Ayurveda on Supplements: Why More Isn’t Always Better

Moderation is the key to health. Ayurvedic tenets have underlined this throughout the ages. Ayurveda advocates the use of Rasayanas (herbal rejuvenators) as they support the body by nourishing the dhatus (tissues). However, it places aahara (food) as the main key to a thriving life. It recommends Ayurvedic health supplements - herbal formulations – in special cases based on prakriti (individual constitution), age, specific ailments and doshic inclinations. Read on to know more about the Ayurvedic perspective on supplements and why more isn’t always better.

The Modern Supplement Trend 

In the name of immunity, longevity, beauty and healthy ageing, people are becoming increasingly inclined towards health supplements. Post-COVID immunity has come into sharper focus, and there is a marked spike in the consumption of protein supplements, general probiotics and specific formulations for gut health to improve quality of life. 

Why People Take Multiple Supplements  

The tendency to consume supplements has increased in recent years as more people become aware of nutritional gaps in their diets, especially of Vitamin D and B12.

Other factors include age-related issues such as bone fragility, fatigue and weakness due to lifestyle situations. The influence of trending social media also plays a part.

The ‘More Is Better’ Mindset

With consumerism on the rise in modern living, the ‘more is better’ mindset has grown and today, impacts almost every aspect of life, including the consumption of supplements.

How Ayurveda Views Supplementation

In the debate on food vs supplements, Ayurveda is very clear: it follows a holistic approach to nourishment and prevention of ill-health. Classical traditions hold that the body is panchabhautik (composed of five elements) and is sustained primarily by anna (food). Properly digested food, through the action of agni (digestive fire), nourishes each mahabhuta (element) and supports dhatu (body tissues) formation.

However, Ayurveda is also a firm advocate of the mindful use of Ayurvedic Rasayanas (herbal rejuvenators), which are known to help boost tissue health and overall well-being and may be considered to be natural Ayurvedic supplements.

Food First Approach

Ayurveda believes food is the primary source of dhatu (body tissues) formation. Meals need to include shad rasa (all six tastes) to ensure complete natural nourishment. Rasayana (rejuvenative) herbal formulations or Ayurvedic supplements help nourish Rasa Dhatu (main nutrient tissue), which in turn nourishes the seven tissues in the body. In Ayurveda, sattvic aahar (pure and balanced foods) are given preference – this helps maintain dosha balance and supports long-term ojas (essence of vitality).

Importance of Agni (Digestive Fire)

 Strong agni is important to overall health. Even nutritious food will not benefit the body if digestion is weak. Agni-supportive foods and lifestyle habits help the entire digestive process function properly, ensuring tissue nourishment and preventing the accumulation of toxins.

Prakriti (Individual Constitution)

Ayurveda emphasises the significance of the individual constitution, and that foods and herbs should be personalised to align with prakriti and digestive capacity. What may nourish an individual may lead to an imbalance in another. Ayurveda advises expert guidance to determine the foods one should consume according to one’s doshic (internal bio-energies) configuration, as well as seasonal and geographical requirements of the place of residence.

When Too Many Supplements Can Backfire

Supplements, including minerals, may be harmful in some cases. Therefore, it’s always best to be cautious when incorporating them into your daily routine.

Poor Absorption

An excess of vitamins may cause problems due to the way they are absorbed into the body tissues. Vitamins such as A, D, E and K get stored in the liver and fat. An excess can build up to toxic levels over time. Water-soluble vitamins are generally flushed out of the body; however, higher doses of these, too, can cause imbalances.

Digestive Overload

Minerals are essential for the human body, but they are required in minuscule amounts. Excessive intake of minerals can cause damage to your system. For example:

Nutrient Imbalance

 Excess intake of one mineral may hinder the absorption efficiency of another, leading to an imbalance. For example, excess iron hampers zinc absorption and too much zinc, on the other hand, hampers copper absorption.  

How to Choose Supplements the Ayurvedic Way

Ayurvedic tenets emphasise that supplements must be taken in alignment with prakriti (individual constitution), agni (digestive fire), stage of life, and specific imbalances – not trends. To make the right choice of supplements, it’s best to consult an expert. Over-the-counter purchases are not advised. 

A core concept of Ayurveda is samanya (similarity). The principle is simple: When you introduce a dravya (substance) into your system or incorporate a habit that has similar qualities to dhatus (tissues) or doshas (bio-energies) in your body, it causes vriddhi (increase) in similar qualities. For instance, to enhance Mamsa Dhatu (muscle tissue), one may consume mamsa (meat) or foods with similar properties. Supplements must be chosen keeping this principle in mind.

In Ayurveda, the body is believed to function holistically; parts of the constitution cannot be viewed in isolation. Ayurvedic formulations, therefore, often combine several herbs to create a holistic, synergistic effect tailored to individual needs, which must be clearly ascertained before consuming any supplement.

Based on Digestive Strength

Supplements should be selected according to individual agni (digestive fire). There is no universal formula that suits all – no one-size-fits-all. Choosing formulations that align with one’s digestive capacities ensures effectiveness.

Based on Life Stage

Human beings undergo physiological and psychological changes throughout their lives. With ageing, changes are more pronounced; however, individual dhatu (tissues) conditions may vary. Supplements must be aligned with whichever dhatu requires support in the individual.

Based on Imbalance, Not Trend

This aligns with Ayurveda’s basic principle of treating the individual as a unique being – no universal trend or fad is likely to address individual imbalance and needs. Supplements need to address a person’s dosha inclination and dhatu requirements.

Some formulations, such as Chyawanprash, are considered safe and universally beneficial and have withstood the test of time. However, age, dose, and ailment should always be taken into consideration.

Quality control is another aspect to be mindful of – especially when considering Ayurvedic supplements. Look for organic herbs that are sustainably sourced and properly processed. Check for third-party testing, proper certifications and transparent ingredient lists. Legacy brands that have stood the test of time are a good starting point.

Signs You May Be Taking Too Many Supplements 

Over-supplementation can adversely impact your digestive and nervous systems, skin and heart health, among other health imbalances. Here are signs that indicate you may be taking too many supplements.

Gastrointestinal problems: