Quick Take
A social media post claims that a herbal powder can increase height by 7cm. We did a fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
The Instagram video claims that consuming a powder made from Shunthi, Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Kutki, Jaiphal, and Tabashir twice a day with lactose-free milk can increase height by 7 cm. The person also mentions that the powder’s unpleasant taste led to the creation of capsules, which supposedly have research backing their effectiveness.
Fact Check
Can a herbal powder made from Shunthi, Shatawar, Ashwagandha, Kutki, Jaiphal, and Tabashir make you taller by 7 cm?
Not really. Height growth largely depends on genetics and environmental factors, especially during the growth period, which ends after the late teens or early twenties. Once the growth plates in the bones close, typically around 18-20 years of age, height cannot be increased through any dietary supplement or herb.
Here’s a closer look at each ingredient, its known benefits, and whether it has any connection to height growth:
- Shunthi (Ginger): Shunthi, or dried ginger, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, helping with issues like nausea and improving digestion. However, there is no scientific proof that it can increase height or stimulate bone growth. Rarely, Shunthi may cause side effects like rash, swelling, or increased bleeding. It can also interact with anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen. Ayurveda advises against using Shunthi in summer or for conditions related to high Pitta (excess heat in the body).
- Shatavari: This herb is commonly used in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic properties, helping to manage stress and support reproductive health. While Shatavari is beneficial for overall vitality, there is no proof that it can affect height growth, especially once the growth plates in bones have closed.
- Ashwagandha: It is widely studied for its ability to reduce stress and boost energy levels. While it may improve general health and well-being, there is no scientific evidence linking it to increased height. It does not stimulate bone growth after the growth period ends.
- Kutki: Known for its detoxifying and immune-boosting properties, Kutki is used to support liver health and digestion. However, like the other herbs, it does not have any proven effect on height increase, especially once the growth plates have fused.
- Jaiphal (Nutmeg): Jaiphal is used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. While it can help in digestion and reduce inflammation, there is no research supporting its ability to increase height. It does not influence bone growth.
- Tabashir: Tabashir is a substance derived from bamboo, often used in traditional medicine for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. There is no evidence to suggest that Tabashir can promote height growth or stimulate bone elongation.
While these herbs may offer various health benefits, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that they can increase height, especially once the growth plates have closed.
We checked with Dr Annusuiya Gohil, MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, for her expertise on herbal mixtures for increasing height. She explains, “From an Ayurvedic perspective, height growth mainly depends on genetics and environmental factors during the natural growth phase, which ends when the growth plates close. While herbs like Shunthi, Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Kutki, Jaiphal, and Tabashir are popular for their health benefits, neither Ayurveda nor modern science provides evidence that they can increase height once this phase is over. These herbs support overall vitality and well-being but cannot stimulate bone growth or alter one’s genetic potential.”
Dt. Harita Adhvaryu, Senior Clinical Dietitian at Ezcure Diabetes Care in Ahmedabad, states, “Height basically depends on genetics and the height of one’s parents. Proper nutrition during childhood and teenage years can help maximise height potential, but once bone growth is complete, no diet or treatment can make a person taller.”
Despite expert advice, many people and markets continue to promote Ayurvedic supplements or even unusual remedies like eating chuna with dahi to increase height. However, these methods are unlikely to be effective, especially once the growth plates have closed.
Can milk and herbs help with bone health?
Yes, but not in the way suggested. Milk is rich in calcium, which is vital for bone health. When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, it helps maintain bone density and strength. However, no combination of herbs and milk can physically lengthen bones after the growth plates close.
Can capsules be a better alternative to the powder?
It depends on personal preference. While capsules may be more convenient, they don’t make the herbs more effective for height growth. Whether in powder or capsule form, these herbs mainly offer adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits, not bone elongation, and cannot increase height once the growth phase is over.
What is the role of genetics in height?
Genetics are the main factor in determining height. While nutrition and health during childhood and adolescence can influence growth, once the body reaches its full potential, no supplement can change this. Height is largely governed by the genes inherited from your parents, and no external remedy can override this genetic blueprint.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a herbal powder can increase height by 7cm is false. The herbs mentioned may offer health benefits, but they cannot increase height once growth plates have closed. For bone health, focus on a balanced diet, exercise, and overall well-being. No herb or supplement can increase height after the growth phase.
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