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Cardiologist reveals 5 ancient Indian herbs to boost health naturally: ‘…turns out to be the ultimate nutritional bomb’

Natural supplements often work just as well as synthetic ones, minus the side effects. Dr Alok Chopra has shared 5 timeless Indian herbs that improve health.

Published on: Sep 21, 2025 7:04 PM IST
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In an age where wellness aisles are overflowing with synthetic supplements and quick-fix capsules, many forget that India’s own ancient traditions offer time-tested solutions for health and vitality. Rooted in Ayurveda and everyday practices, certain herbs have been celebrated for centuries for their ability to heal, energise, and restore balance - without the side effects of artificial alternatives.

Some herbs act as natural supplements to boost immunity and improve health. (Unsplash)
Some herbs act as natural supplements to boost immunity and improve health. (Unsplash)

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Dr Alok Chopra, a cardiologist and the founder-director and consultant cardiologist at Delhi’s Aashlok Hospital, has shared five ancient Indian herbs packed with health benefits that can improve your overall health and wellbeing. In an Instagram video posted on September 21, Dr Chopra shared the health benefits of each herb, ranging from calming anxiety and stress to boosting immunity and improving sleep.

Tulsi - Holy basil

According to Dr Chopra, Tulsi or holy basil is “sacred but seriously effective.” It can be consumed through various methods, including chewing the leaves, brewed as tulsi tea, or even adding five to 10 drops of tulsi extract works well. The cardiologist recommends, “Take it in the morning and start your day clean and calm.” The health benefits include boosting immunity, supporting lung function and improving gut health.

Giloy - Amrita

Dr Chopra says that giloy or amrita is also known as “root of immortality.” He recommends drinking one or two teaspoons of giloy juice or taking one tablet on an empty stomach, in the morning. “It's an immunity booster and a fever fighter,” states the cardiologist, and adds, “Take it in the morning. It will support your immunity all day.”

Moringa - Drumstick tree

The cardiologist says, “It's packed with iron, calcium, protein and antioxidants and really turns out to be the ultimate nutritional bomb.” He recommends blending one teaspoon into smoothies or warm water. It can also be taken in capsule form in the morning or noon - it keeps fuels your energy levels and helps with focus.

Ashwagandha

Dr Chopra considers ashwagandha as “nature’s stress buster.” It not only balances hormones and calms anxiety but also boosts stamina. “Mix one teaspoon of powder or 300 to 600 mg extract into warm water or milk,” he recommends, adding, “have it at night as it will promote better sleep and stress relief.”

Turmeric - Haldi

Next on Dr Chopra’s list is turmeric or haldi, which he terms as the “golden healer.” He points out, “It fights inflammation, boosts immunity and works as a natural antioxidant.” The doctor suggests adding half a teaspoon of turmeric in warm milk and taking it before bed; stirring it in daily cooking also works well. Taking it at night also induces deep sleep and recovery.

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Triphala

Triphala means “three fruits,” as mentioned by Dr Chopra. It is a powerful gut cleanser that supports digestion and also contains detoxing properties. He doctor recommends, “Dissolve a teaspoon of powder in warm water at night or take one tablet. Take it at night as it will detox you while you sleep.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

  • Eshana Saha
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Eshana Saha

    Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More

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