Ayurveda Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which herb is known as 'Indian Ginseng' in Ayurveda and is primarily used as an adaptogen?
- Ashwagandha (Correct answer)
- Brahmi
- Shatavari
- Guduchi
Correct answer: Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is called 'Indian Ginseng' due to its powerful adaptogenic properties that help the body resist stress.
Question 2: Triphala is a classical Ayurvedic formula composed of three fruits; which of the following is NOT one of them?
- Haritaki
- Amalaki
- Bibhitaki
- Ashwagandha (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Ashwagandha
Triphala consists of Haritaki, Amalaki, and Bibhitaki — three fruits used together to support digestion and detoxification.
Question 3: Which Ayurvedic herb is the richest natural source of Vitamin C and is used extensively to rejuvenate the body?
- Brahmi
- Amalaki (Correct answer)
- Neem
- Turmeric
Correct answer: Amalaki
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), also known as Indian gooseberry, is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C and a primary Rasayana herb.
Question 4: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) is primarily classified under which Ayurvedic therapeutic category?
- Rasayana (Correct answer)
- Deepaniya
- Pachana
- Shothahara
Correct answer: Rasayana
Guduchi is primarily classified as a Rasayana herb, known for its immunomodulatory and rejuvenating properties.
Question 5: Which herb is described as 'Medhya Rasayana' in Ayurveda, specifically used to enhance cognitive function?
- Haritaki
- Brahmi (Correct answer)
- Vidanga
- Punarnava
Correct answer: Brahmi
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is the primary Medhya Rasayana herb, renowned for enhancing memory, intelligence, and mental clarity.
Question 6: Neem (Azadirachta indica) is known for which predominant taste (Rasa) in Ayurveda?
- Madhura (Sweet)
- Amla (Sour)
- Tikta (Bitter) (Correct answer)
- Katu (Pungent)
Correct answer: Tikta (Bitter)
Neem is predominantly Tikta (bitter) in taste, which makes it effective for pacifying Pitta and Kapha doshas.
Which herb is known as 'Indian Ginseng' in Ayurveda and is primarily used as an adaptogen?