AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON DIAPHORETIC

An herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.

A diaphoretic is an herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin. Diaphoretics typically work by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Thus, many are antispasmodic as well. Most aromatic herb are diaphoretic, as volatile oils are smooth muscle relaxants. Most warming herbs have some diaphoretic action as well, because increasing heat increases sweat.

• Cool Aromatic diaphoretics - Peppermint, Pennyroyal, Eucalyptus
• Hot Aromatic diaphoretics - Cloves, Tulsi,
• Hot diaphoretics - Yarrow, Sassafras
• Pungent Diaphoretics - Cayenne
• Acrid diaphoretics (Pungent bitter) - Juniper, Angelica

Lifestyle Practices that are Diaphoretic

• Hot bath with 1/3c ginger 1/3c baking soda mix.
• Sauna / blankets

Indications

• Expelling superficial colds and flues.
• Stimulating deficient fevers (hot diaphoretics).
• Reducing excessive fevers (cool diaphoretics).
• Reduce swelling and edema.
• Removing blood stagnation.
• Ameliorating skin imbalances resulting from poor circulation.
• Relieving sore muscles, aches, pains, & tension.

Contraindications

Many diaphoretics are ultimately cooling as they open the exterior and cause heat loss. Avoid when vulnerable to cold (as in autumn).

INGREDIENTS WITH DIAPHORETIC QUALITY

Browse Diaphoretic Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH DIAPHORETIC QUALITY

OTHER HERB ACTIONS AFFECTING SKIN-CARE

HELPFUL FOR*

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

CONTRAINDICATIONS / AGGRAVATES / IS AGGRAVATED BY*

'Diaphoretic' may aggravate, or be aggravated by, these symptoms and causes below.

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University.

John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language.

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