Grounding Chicken Bone Broth
A Nourishing Ayurvedic Staple for Digestion, Immunity, and Vitality
Bone broth has been used across cultures for centuries as a deeply restorative food. In Ayurveda, warm, slow-cooked broths are considered one of the most grounding and nourishing preparations you can offer the body. Bone broth supports Agni, the digestive fire, while building Ojas, the subtle essence responsible for immunity, resilience, and vitality.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, bone broth is especially beneficial for calming Vata dosha. Its warm, moist, and oily qualities help counter dryness, depletion, irregular digestion, fatigue, and nervous system stress. It is also supportive during times of travel, seasonal transitions, illness recovery, postpartum healing, or whenever the body needs gentle nourishment.
Benefits of Bone Broth for Health and Ayurveda
Bone broth is rich in minerals, amino acids, collagen, and gelatin, which support the gut lining, joints, skin, hair, and immune system. When simmered slowly, these nutrients become highly bioavailable and easy to digest.
Ayurvedically, bone broth:
Strengthens Agni without overwhelming digestion
Builds Ojas and supports immunity and resiliency
Nourishes tissues, especially bones, joints, and connective tissue
Supports healthy elimination and gut integrity
Grounds and stabilizes the nervous system
Is deeply supportive for Vata and can be adapted for Pitta or Kapha with spices
This makes bone broth an ideal daily tonic or seasonal medicine.
Grounding Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients
2 to 3 lbs organic chicken bones or one whole chicken
10 cups water
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, smashed
1 inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Optional spices and herbs: bay leaf, cumin, coriander, fennel, cinnamon, clove, star anise, turmeric
Salt to taste
Instructions
Place all ingredients into a large pot or slow cooker.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 6 to 8 hours. You may simmer up to 24 hours for a richer broth.
Skim any foam that rises to the top during the first hour.
Strain the broth and discard solids.
Store in glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
How to Use Bone Broth
Sip bone broth warm in the evening as a grounding ritual, especially during colder months or after travel. You can also use it as a base for soups, stews, kitchari, or congee.
For added Ayurvedic support:
Add ghee for extra nourishment and grounding
Add turmeric and black pepper for inflammation and immunity
Add cumin, coriander, and fennel to support digestion
Add a pinch of hing for gas or bloating
A Final Note
Bone broth is more than a recipe. It is a ritual of slowing down, of letting warmth and nourishment infuse the body deeply. When prepared with intention and sipped slowly, it becomes a form of medicine that supports healing on both a physical and subtle level.
Let this broth be a reminder that true nourishment begins with warmth, patience, and presence.