Onion and Garlic in Fasting: In Hindu religion, onion and garlic food is avoided during fasting. Whereas sages and saints do not eat onion and garlic throughout their life. There is a special religious belief hidden behind this.
Why No Onion Garlic: In India, people avoid eating onion-garlic during Navratri, Ekadashi, Shivratri, Monday and many other fasts. The question that comes to mind is why is this done? Is there only religious belief behind this or is there any reason related to Ayurveda and lifestyle? Let us know why onion and garlic are not eaten during fast?
Is eating onion and garlic prohibited in Hindu religion?
In Hindu religion, the purpose of fasting is not just to stay hungry, but to have control over the mind, speech and senses. Therefore, during the fast, preference is given to such food, which is called Satvik food. In traditions, onion and garlic are considered to be food with tamasic or in some beliefs, rajasic tendencies. For this reason they are avoided during fasting and worship.
Why do sages and saints not eat onion-garlic food?
The life of saints and sages is based on religion and spirituality. For them, meditation and chanting are an important part of daily life. According to belief, consumption of onion and garlic can increase playfulness and excitement in the mind. Therefore, sages and saints prefer such food, which is considered helpful in keeping the mind calm and stable.
What is satvik food?
Satvik food is considered to be that which helps in keeping the mind calm, light and concentrated. During fasting people usually eat…
– Fruit
– milk and curd
– Fox Nut
– water chestnut flour
– buckwheat flour
– Sago
– dried fruits
This food is considered more suitable for worship and meditation.
What does Ayurveda say?
Many medicinal properties of onion and garlic have been described in Ayurveda. These are considered beneficial for digestion, heart and immunity. But Ayurveda also tells that their effect can be stimulating on the body and mind. For this reason, it is advised to avoid them during some spiritual practices and fasting. That is, Ayurveda does not consider them to be harmful, but sees their use according to the need and situation of the person.
Does science also say the same?
From the point of view of science, onion and garlic are food products rich in nutrients. These are found in…
– Antioxidant
– Sulfur Compounds
– Vitamin C
– fiber
– A variety of beneficial plant-based ingredients
WHO considers them part of a balanced diet. Therefore, the reason for not eating them during fasting is mainly religious and cultural tradition.