9 Ayurvedic Super Foods

In the discussion of wealth, health is an essential topic of conversation. If one of your intentions in the new year is to eat more mindfully, a good place to start is with Ayurvedic super foods. For those who are unfamiliar, Ayurveda is one of the oldest forms of holistic medicine. This wellness system teaches individuals how to keep their mind, body and spirit in balance using diet, exercise and other lifestyle elements.

In Ayruvedic Medicine, there are three doshas, or energies (vata, pita, or kapha) that circulate through the body and govern psychological activities. For ultimate health, discover your dosha, then you can experiment with the prescribed foods, sleep habits and more to be as balanced as possible. While some foods will have a stronger effect on you than others depending on your dosha, these 9 Ayurvedic foods have positive impacts on all. 

1. Ginger root is energizing, anti-inflammatory, and great for promoting circulation and easing nausea. Try boiling some fresh ginger into your next cup of tea.

2. Tumeric is a strong antioxidant that digests proteins, improves skin conditions and detoxifies the liver. 

3. Ashwagandha root is alternatively known as Indian Ginseng. Take it as a supplement to fight stress, anxiety and fatigue. 

4. Brahmi is a native indian herb that sustains brain and nervous system functions.

5. Tulsi leaf is popular throughout Southeast Asia. With regular consumption, this plant purifies blood, reduces blood sugar and builds immunity. The juice of the tulsi leaf can be used to treat acne as well.

6. Ghee is a clarified butter that's high in omega-3 fatty acids. Put a spoonful on rice or vegetables to lower cholesterol, improves heart health, maintain healthy eye sight and skin, and increase daily energy.

7. Amlaki, or Indian Gooseberry, is a digestive tonic that cleanses the colon and removes excess heat from the body. Amlaki is high in vitamin C and calcium, and is known as the "divine fruit" for its anti-aging properties.

8. Pears are a powerful fruit for balancing each of the 3 doshas. Eat a pear to increase energy, balance hormones, and to be emotionally uplifted. 

9. Mango is the king of all Ayurvedic fruits. Depending on the ripeness of the mango, it can balance certain doshas more effectively. In general, a ripe mango is a tonic that builds nutritional fluid in the body.