As discussed in the last article the primary reason for extra weight is an increased kapha, we shall now learn about some kapha reducing tonics which would be very beneficial for reduction of excess fat.
When food in the stomach is not digested, then it produces ama [toxins] and excessive kapha, so Ayurveda prescribes certain tonics called Deepans, which ignite the digestive fire. A word of caution here, Deepan aggravates pitta so should not be used by people of high pitta prakriti.
An effective Deepan is ginger, which also has many medicinal properties. Including ginger in regular diet ensures proper digestion of food. A small piece of fresh ginger, along with black salt and lemon juice, can be chewed just before meals like a chewing gum. This ignites the pachak agni (digestive fire). Ginger tea can also be taken during the day. It is found to be effective in clearing mucous and is also a carminative. When fresh ginger is not available dried powder can be used.
You can also make herbal tea of fennel (as explained in the previous articles). Fennel can also be boiled unlike majority of other herbs. This tea can be taken throughout the day. Roasted fennel can be chewed after meals. A unique quality of fennel is that it does not aggravate pitta, so high pitta people can also use it.
Cumin seeds, technically they are fruits but are universally called seeds, can be chewed after meals along with fennel. Chewing cumin has an added benefit of not only acting as Deepan but also keeping the teeth clean.
Cold water should never be had with meals by vata and kapha types, pitta types may have it, but not in excess. Cold water extinguishes the digestive fire and spoils the digestive process of the body. As a rule, while using Deepans, drink only warm or hot water. In fact, warm water should be taken by everyone as a practice after meals