Desi Cow Curd Benefits: A Guide to Ayurvedic Wisdom

 Desi Cow Curd Benefits: A Guide to Ayurvedic Wisdom

Curd, also known as yogurt or dahi, is a fermented dairy product that is widely consumed in India and other parts of the world. Curd is made by adding a starter culture of bacteria to milk and letting it ferment for several hours. Curd has many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and providing probiotics.

However, not all curd is created equal. According to ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine and wellness from India, the quality and properties of curd depend on the source and type of milk used to make it. Among the different kinds of milk, ayurveda considers desi cow milk to be the best and most suitable for human consumption.

Desi cow milk is obtained from indigenous breeds of cows native to India, such as Gir, Sahiwal, Red Sindhi, and Kankrej. These cows are raised in natural and organic conditions, without the use of hormones, antibiotics, or artificial insemination. Desi cow milk is rich in nutrients, such as protein, calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Desi cow milk also contains a special protein called A2 beta-casein, which is easier to digest and does not cause lactose intolerance or inflammation.

Desi cow curd is the curd made from desi cow milk. It has many benefits for health and well-being, as per the ayurvedic books. Here are some of the main benefits of desi cow curd:

Balances the Doshas

According to ayurveda, there are three doshas or energies that govern the body and mind: vata (air and space), pitta (fire and water), and kapha (earth and water). Each person has a unique constitution or prakriti that determines their physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. The balance of the doshas in the body affects the health and well-being of a person.

Desi cow curd is considered to be tridoshic, meaning it can balance all three doshas in moderation. It is especially beneficial for vata and pitta doshas, as it nourishes and cools them. Desi cow curd can also pacify kapha dosha when consumed with spices such as black pepper, ginger, or mustard seeds.

Improves Digestion

Desi cow curd is a natural probiotic that contains beneficial bacteria that help maintain the health and balance of the gut flora. These bacteria aid in digestion, absorption, and elimination of food. They also prevent the growth of harmful pathogens that can cause infections or diseases.

Desi cow curd also stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and juices that help break down food and assimilate nutrients. It also soothes the stomach lining and reduces acidity, ulcers, gastritis, and indigestion.

Boosts Immunity

Desi cow curd strengthens the immune system by enhancing the production and activity of white blood cells that fight against infections and diseases. It also modulates the inflammatory response and reduces inflammation in the body.

Desi cow curd also contains immunoglobulins that act as antibodies against foreign invaders. It also contains lactoferrin, a protein that binds to iron and prevents it from being used by harmful bacteria. Desi cow curd also helps in detoxification by removing toxins and waste products from the body.

Promotes Skin Health

Desi cow curd is a natural beauty enhancer that improves the health and appearance of the skin. It moisturizes and nourishes the skin with its vitamins, minerals, and fats. It also exfoliates and cleanses the skin with its lactic acid and enzymes. It also reduces acne, blemishes, pigmentation, and wrinkles by balancing the pH and oil levels of the skin.

Desi cow curd can be applied topically as a mask or a cleanser to improve the skin quality and glow. It can also be mixed with other natural ingredients such as honey, turmeric, lemon, or oatmeal to enhance its effects.

Supports Bone Health

Desi cow curd is a rich source of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D that are essential for bone health and density. It helps prevent osteoporosis, fractures, and arthritis by strengthening the bones and joints. It also regulates the hormonal balance and prevents bone loss due to menopause or aging.

Desi cow curd also contains vitamin K2, a vitamin that helps in the absorption and utilization of calcium in the bones. It also prevents calcium from depositing in the arteries and causing cardiovascular problems.

Enhances Mood and Mental Health

Desi cow curd positively impacts mood and mental health by influencing the neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate emotions, cognition, and behavior. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia by boosting the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin in the brain. It also improves memory, learning, and concentration by enhancing the function of the neurons and synapses.

Desi cow curd also contains tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor of serotonin and melatonin. It also contains tyrosine, another amino acid that is a precursor of dopamine and norepinephrine. These amino acids help in the production of mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain.

References

• Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles. Albuquerque: The Ayurvedic Press, 2002.
• Sharma, Hari. Ayurvedic Healing: Contemporary Maharishi Ayurveda Medicine and Science. Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt Ltd., 2011.
• Tiwari, Maya. Ayurveda: A Life of Balance. Rochester: Healing Arts Press, 1995.
• Joshi, Shubhra Krishan. Essential Ayurveda: What It Is and What It Can Do for You. Novato: New World Library, 2005.
• Ladha-Sabur, Anjali. The Ayurveda Cookbook: The Science of Life in Your Kitchen. London: Lorenz Books, 2019.

Bilwa: The Miracle Fruit of Ayurveda - A Story of Healing

Introduction:

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years in India. One of the key principles of Ayurveda is the use of natural remedies to treat illnesses and promote wellness. One such remedy is the Bilwa fruit, which has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. In this article, we'll explore the story of Bilwa's healing properties as mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts.

Story:

According to Ayurvedic texts, there was once a king who suffered from a chronic digestive disorder that left him weak and debilitated. Despite trying various treatments, the king's condition continued to worsen, and he lost all hope of recovery.

One day, a wise Ayurvedic physician visited the king and offered him a fruit called Bilwa, which he claimed could cure the king's condition. The physician explained that Bilwa had been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to treat digestive disorders and improve overall health.

The king, desperate for a cure, decided to try the Bilwa fruit. To his surprise, after just a few days of eating Bilwa, he began to feel better. His digestion improved, and he regained his strength and vitality. The king was amazed by the healing properties of Bilwa and became a firm believer in Ayurvedic medicine.

Benefits of Bilwa:

Bilwa, also known as Bael or Wood Apple, is a fruit that is native to India and Southeast Asia. In Ayurveda, Bilwa is considered a powerful remedy for a range of health issues, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.

Bilwa is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and potassium. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Bilwa is commonly used to treat diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, and other digestive issues. Bilwa is also used to boost immunity, improve respiratory health, and promote healthy skin.

Conclusion:

The story of Bilwa's healing properties is just one example of the power of Ayurvedic medicine to heal and promote wellness. While modern medicine has made many advancements in treating illnesses, Ayurveda offers a natural and holistic approach that can complement conventional treatments.

Bilwa is just one of the many natural remedies used in Ayurveda, and its healing properties have been recognized for thousands of years. By incorporating Bilwa and other Ayurvedic remedies into your wellness routine, you can promote optimal health and well-being.