Archive for the ‘Herbs’ Category

Summer is the time when the fire element naturally rises. The sun is out (she is hot) and there is little rain to cool her down. In Ayurvedic Medicine fire is referred to as Pitta. Too much pitta in the body and mind can cause all sorts of havoc – like burning indigestion, acid reflux, inflammation, anger, jealousy…and so many more. So we need to do everything we can to cool our bodies and minds down – unless you want to deal with the above.

Spices are key to regulating your digestive fire (agni), absorbing your food properly and forming healthy tissue. I.e. spices are key to a healthy YOU! While all spices are ‘pungent’ i.e. composed of the elements fire and air, some spices are more pungent, or hot, than others. Cayenne pepper for example is on the very hot side, while Fennel is on the mildly warming side. Both increase the digestive fire. Cayenne peeper causes a blazing fire while Fennel just mildly fans the fire.

Fennel is a good choice for the summer time.  The heat of the sun already feeds our internal fire; no need to feed it externally thru food. If you eat too spicy of food in the summer your Pitta will get way out of balance…and that will show up in, well, not so nice ways…. such as intensity, anger, frustration and jealousy… those hot emotions you wished you didn’t’ have.

Fennel seeds are great for keeping Pitta (fire element) in check. They promote proper digestion and strengthen Agni without aggravating Pitta. They stops cramping and dispels flatulence.

Here are three ways to enjoy Fennel seeds:

• Use them in your cooking
• Dry roast Fennel seeds and mix with a small amount of rock salt. Eat after meals.
• Make a digestive tea; mix 1-2 tsp of fennel seeds with 8 oz of hot water. Let sit for a few minutes. Drink.