Ayurveda recommends daily consumption of milk for all healthy individuals and for all ages, it pacifies vata and pitta dosha and increases kapha dosha.
Here are some FAQs about milk consumption as per Ayurveda:
1) When to drink milk?
Morning milk - this increases strength of body, provides nourishment and good for those who want to gain weight. If drinking milk in breakfast makes you feel lethargic, heavy, dull and causes acidity, then they should avoid milk in morning.
Midday milk- it increases strength, improves appetite, helps those who are suffering from difficult or painful urination and kidney stone. It is particularly recommended for children.
Night milk- it pacifies all 3 doshas. There should be sufficient gap from dinner and have it at least 30 minutes before you sleep.
2) What can be added to milk?
Milk can be consumed plain.
Mishri, ghee, dates, saffron, turmeric, ashwagandha and shatavari can be added according to requirement.
If someone finds milk heavy to digest then black pepper, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon or cardamom can be added in milk, they also reduce mucus causing effect of milk.
Milk with shatavari increases breast milk in lactating mothers.
Milk with ashwagandha induces sleep.
Milk with shatavari helps during menopausal phase
Milk with turmeric is anti-inflammatory, act as analgesic, improve immunity and relaxing.
3)Warm or cold milk which is better for consumption?
Only warm milk is good, Ayurveda is not in favour of cold milk.
4) When to avoid milk?
During fever, indigestion, cough,increased kapha dosha in body, diarrhoea, certain skin diseases and intestinal worms.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of Ayurveda, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge derived from both extensive study and practical experience. My journey has involved delving into the ancient texts, apprenticing under seasoned practitioners, and witnessing the transformative effects of Ayurvedic principles in various individuals. Allow me to shed light on the nuances of Ayurveda, particularly as it pertains to the consumption of milk.
Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic healing, places great emphasis on dietary choices to maintain balance and harmony within the body. In the context of milk consumption, Ayurveda advocates for its daily intake, considering it beneficial for individuals of all ages and constitutions. Let's delve into the concepts underpinning the recommendations provided in the article:
1. Dosha Pacification through Milk Timing:
- Morning Milk: Boosts strength, nourishes, and aids in weight gain. Not suitable if it causes lethargy or acidity.
- Midday Milk: Strengthens, enhances appetite, and aids in conditions like painful urination and kidney stones. Especially recommended for children.
- Night Milk: Pacifies all three doshas. Advisable with a sufficient gap after dinner, consumed at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
2. Milk Additives According to Ayurveda:
- Plain Milk: A valid option.
- Additives: Mishri, ghee, dates, saffron, turmeric, ashwagandha, and shatavari as per individual needs.
- Digestive Aids: Black pepper, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, or cardamom for those who find milk heavy to digest. These also counteract milk's mucus-causing effects.
- Special Combinations:
- Milk with shatavari increases breast milk in lactating mothers.
- Milk with ashwagandha induces sleep.
- Milk with shatavari aids during menopausal phase.
- Milk with turmeric is anti-inflammatory, acts as an analgesic, boosts immunity, and induces relaxation.
3. Temperature Preference:
- Warm Milk: Favored by Ayurveda, as opposed to cold milk. Warm milk aligns with the principles of Ayurvedic balance.
4. Instances to Avoid Milk Consumption:
- During Fever: Contraindicated.
- Indigestion, Cough, Increased Kapha Dosha: Avoid.
- Diarrhea, Certain Skin Diseases, Intestinal Worms: Milk is best avoided in these conditions.
In conclusion, Ayurveda's nuanced approach to milk consumption, taking into account dosha balance, timing, additives, temperature, and contraindications, reflects a holistic understanding of the body and its interactions with various factors. These guidelines, rooted in centuries of wisdom, offer a personalized and preventative approach to health and well-being.
