Ayurveda Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which herb is traditionally used in Ayurveda as a galactagogue to increase breast milk production?
- Shatavari (Correct answer)
- Vidanga
- Chitraka
- Vacha
Correct answer: Shatavari
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is the primary Ayurvedic herb used as a galactagogue and tonic for the female reproductive system.
Question 2: What is the Ayurvedic term for the active principle or potency of a herb that produces its therapeutic effect?
- Rasa
- Vipaka
- Virya (Correct answer)
- Prabhava
Correct answer: Virya
Virya refers to the potency or energy of a herb — typically classified as Ushna (hot) or Sheeta (cold) — that determines its primary therapeutic action.
Question 3: Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is primarily used in Ayurveda for which of the following conditions?
- Neurological disorders
- Inflammation and wound healing (Correct answer)
- Respiratory infections only
- Reproductive disorders only
Correct answer: Inflammation and wound healing
Turmeric is most widely used in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, attributed to its active compound curcumin.
Question 4: Which Ayurvedic herb is known as 'Satavari' and belongs to the Asparagus family?
- Brahmi
- Shatavari (Correct answer)
- Shankhpushpi
- Jatamansi
Correct answer: Shatavari
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is commonly called Satavari and is a member of the Asparagus family used as a female reproductive tonic.
Question 5: The Ayurvedic herb Vidanga (Embelia ribes) is primarily used to treat which condition?
- Cardiac disorders
- Intestinal worms (Krimi) (Correct answer)
- Anemia
- Asthma
Correct answer: Intestinal worms (Krimi)
Vidanga is classically used in Ayurveda as a Krimighna (anthelmintic) herb to eliminate intestinal parasites and worms.
Question 6: Which part of the Haritaki plant is used medicinally in Ayurveda?
- Root
- Leaf
- Fruit (Correct answer)
- Bark only
Correct answer: Fruit
The fruit of Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is the medicinal part used in Ayurveda, particularly in Triphala and other classical formulations.
Ayurveda Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals 2
Which herb is traditionally used in Ayurveda as a galactagogue to increase breast milk production?