L10 Ayurveda Herbs - Astringent

Question 1

What is the astringent taste called?

Answer 1

Kasaya

Question 2

Which elements are associated with the astringent taste?

Answer 2

Earth and Air

Question 3

List the qualities of the astringent taste

Answer 3

• Very dry
• Cool
• Heavy
• Rough

Question 4

What is the effect of the astringent taste?

Answer 4

Reducing, drying, depleting effect

Question 5

What are the therapeutic effects of the astringent taste?

Answer 5

• Contracts tissues
• Heals skin and mucous membranes
• Stops bleeding
• Reduces discharges (diarrhoea, urine, menses, catarrh, weeping skin lesions)
• Helps raise prolapsed organs

Question 6

Name three herbs associated with the astringent taste.

Answer 6

• Haritaki
• Guggul
• Witch hazel

Question 7

What is the effect of astringency on Pitta?

Answer 7

Cools, dries and reduces Pitta heat, dampness, inflammation and discharges.

Astringency is considered beneficial for managing Pitta imbalances.

Question 8

How does astringency affect Kapha?

Answer 8

Dries out Kapha dampness, but should be used in small amounts only.

Excessive use of astringent substances can be too cold and heavy for Kapha.

Question 9

What role does astringency play in acute first aid treatments?

Answer 9

Important ‘first choice’ taste for herbs for acute first aid treatments, such as wounds, cuts, bites, and stings.

Astringent herbs are often recommended for their healing properties in first aid.

Question 10

What is the effect of astringency on Vata?

Answer 10

Dry, cold, rough effect.

Question 11

What are the consequences of excess astringency on tissues?

Answer 11

Depletes and contracts tissues, causes constipation, cramps, muscle tension, wasting, thirst, nervous disorders.

Question 12

How does astringency affect the colon?

Answer 12

Weakens the colon.

Question 13

What can astringency obstruct in the body?

Answer 13

The flow of Prana / Vital Force.

Question 14

What mental states can result from obstructed Prana due to astringency?

Answer 14

Closed mind, ‘holding on’ to things, ‘meanness’ and ‘resentment.’

Question 15

Is green tea a good antioxidant?

Answer 15

Yes, but it can be highly astringent when taken too strong.

Question 16

Fill in the blank: Astringency can cause ________ in the digestive system.

Answer 16

constipation

Question 17

True or False: Excess astringency can lead to muscle tension.

Answer 17

True

Question 18

What are some effects of excess astringency on the body? List three.

Answer 18

• Constipation
• Cramps
• Muscle tension