We all know a healthy digestive system is linked to our overall health. In fact, ancient Ayurvedic texts emphasize Agni (digestive fire) as the life source. Whatever you eat can either strengthen or weaken your agni, making your digestion good or bad. So let’s talk about the 6 simple Ayurvedic doctor-recommended Indian drinks for gut health and better digestion.
1. Buttermilk/Chaas
Buttermilk, also known as ‘chaas’ in many Indian houses, is a light and cooling probiotic-rich drink that restores good gut bacteria, improves your body’s Agni, and reduces bloating. In Ayurveda, it is also known for pacifying Pitta dosha, making it ideal for those prone to gut health issues.
How to make it: Add ½ cup of curd with ¾ cup of water and whisk until smooth. Then add roasted cumin powder, a pinch of salt, and coriander leaves. Drink it after lunch for the best results and better gut health.
2. Warm Jeera (Cumin) Water
Jeera water is one of the simplest yet most powerful Ayurvedic drink remedies for gut health. Cumin seeds contain compounds that kickstart digestive enzymes, improve nutrient absorption, and reduce bloating. Cumin seed in water, also known as Jeera water, helps balance excessive gas, reduce acidity, and support natural bowel movements.
How to make it: Boil 1 tsp. of cumin seeds in a glass of water for 5-10 minutes. Strain it and drink it warm. Prefer to have it in the morning or after a heavy meal.
3. Herbal Fennel (Sauf) Tea
Fennel seeds, commonly known as ‘sauf’, are often chewed after meals in indian households and for good reasons. They refresh your breath and also help in digestion. Making a tea out of it and drinking it offers relief from gas, indigestion, or cramps, easing the digestive process and reducing discomfort.
How to make it: Similar to cumin water, just crush 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds in water and boil it for 5 minutes. Strain it and sip it warm.
4. Triphala-Infused Water
Triphala is an ancient ayurvedic blend of three fruits – Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. It’s considered one of the best ayurvedic drinks for gut health, detoxification, and regular bowel movement.
How to make it: Soak 1 teaspoon of triphala powder in a glass of warm water overnight. Drink it the next day in the morning on an empty stomach.
5. Carom Seeds (Ajwain) Water
Ajwain is a common Indian spice popularly known for its ability to relieve gas, acidity, and indigestion. In Ayurveda, it’s especially suggested for irregular eating or weak digestion. Ajwain also contains thymol, a compound that enhances digestive enzyme activity and provides quick relief from bloating or heaviness.
How to make it: Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain to water and boil it for 5 minutes, strain, and sip it warm. You can also add a little bit of salt to enhance the relief.
6. Coconut Water
Coconut water hydrates the body tissues, calms inflammation of the intestine, and soothes gastric irritation. Ayurveda considers coconut as a natural Pitta pacifier, meaning it helps cool the body from acidity and ulcers.
If you had a spicy meal that left you feeling heavy, a glass of fresh coconut water can provide you with instant relief. Just remember to avoid packed or refrigerated versions and always consume fresh tender coconut water at room temperature.
All And All
Remember that your gut health is connected to your overall well-being. Ayurveda teaches us to drink these simple and easy home-based drinks that can go a long way in improving our digestion and help prevent long-term health issues. Instead of going for sodas or packaged drinks, try these 6 ayurvedic drinks for gut health and walk towards a healthier you.
Recommended Reads
8 Best Superfoods For Liver Detox
How Gut Health Affects Your Brain: The Science Behind the Gut-Brain Connection
FAQs
Q. How to improve your digestion and gut health according to Ayurveda?
Eat freshly cooked meals with added spices like cumin and fennel, avoid overeating, and try Ayurvedic drinks like triphala-infused water, cumin water, and buttermilk for improved gut health.
Q. What is the best drink for good gut health?
Buttermilk, coconut water, amla juice, or triphala-infused water. All of these drinks help reduce acidity, indigestion, and bloating.
Q. What should I drink every day for good gut health?
While not one drink can help, having drinks like buttermilk when have daily can be beneficial for gut health. Buttermilk is one of the easiest drinks to add to your daily diet and will help improve digestion.
Q. Is hot water good for digestion in Ayurveda?
Yes, sipping warm water aids digestion, reduces toxins, and keeps the gut active.
(The article is reviewed by Dr.Subita Alagh, Assistant Team Lead, Disease Content.)