Autumn represents transition – when we let go of fire and get prepared for the cold winds of winter. According to Ayurveda, the beginning of autumn is the perfect time for a gentle cleanse of the system. As we have accumulated plenty of heat in our tissues by this time, it is important to calm and restore the body in order to prepare it for winter wellness. More than detoxification, this is the time for nourishment and rejuvenation, as it represents a gradual retreat of nature from its season of full bloom towards a season of semi-hibernation. This state of nature is described in Ayurveda as the predominance of the air element and vata dosha.

Autumn is the season of movement, and there is a greater chance of imbalance in all kinds of transportation in the body: too slow or too fast movement inside the digestive tract can cause irregular bowel movements, poor circulation can lead to muscle cramps or numbness, excessive movement can cause sleeplessness and anxiety, and suboptimal neural coordination can cause symptoms like palpitations, involuntary twitches, foggy mind, or dull senses. In addition to all this, dry and rough air can make it hard for tissues to maintain optimal moisture, leading to internal dryness that can manifest as dry skin, frizzy and unmanageable hair, dehydration, frequent constipation, or heavy joints.

Ayurvedic herbs for autumn wellness 

Ayurveda offers a range of potent herbs – all superfoods on their own – which help in the holistic management of various imbalances encountered in this season, while also providing nourishment from within. Here’s our favourites:

1. Triphala

One of the most versatile of Ayurvedic herbs, Organic Triphala Booster provides all-around autumn care for the skin, body, and mind. It grounds the movement of air with its warm, nourishing qualities and moisturises internal organs to facilitate their smooth functioning. Historically used for its immune-boosting and digestive benefits, Triphala strengthens the digestive flame and helps in the complete digestion of food. This greatly helps in building Ojas – the finest essence of kapha – which is the ultimate energy reserve of mind and body, responsible for immunity, strength and vitality.

Autumn can be particularly damaging for skin and hair, especially for vata dosha types. Triphala nourishes the skin from within and protects from dry skin and frizzy hair. Being rich in vitamin C and polyphenolic compounds, it naturally rejuvenates the protective skin barrier by building structural proteins like collagen and elastin.

2. Ashwagandha

Organic Ashwagandha Booster is another powerful rejuvenator herb that is well-equipped to support overall wellness in the vata season. Its antiviral, antibacterial properties boost the immune response against common seasonal allergies and infections. A well-known ayurvedic adaptogen, Ashwagandha naturally reduces cortisol levels and supports Ojas – thus further promoting immunity and vitality.

Ashwagandha is immensely pacifying for the mind and the nervous system. Studies have shown that taking Ashwagandha on a regular basis can enhance memory and concentration, improve learning, and support neural coordination.

Ashwagandha is also incredibly nourishing for dry skin and hair. It supports full-body detoxification and promotes cell renewal. Try Ashwagandha in our Vayu Age-Defying Concentrate that has been specially prepared to hydrate and protect the skin in the dry, rough weather of autumn and winter months.

3. Brahmi 

Brahmi has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory properties that support the immune function in guarding the body against common infections and allergies of the autumn season. Being a herb of bitter rasa (taste), it promotes blood detoxification and improves circulation. Removing impurities from the blood also helps in preventing skin problems and promotes youthful skin by bringing in more nutrients to skin cells. Also a natural hair conditioner, Brahmi stimulates hair growth, strengthens the roots, and prevents premature greying and thinning. Though generally regarded as tridoshic and used year-round, Brahmi is particularly suited for pacifying seasonal vata imbalances.

While Brahmi is well-known to support overall physical and mental health, its nootropic (brain-boosting) benefits are what make it truly one of a kind. Our favourite ayurvedic herb for mental wellness, Brahmi has been historically used to promote mental clarity, enhance learning and cognition, boost concentration, and improve memory.

Try Brahmi in our Brain & Beauty Plant Alchemy and Grow Strong Hair Range.

4. Turmeric 

Though not technically a herb, Turmeric is packed with a unique set of abilities that support and rejuvenate the body at a cellular level, making it a perfect supplement in the autumn and winter months. Curcumin, the main bioactive compound of Turmeric, is among one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory food sources on the planet. Over ten thousand studies and hundreds of clinical trials have reported its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is proven to boost blood circulation, improve digestion, strengthen bones and muscles, improve cell proliferation, and lubricate joints for their smooth functioning.

According to Ayurveda, regular intake of Turmeric reduces ama (toxin) generation in the body and assists the liver in blood purification. Curcumin and aromatic turmerone compounds present in this ‘golden spice’ are well-known to support the nervous system and help with Vata imbalances like mental fog or poor concentration.

Try Turmeric in our glow-getting weekly Radiance Mask and Grow Strong Hair Oil.