Vegetarian Diet - Sattvic Diet

The Importance of A Vegetarian Diet

According to yoga philosophy it is important to follow a vegetarian diet, otherwise known as a Sattvic diet. Sattva means purity and leads to spiritual realization. Specific foods as well as herbs are high in Sattvic qualities. These foods include milk, wheat, rice, legumes and fruits. Sattvic herbs include Brahmi, Shatavari, Ashwaganda, Turmeric, Tulsi(basil), Ginger and Saffron.

Brahmi

Brahmi, also known as bacoba, can be taken internally with milk or applied to the head in the form of brahmi oil. Brahmi improved the mind, nervous system and memory.

Shatavari

Shatvari(asparagus rasmosa) is a female tonic, which improves fertility and eases menstruation as well as menopause. This relaxing herb, aids pregnancy as well as lactation. Shatavari also improves the immune system.

Ashwaghanda

Ashwaghanda means and bestows the virility of a horse. Ashwaghanda is male tonic and adaptogen, which helps to relieve stress. Ashwaghanda helps to improve muscle tone, strength, fertility, concentration, focus and memory. Ashwaghanda is also good for the heart.

Turmeric

Turmeric or cumcumin is a wonderful sattvic herb for the joints. It reduces inflammation, purifies the skin and nourishes the blood. It is the main herb in golden milk, a yogic drink and healing tonic, which purifies the mind and improves flexibility.

Tulsi

Tulsi or holy basil. Tulsi purifies the respiratory system and improves cognitive function as well as the immune system. A tulsi plant is traditionally planted at the entrance of a house. The tulsi plant brings peace and happiness to the residence of the house. Tulsi can clear negative energy in the air.

Ginger

Ginger helps to improve digestion and clears toxins from the body. Ginger reduces pain, improves the immune system and purifies the blood.

Saffron

Saffron is an antioxidant, an aphrodisiac and is wonderful for the skin. Saffron(kumkuma) is the main ingredient in Kumkumadi Thaila, or saffron oil. Kumkumadi thaila is the Ayurveda beauty oil for the face. It improves complexion, reduces signs of aging and purifies and nourishes the sense organs.

Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet

There are many potential health benefits to following a vegetarian diet. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Vegetarian diets have been associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

2. Weight management: Vegetarian diets can be lower in calories and higher in fiber than diets that include meat, which may help with weight management.

3. Nutrient-dense: Vegetarian diets can be rich in nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote good health.

4. Improved digestion: Plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help promote healthy digestion and bowel regularity.

5. Lower risk of foodborne illness: Eating vegetarian can reduce the risk of exposure to harmful bacteria or parasites that can be found in meat.

6. Sustainability: Vegetarian diets can be more sustainable than diets that include meat, as they use fewer natural resources to produce and have a smaller carbon footprint.

7. Compassionate: Eating a vegetarian diet supports animal welfare by reducing demand for meat products and reducing the number of animals raised for food.

Remember, it is important to maintain an overall healthy and balanced diet, and to ensure you are getting all necessary nutrients through a variety of plant-based sources when following a vegetarian diet.