L10 Ayurveda Herbs - Salty

Question 1

What is the salty taste called in Ayurvedic terminology?

Answer 1

Lavana

Question 2

Which two elements are associated with the salty taste?

Answer 2

Fire and water

Question 3

What are the qualities of the salty taste?

Answer 3

Hot, moist, heavy

Question 4

List the effects of the salty taste.

Answer 4

• Stimulates Agni (therefore nourishment)
• Increases saliva
• Mild laxative
• Maintains blood pressure
• Liquifies mucus
• Softens tumours
• Increases enthusiasm for life

Question 5

Name two herbs associated with the salty taste.

Answer 5

• Garlic
• Nettle
• Kelp
• Celery seed

Question 6

Which seaweed is used as an expectorant?

Answer 6

Irish moss

Question 7

Which seaweed is known for thyroid support?

Answer 7

Kelp

Question 8

What qualities do salty herbs have that affect Vata?

Answer 8

Moist, warm, nourishing qualities

These qualities help to balance Vata problems.

Question 9

What problems do salty herbs counteract?

Answer 9

• Cold, weak digestion
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Stiffness

These issues are commonly associated with Vata imbalances.

Question 10

How do salty herbs help balance Vata?

Answer 10

• Reducing weakness and debility
• Settling and grounding anxious nerves
• Encouraging mental stability

This is often referred to as the ‘salt of the earth’ effect.

Question 11

What specific benefits do celery seeds provide?

Answer 11

• Warm digestion
• Relieve bloating
• Reduce joint stiffness
• Reduce arthritic pain (via kidney support = clear acid wastes)

Celery seeds are particularly effective for Vata-related issues.

Question 12

What qualities do salty herbs have that increase Pitta and Kapha?

Answer 12

Hot, moist, heavy, stimulating qualities.

These qualities can lead to various health issues associated with Pitta and Kapha.

Question 13

What Pitta problems can arise from the consumption of salty herbs?

Answer 13

• Thirst
• High blood pressure
• Burning sensations
• Red, itchy skin disease (damp heat)

These issues are linked to the hot and stimulating nature of salty herbs.

Question 14

What Kapha problems can occur due to excessive consumption of salty herbs?

Answer 14

• Mucus
• Congestion
• Weight gain
• Fluid retention

These issues are a result of the moist, heavy, and building qualities of salty herbs.

Question 15

How can small amounts of salty herbs benefit Kapha?

Answer 15

By liquifying mucus to help clear channels.

This is based on the principle of ‘like treats like’.