon , Zucchini

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Amaranth , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Bean Sprouts , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cardamom , Cilantro , Fennel Stalk , Grape Leaves , Lime , Millet , Mint , Mung Bean , Okra , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Red Bell Pepper , Saffron , Sassafras Leaf , Sorghum Flour , Strawberries , Watermelon

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Avocado , Bean Sprouts , Cardamom , Cherry , Cilantro , Cucumber , Fennel Stalk , Grapefruit , Hibiscus , Lime , Mint , Orange , Plum , Rhubarb , Rose Petals , Saffron , Sassafras Leaf , Summer Squash , Tamarind , Watermelon , Zucchini

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

Adzuki Beans , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Coconut Milk , Fava Beans , Jackfruit , Kidney Beans , Lima Beans , Oat Bran , Pears , Pinto Beans , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rice Flour , Skim Milk Powder , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Tomato , Turkey , Urad Dal , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Cardamom , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Grapefruit , Lime , Mint , Mung Bean , Orange , Peaches , Rhubarb , Saffron , Tamarind , Watermelon

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

Avocado , Banana , Brown Rice Syrup , Chicken , Egg Whites , Fish , Jackfruit , Jaggery , Oat Flour , Okra , Raw Sugar , Salmon , Skim Milk Powder , Sorghum Flour , Turbinado

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Bean Sprouts , Cardamom , Goji Berry , Grapefruit , Lamb's Quarters , Lime Zest , Mint , Orange , Pineapple , Raw Sugar , Saffron

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

Apricot (fresh), Cherry , Dulse , Jaggery , Millet , Papaya , Peaches , Pineapple , Red Bell Pepper , Tamarind

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

Avocado , Chicken , Coconut Milk , Fish , Jackfruit , Salmon , Sunflower Oil , Turkey , Urad Dal

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

Acai , Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Asparagus , Avocado , Banana , Basmati Rice , Blackberry , Blueberry , Brown Rice Syrup , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Chicken , Coconut Milk , Coconut Water , Cranberry , Date Sugar , Fennel Stalk , Figs , Fish , Goji Berry , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Mango , Green Plantain , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , Jaggery , June Berry, Kiwi , Millet , Mulberry , Oat Flour , Okra , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pears , Pineapple , Plum , Poha , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Raisins , Raspberry , Raw Sugar , Red Bell Pepper , Rhubarb , Rice Flour , Rice Milk , Risotto / Arborio Rice , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Salmon , Sassafras Leaf , Skim Milk Powder , Sorghum Flour , Soy Milk , Strawberries , Summer Squash , Sweet Peas , Tamarind , Tomato , Turbinado , Turkey , Watermelon

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

Acai , Adzuki Beans , Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Amaranth , Apricot (fresh), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Bean Sprouts , Black Beans , Black-eyed Peas , Blackberry , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Fava Beans , Grape Leaves , Green Beans , Green Mango , Green Plantain , Hibiscus , Jackfruit , Kidney Beans , Lamb's Quarters , Lavender , Lima Beans , Millet , Mulberry , Mung Bean , Okra , Pears , Pinto Beans , Pomegranate , Popped Amaranth , Raspberry , Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), Rhubarb , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Saffron , Sassafras Leaf , Sorghum Flour , Soy Beans , Split Peas , Strawberries , Tamarind , Urad Dal , White Navy Bean , Yellow Lentil (Toor Dal)

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

Acai , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cherry , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Grape , Grape Leaves , Grapefruit , Green Mango , Hibiscus , Honey Dew , Jaggery , June Berry, Lime , Mulberry , Orange , Peaches , Pineapple , Plum , Pomegranate , Pomegranate Molasses , Raisins , Raspberry , Rhubarb , Sassafras Leaf , Strawberries , Tamarind , Tomato

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Bean Sprouts , Cilantro , Cucumber , Dulse , Fennel Stalk , Grapefruit , Jaggery , Lamb's Quarters , Lime Zest , Plum , Red Bell Pepper , Rhubarb , Sorghum Flour

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

Cardamom , Cilantro , Fennel Stalk , Mint , Orange , Pineapple , Purslane , Red Bell Pepper , Saffron , Tomato

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

Cardamom , Fennel Stalk , Lavender , Lime Zest , Mint , Saffron , Sassafras Leaf

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Asparagus , Fennel Stalk , Summer Squash , Zucchini

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

Asparagus , Bean Sprouts , Pineapple

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

Dulse , Lamb's Quarters , Purslane

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

Acai , Amaranth , Banana , Cilantro , Grapefruit , Jackfruit , Pineapple , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Salmon

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

Aloe Vera Juice / Gel , Avocado , Banana , Cucumber , Hibiscus , Rose Petals , Rose Water , Saffron , Sorghum Flour , Strawberries

Liver Gallbladder

Acai , Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Avocado , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cilantro , Grapefruit , Rose Petals , Strawberries

Kidney Bladder Urinary

Asparagus , Cilantro , Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Quinoa , Sorghum Flour , Watermelon

Muscle Health

Amaranth , Banana , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Turkey

Mind Stress Sleep

Chickpea (Garbanzo), Rose Petals , Salmon , Turkey

Respiratory Health

Avocado , Cardamom

Reproductive Health

Papaya , Rose Petals

Womens Health

Hibiscus , Papaya

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

Summer Squash

Snack Dessert

Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Asparagus , Banana , Blackberry , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cherry , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Cranberry , Cranberry Juice , Cucumber , Durian, Figs , Goji Berry , Grape , Grapefruit , Green Mango , Green Papaya , Guava , Honey Dew , Jackfruit , June Berry, Kiwi , Lime , Mulberry , Orange , Papaya , Peaches , Pears , Pineapple , Plum , Pomegranate , Raisins , Raspberry , Strawberries , Tamarind , Watermelon

Breakfast

Acai , Amaranth , Apricot (dried), Apricot (fresh), Banana , Blueberry , Cantaloupe / Melons , Cranberry , Durian, Goji Berry , Grapefruit , Green Papaya , Green Plantain , June Berry, Plum , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Watermelon

Drink

Acai , Coconut Water , Cranberry Juice , Jackfruit , Pineapple , Pomegranate , Rice Milk , Soy Milk

Lunch Dinner

Amaranth , Asparagus , Chickpea (Garbanzo), Green Plantain , Jackfruit , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , Sweet Peas

Hors Doeuvres

Asparagus , Cranberry , Cucumber , Goji Berry , Grape , Green Plantain

Spring

Adzuki Beans , Amaranth , Apricot (fresh), Artichoke , Artichoke Hearts , Avocado , Bean Sprouts , Black Beans , Brown Lentil , Butter Bean , Cardamom , Cherry , Fava Beans , Grapefruit , Green Plantain , Kidney Beans , Mint , Pinto Beans , Popped Amaranth , Quinoa , White Navy Bean

Autumn Winter

Apricot (dried), Avocado , Coconut Milk , Cranberry , Goji Berry , Raisins , Soy Milk , Split Peas

Browse Summer Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS FOR SUMMER

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

Neutral (Tridoshic)
Shankhapushpi
Reduces
Black Cohosh
Passionflower
Shatavari
Shatavari Ghee
Reduces
Chandanadi Taila
Reduces
Black Walnut
Rose Hips
Witch Hazel

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

Black Cohosh , Chandanadi Taila , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee , Witch Hazel

Uterine Tonic
UTERINE-TONIC
An herb that tonifies and strengthens the uterus. Helpful for menstrual difficulties and fertility. Often herbs that increase ojas, but also circulation to reproductive system.
SEE ALL 'UTERINE-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee , Witch Hazel

Refrigerant
REFRIGERANT
An herb or substance that strongly cools the body. Can be helpful in cases of heat conditions.
SEE ALL 'REFRIGERANT' FOODS / HERBS

Chandanadi Taila , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee , Witch Hazel

Nerve Relaxant Grounding
NERVE-RELAXANT-GROUNDING
Encourages feelings of stability and heaviness. Makes you feel settled, mentally relaxed. Mildly sedates the nervous system to ease stress. Can bring a spacey or anxious person back to earth. Reduces agitation, irritation, stress and racing thoughts.
SEE ALL 'NERVE-RELAXANT-GROUNDING' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Passionflower , Rose Hips, Shankhapushpi , Shatavari

Tonic
TONIC
A tonic herb restores function through strengthening tissue. This can happen through a combination of nourishing the tissue, and invigorating tissue metabolism. The tonic should not be withering, as in caffeine.
SEE ALL 'TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Shankhapushpi , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Progesteronic
PROGESTERONIC
Progeserone is the pregnancy hormone. It raises body temperature (Pitta), and suppresses menstruation. It is generally more extroverted.
SEE ALL 'PROGESTERONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Antimicrobial
ANTIMICROBIAL
An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.
SEE ALL 'ANTIMICROBIAL' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Estrogenic
ESTROGENIC
Increases estrogen, helpful in menopause. Estrogen is anabolic and increases muscle growth, bone density, and moisture.
SEE ALL 'ESTROGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Water
WATER
Resembles water in quality - fluid, sticky, soft, heavy, stable, cool.
SEE ALL 'WATER' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Passionflower , Shankhapushpi , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Calms Heart
CALMS-HEART
An herb that literally calms the heart. These herbs are helpful in the treatment of anxiety, sadness, depression, or other emotional imbalances in the heart. Related to the Chinese Herbal Category 'calms spirit.'
SEE ALL 'CALMS-HEART' FOODS / HERBS

Chandanadi Taila , Passionflower , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Relieves Burning
RELIEVES-BURNING
Herbs that soothe a burn or reduce an internal burning sensation, such as aloe vera.
SEE ALL 'RELIEVES-BURNING' FOODS / HERBS

Chandanadi Taila , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee , Witch Hazel

Aphrodisiac
APHRODISIAC
Herbs that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health.
SEE ALL 'APHRODISIAC' FOODS / HERBS

Rose Hips, Shankhapushpi , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Black Walnut , Rose Hips, Shankhapushpi , Witch Hazel

Ojas
OJAS
Ojas is the essence of healthy tissue, immunity, stable energy and happiness. Substances that improve ojas are recommended after long-term illness, debility, emotional and physical trauma, and even sadness.
SEE ALL 'OJAS' FOODS / HERBS

Black Cohosh , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Passionflower , Rose Hips, Shankhapushpi

Nutritive
NUTRITIVE
An herb that is strengthening and nourishing.
SEE ALL 'NUTRITIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Green

Shankhapushpi

General Laxative
GENERAL-LAXATIVE
Promotes a bowel movement. General laxative is an umbrella term that refers to several different types of laxatives.
SEE ALL 'GENERAL-LAXATIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Rose Hips

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

Black Walnut , Chandanadi Taila , Passionflower , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee , Witch Hazel

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

Black Cohosh , Passionflower , Shankhapushpi , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Shankhapushpi , Shatavari

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

Shankhapushpi , Shatavari Ghee

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

Black Walnut , Witch Hazel

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

Passionflower , Witch Hazel

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

Black Walnut

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

Passionflower

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

Rose Hips

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

Black Cohosh , Passionflower , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Black Cohosh , Black Walnut , Passionflower , Shankhapushpi , Shatavari

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

Chandanadi Taila , Passionflower , Rose Hips, Witch Hazel

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

Black Cohosh , Passionflower , Witch Hazel

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

Black Cohosh

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

Witch Hazel

Reproductive Health

Black Cohosh , Rose Hips, Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Mind Stress Sleep

Chandanadi Taila , Passionflower , Rose Hips, Shankhapushpi

Womens Health

Black Cohosh , Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

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

Chandanadi Taila , Rose Hips, Witch Hazel

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

Shatavari , Shatavari Ghee

Digestion

Black Walnut , Shatavari

Cleanse And Detox

Black Walnut

Liver Gallbladder

Rose Hips

Heart Circulation Blood

Rose Hips

Carolina College of Natural Health Sciences

AYURVEDA PHARMACOLOGY OF FOOD & HERBS

Summer - Foods & Herbs List

Share Content with Friends & Clients

Table of Contents

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON SUMMER

Early Summer - Mid-May to Mid-July

Late Summer - Mid-July to Mid September

INGREDIENTS FOR SUMMER

Aggravates

Neutral (Tridoshic)

Reduces

Reduces

Aggravates

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Reduces

Incomplete

Nutritive NUTRITIVE An herb that is strengthening and nourishing. SEE ALL 'NUTRITIVE' FOODS / HERBS

NUTRITIVE

Ojas OJAS Ojas is the essence of healthy tissue, immunity, stable energy and happiness. Substances that improve ojas are recommended after long-term illness, debility, emotional and physical trauma, and even sadness. SEE ALL 'OJAS' FOODS / HERBS

OJAS

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

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

EARTH

Water WATER Resembles water in quality - fluid, sticky, soft, heavy, stable, cool. SEE ALL 'WATER' FOODS / HERBS

WATER

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

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

AIR

Satisfies Stomach SATISFIES-STOMACH Provides a sense of gratification and fullness in the stomach. SEE ALL 'SATISFIES-STOMACH' FOODS / HERBS

SATISFIES-STOMACH

HIGH-FIBER-LAXATIVE

General Laxative GENERAL-LAXATIVE Promotes a bowel movement. General laxative is an umbrella term that refers to several different types of laxatives. SEE ALL 'GENERAL-LAXATIVE' FOODS / HERBS

GENERAL-LAXATIVE

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

Refrigerant REFRIGERANT An herb or substance that strongly cools the body. Can be helpful in cases of heat conditions. SEE ALL 'REFRIGERANT' FOODS / HERBS

REFRIGERANT

NERVE-RELAXANT-GROUNDING

Tonic TONIC A tonic herb restores function through strengthening tissue. This can happen through a combination of nourishing the tissue, and invigorating tissue metabolism. The tonic should not be withering, as in caffeine. SEE ALL 'TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

TONIC

Aphrodisiac APHRODISIAC Herbs that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health. SEE ALL 'APHRODISIAC' FOODS / HERBS

APHRODISIAC

Relieves Burning RELIEVES-BURNING Herbs that soothe a burn or reduce an internal burning sensation, such as aloe vera. SEE ALL 'RELIEVES-BURNING' FOODS / HERBS

RELIEVES-BURNING

Antimicrobial ANTIMICROBIAL An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals. SEE ALL 'ANTIMICROBIAL' FOODS / HERBS

ANTIMICROBIAL

Uterine Tonic UTERINE-TONIC An herb that tonifies and strengthens the uterus. Helpful for menstrual difficulties and fertility. Often herbs that increase ojas, but also circulation to reproductive system. SEE ALL 'UTERINE-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

UTERINE-TONIC

Calms Heart CALMS-HEART An herb that literally calms the heart. These herbs are helpful in the treatment of anxiety, sadness, depression, or other emotional imbalances in the heart. Related to the Chinese Herbal Category 'calms spirit.' SEE ALL 'CALMS-HEART' FOODS / HERBS

CALMS-HEART

Estrogenic ESTROGENIC Increases estrogen, helpful in menopause. Estrogen is anabolic and increases muscle growth, bone density, and moisture. SEE ALL 'ESTROGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

ESTROGENIC

Progesteronic PROGESTERONIC Progeserone is the pregnancy hormone. It raises body temperature (Pitta), and suppresses menstruation. It is generally more extroverted. SEE ALL 'PROGESTERONIC' FOODS / HERBS

PROGESTERONIC

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

COLD

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

DRY

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

HEAVY

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

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

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

DIFFICULT

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

CLEAR

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

GOOEY

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

MOBILE

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

Nutritive
NUTRITIVE
An herb that is strengthening and nourishing.
SEE ALL 'NUTRITIVE' FOODS / HERBS

Ojas
OJAS
Ojas is the essence of healthy tissue, immunity, stable energy and happiness. Substances that improve ojas are recommended after long-term illness, debility, emotional and physical trauma, and even sadness.
SEE ALL 'OJAS' 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

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

Water
WATER
Resembles water in quality - fluid, sticky, soft, heavy, stable, cool.
SEE ALL 'WATER' 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

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

Satisfies Stomach
SATISFIES-STOMACH
Provides a sense of gratification and fullness in the stomach.
SEE ALL 'SATISFIES-STOMACH' FOODS / HERBS

General Laxative
GENERAL-LAXATIVE
Promotes a bowel movement. General laxative is an umbrella term that refers to several different types of laxatives.
SEE ALL 'GENERAL-LAXATIVE' 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

Refrigerant
REFRIGERANT
An herb or substance that strongly cools the body. Can be helpful in cases of heat conditions.
SEE ALL 'REFRIGERANT' FOODS / HERBS

Tonic
TONIC
A tonic herb restores function through strengthening tissue. This can happen through a combination of nourishing the tissue, and invigorating tissue metabolism. The tonic should not be withering, as in caffeine.
SEE ALL 'TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Aphrodisiac
APHRODISIAC
Herbs that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health.
SEE ALL 'APHRODISIAC' FOODS / HERBS

Relieves Burning
RELIEVES-BURNING
Herbs that soothe a burn or reduce an internal burning sensation, such as aloe vera.
SEE ALL 'RELIEVES-BURNING' FOODS / HERBS

Antimicrobial
ANTIMICROBIAL
An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.
SEE ALL 'ANTIMICROBIAL' FOODS / HERBS

Uterine Tonic
UTERINE-TONIC
An herb that tonifies and strengthens the uterus. Helpful for menstrual difficulties and fertility. Often herbs that increase ojas, but also circulation to reproductive system.
SEE ALL 'UTERINE-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Calms Heart
CALMS-HEART
An herb that literally calms the heart. These herbs are helpful in the treatment of anxiety, sadness, depression, or other emotional imbalances in the heart. Related to the Chinese Herbal Category 'calms spirit.'
SEE ALL 'CALMS-HEART' FOODS / HERBS

Estrogenic
ESTROGENIC
Increases estrogen, helpful in menopause. Estrogen is anabolic and increases muscle growth, bone density, and moisture.
SEE ALL 'ESTROGENIC' FOODS / HERBS

Progesteronic
PROGESTERONIC
Progeserone is the pregnancy hormone. It raises body temperature (Pitta), and suppresses menstruation. It is generally more extroverted.
SEE ALL 'PROGESTERONIC' FOODS / HERBS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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