Sanskrit Name: Not listed in Classical Texts
Devanagari Name: कॉफी
Botanical Name: Coffea arabica
English Name: Coffee
Description
Coffee is a globally favored drink known for its unique aroma and taste. Its health advantages stem from compounds like caffeine, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid.
Coffee acts as a central nervous system stimulant, enhancing energy, alleviating mental fatigue, and improving reaction times. In situations of sudden blood pressure drops, a cup of coffee can offer quick relief.
Consuming one or two cups of black coffee each day may aid in weight management. Additionally, a face pack made from coffee powder and rose water can rejuvenate the skin and protect it from sun damage due to its antioxidant content.
However, overindulgence in coffee may lead to insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety.
Benefits – through the lens of Ayurveda
In classical Ayurvedic texts, coffee (Coffea arabica) is not mentioned, as it is not native to ancient India and was introduced much later (around the 16th century CE) through Arab traders.
Main Chemical Constituents
- Caffeine
- Chlorogenic acid
- Trigonelline
- Cafestol
Nutritional Components
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Niacin (Vitamin B3)
- Trace amounts of riboflavin
Medical Conditions(Relief)
- Coffee provides relief for conditions such as low energy, fatigue, and low blood pressure due to its caffeine content.
- It also helps in enhancing cognitive function, improving mood, and boosting metabolism.
- Coffee is rich in antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
- It is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Coffee also supports liver health by promoting detoxification and preventing liver disease.
- It has been shown to enhance physical performance by increasing energy levels and improving stamina during exercise.
- Additionally, coffee helps in regulating blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Medical Conditions(Avoid)
- Coffee should be avoided by individuals with caffeine sensitivity, anxiety disorders, or sleep disturbances.
- People with acid reflux or ulcers should limit their coffee intake, as it can increase acidity.
- Pregnant women should consume coffee in moderation and consult their healthcare provider.
References
- Kalangutker G NX, Joshi M P. Pharmacological and behavioral comparative study of allium cepa linn. Bulb and coffee with Bhavana treatment in rats. Pharm Pharmacol Int J. 2015;2(3):95‒100. DOI: 10.15406/ppij.2015.02.00024
- George, S. E., Ramalakshmi, K., & Mohan Rao, L. J. (2008). A Perception on Health Benefits of Coffee. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 48(5), 464–486. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408390701522445
- International Coffee Organization (ICO). Coffee Market Report, December 2018; ICO: London, UK, 2018;
- Euromonitor International. Coffee in 2018: The New Era of Coffee Everywhere; Euromonitor International: London, UK, 2018.
- Guimarães, E.R.; Leme, P.H.; De Rezende, D.C.; Pereira, S.P.; Dos Santos, A.C. The brand new Brazilian specialty coffee market. J. Food Prod. Mark. 2019, 25, 49–71.
- Corso, M.; Kalschne, D.; Benassi, M. Consumer’s Attitude Regarding Soluble Coffee Enriched with Antioxidants. Beverages 2018, 4, 72.
- Ciaramelli, C.; Palmioli, A.; Airoldi, C. Coffee variety, origin and extraction procedure: Implications for coffee beneficial effects on human health. Food Chem. 2019, 278, 47–55.
- Messina, G.; Zannella, C.; Monda, V.; Dato, A.; Liccardo, D.; De Blasio, S.; Valenzano, A.; Moscatelli, F.; Messin, A.; Cibelli, G.; et al. The Beneficial Effects of Coffee in Human Nutrition. Biol. Med. 2015, 7, 240:1–240:5.
- Poole, R.; Kennedy, O.J.; Roderick, P.; Fallowfield, J.A.; Hayes, P.C.; Parkes, J. Coffee consumption and health: Umbrella review of meta-analyses of multiple health outcomes. BMJ 2017.
