New Delhi: Magh Gupt Navratri begins on January 19, during which devotees offer special items to please Goddess Durga. These include clove, jowar (sorghum) juice, betel leaves, raisins, jaggery, sesame seeds, and cardamom. These offerings are not only dear to the Goddess but are also considered a treasure of medicinal properties in ayurveda.

The items favored by the Goddess provide significant health benefits, enhancing digestion, immunity, respiratory health, and overall physical and mental well-being. Offering these during Gupt Navratri brings both spiritual and physical advantages.

Clove: Clove holds an important place in Ayurveda. It acts as a natural pain reliever, helping with toothache, migraine, bad breath, and digestive issues. Containing eugenol, clove has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It provides relief from cough, cold, gas, and acidity. Chewing clove freshens the mouth and boosts immunity.

Jowar Juice: Jowar juice is considered equivalent to nectar in Ayurveda. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it purifies the body internally, controls blood sugar, and is beneficial for diabetes. It improves digestion, aids weight loss, and reduces joint pain and inflammation. Jowar is essential in Kalash Sthapana rituals.

Betel Leaf: Used in Ayurveda for digestion, respiratory health, and oral hygiene, betel leaf has antiseptic properties that fight bacteria and eliminate bad breath. It provides relief from constipation, acidity, and cough. Containing vitamin C and calcium, it enhances immunity. Betel leaves are highly revered in the worship of Goddess Katyayani and the Navadurga as well as the ten Mahavidyas.

Raisins: Raisins are considered blood purifiers and strength enhancers in Ayurveda. Rich in iron, they help combat anemia and improve blood quality. Raisins aid digestion, relieve constipation, and promote heart health. Their antioxidants brighten the skin and reduce fatigue.

Jaggery: The first day of Gupt Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who favors jaggery. Ayurveda regards jaggery as an excellent source of sweetness, rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium. It prevents anemia, strengthens bones, improves digestion, relieves constipation, and benefits respiratory health. Jaggery keeps the body warm, detoxifies, and alleviates menstrual issues.

Sesame Seeds: In Ayurveda, sesame seeds pacify Vata dosha and are highly nutritious. Rich in calcium, they strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis. Sesame benefits skin and hair, boosts immunity, relieves joint pain, and provides energy. Both black and white sesame seeds are healthful.

Cardamom: Known to balance all three doshas, cardamom improves digestion, reduces gas and bloating, and keeps the mouth fresh. It cleanses the respiratory system and relieves cough. Cardamom’s antioxidants enhance immunity and support heart health.

Honey: Honey is regarded as nectar in Ayurveda. It possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It balances Kapha dosha and provides relief from cough, sore throat, and cold. Honey aids wound healing, improves digestion, boosts immunity, and enhances the effectiveness of other medicines. It supports heart health, weight management, and skin vitality.

These sacred items offered during Magh Gupt Navratri hold immense Ayurvedic value, promoting holistic health alongside spiritual benefits.