Chyawanprash is a powerful and potent supplement when it's authentic. In this article we're going to explain the importance and distinction of authentic Chyawanprash and let you know what to look for when trying to purchase genuine Ayurvedic Chyawanprash.
Check the Ingredients
Chyawanprash formulations contain a large number of different ingredients which vary by manufacturer. How can you be certain that your Chyawanprash is authentic when there are so many different ingredients listed?
It contains Amla as main ingredient
Chyawanprash was originally formulated with Indian Gooseberry, also known as Amla, as the primary ingredient. Indian gooseberry is one of the most prized fruits in all of Ayurveda. Forming the base of Chyawanprash, amla is able to help encourage full-body functioning by boosting immunity and increasing the elimination of toxins. Indian Gooseberry Chyawanprash is the original form of Chyawanprash and is the foundation of authentic Chyawanprash.
It contains real Indian Cow Ghee
Traditional Chyawanprash was formulated using real cow ghee, also known as ghruta. The major differences between ghruta and ghee are that ghruta is made using Ayurvedic techniques and uses the milk from a specific type of cow: the Gir cow. The Gir cow produces milk that is easier to digest. It is also held in high esteem by Ayurvedic practitioners because the hump on the back of the cow is believed to absorb sunlight and convert it into powerful nutrients. These nutrients are then passed through the cow's milk and into the ghee that is used to produce Chyawanprash.
It contains natural sugars
In Ayurveda, sugar serves a role as an anupan, or carrier substance to transport the medicinal benefits of ingredients deeper into the body's tissues. Chyawanprash should therefore be made with honey and/or jaggery, but not refined sugar.
It follows the original recipe customized per time and space
Regarding the rest of the ingredients, authentic Chyawanprash should follow original recipes, like those from Charaka and Bhavaprakasha. However, it's important to note that the initial formulation crafted by Sage Chywana was for that Time and Space. Ayurveda customizes everything as per Time and Space as these are 2 of the 9 Dravya. Therefore, although Jivaniya Gana Herbs were included in the original Chyawanprash, they are no longer available due to extinction. Due to the Time element, we can make substitutions with botanicals that possess similar qualities. In addition, due to the Space element, Chyawanprash's usefulness in eastern and western worlds are very different. Chyawanprash can and should be customized to meet the needs of the population.
Determine the Ingredient Quality
When making authentic Chyawanprash, the quality of the ingredients are just as important as the ingredients themselves. Traditional Chyawanprash should only use two types of ingredients:
- Wild-crafted. This is the best type of ingredient. Wild-crafted ingredients are found in nature, as they would normally thrive. Wild-crafted ingredients are the healthiest, happiest, and most potent form of ingredient that you can find.
- Organic. In modern times, it can be difficult and cost prohibitive to find wild-crafted ingredients. Organic ingredients are the next-best. Organic ingredients are free from pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful substances that could taint the Chyawanprash formula.
In addition to being high quality, the ingredients in authentic Chyawanprash should also be sourced ethically and sustainably. According to the Vedas, our food carries memory and imprints of the entire production process (dietary ecosystem). These memories sync with our own memories once we consume food. Therefore the intention and integrity behind the land, farming, people, culture, and habitat are essential to our health.
Consider the Production Techniques
Authentic Chyawanprash is also made using genuine Ayurvedic techniques. The traditional preparation of Chyawanprash involves hand-crafted methods. This will ensure the herbs and ingredients are prepared in their most potent and effective state. PIOR Living Chyawanprash is proud to meet all of these distinctions to ensure pure, authentic Chyawanprash!
- We use amla as the base ingredient
- Our ghee is made from free range, grass-fed Indian Gir cows
- The sugars used are honey and jaggery
- We follow the Charaka and Bhavaprakasha recipes with enhancements for Western health and digestive needs
- Our ingredients are wild-crafted and organic, and sustainably sourced from India
- We make our Chyawanprash in small batches using traditional Ayurvedic techniques