In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, most people talk about weight loss, but there are many who struggle with being underweight and low energy levels. According to Ayurveda, being underweight is often linked to imbalanced Agni (digestive fire), weak nutrient absorption, and aggravated Vata dosha. Unlike chemical supplements, Ayurvedic herbs nourish the body naturally and restore balance. In this blog, let’s explore the top 5 herbs for weight gain and how they can help you achieve a healthy body.
1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), known as the “Indian Ginseng,” is widely used in Ayurveda as a powerful Rasayana (rejuvenator) to promote strength, stamina, and nourishment of body tissues. Its guru (heavy) and balya (strength-promoting) properties help in healthy weight gain by improving digestion, enhancing nutrient absorption, and supporting muscle growth. Modern studies also suggest that Ashwagandha helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, boosts testosterone, and promotes muscle mass and strength, making it beneficial for underweight individuals seeking natural weight gain.
How to Use: Take Ashwagandha powder with warm milk or as recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
2. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is revered in Ayurveda as a nourishing Rasayana herb, especially known for its guru (heavy), snigdha (unctuous), and balya (strengthening) properties that support tissue building and promote healthy weight gain. It enhances digestion, improves nutrient assimilation, and strengthens ojas (vital energy), thereby aiding overall vitality. From a modern perspective, Shatavari is rich in antioxidants, saponins, and phytoestrogens that help in balancing hormones, improving appetite, and supporting muscle as well as fat metabolism—making it an excellent herb for individuals aiming for natural and sustainable weight gain.
How to Use: Take Shatavri powder with warm milk or as recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
3.Yashtiadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Yasthimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), commonly known as licorice, is described in Ayurveda as madhura rasa pradhana (sweet in taste) and balya (strength-promoting), which helps nourish body tissues, increase stamina, and support healthy weight gain. Its snigdha (unctuous) and brimhana (nourishing) properties make it useful for improving overall vitality and strength. From a modern perspective, Yasthimadhu contains glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that support adrenal health, reduce stress, improve digestion, and enhance nutrient absorption. By boosting energy levels and promoting better metabolism, it indirectly contributes to natural and healthy weight gain.
How to Use: Take Yashtimadhu powder with warm milk or as recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
4.Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa)
Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa) is a well-known Rasayana herb in Ayurveda, traditionally used for strength, nourishment, and healthy weight gain. It is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as a Bṛṃhaṇīya dravya (bulk-promoting substance) because of its madhura rasa (sweet taste), guru (heavy), and snigdha (unctuous) properties, which help in nourishing dhātus (body tissues) and enhancing ojas (vital energy).Its tubers contain a high amount of starch, proteins, isoflavones, and minerals, which provide energy and support tissue growth. Studies highlight its anabolic, antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties, which help improve appetite, enhance protein metabolism, and promote muscle mass development.
5. Masparni(Teramnus labialis)
Masparni, also known as Mashaparni, is an important Ayurvedic herb and one of the ten herbs included in the famous Dashmoola group. It is widely used in Rasayana (rejuvenating) and Balya (strength-promoting) therapies. Ayurveda describes it as nourishing, strengthening, and highly effective in improving overall body mass.Masaparni (Teramnus labialis) is valued as a natural source of proteins, essential amino acids, flavonoids, and antioxidants that support nutrition and tissue growth.
6. Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum)
Described as balya (strength-promoting), brimhana (bulk-promoting), and rasāyana (rejuvenative).Its madhura rasa (sweet taste), guru (heavy), and snigdha (unctuous) qualities help nourish dhātus (tissues), enhance stamina, and support healthy weight gain.Rich in steroidal saponins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, and proteins, making it a natural anabolic agent.
Conclusion
Ayurvedic herbs offer a safe and natural way to gain healthy weight while balancing overall health. Deep Ayurveda Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Safed Musli, and Yashtimadhu are among the best herbs that not only promote weight gain but also improve strength, digestion, and immunity. Backed by both Ayurvedic wisdom and modern scientific studies, these herbs provide a safe, sustainable, and side-effect–free way to gain healthy weight while improving strength, immunity, and well-being.
