Possibility of Ayurveda in boosting immunity in the time of pandemic

Photo by Valeria Boltneva

In the wake of the outbreak of the highly infectious coronavirus disease, many, especially those who are in old age and living with weak immunity, have been advised to increase their immunity system. It is natural, at this time; people may also seek alternative therapeutic options too.

As the most ancient medical system originated in India, Ayurveda also has many immunity boosting medicines and tips which are time-tested and very helpful in the present crisis period.

In Ayurveda, there are some definite methods to increase immunity and in the ancient texts it is described as Yukthi krutha balam. Along with a healthy diet, lifestyle and regular exercise, Ayurveda also suggests some medicines which have been helping people to gain better immunity power.

According to Ayurveda, immunity boosting measures should start from one’s childhood. More systematic ways can be followed as age progresses.

There are some well structured immunization methods which can be considered equivalent to modern immunity schedules.

It can be started even with a baby in regular time periods such as from the month of a baby born, after 3 months, 6 months and to the time he or she reaches 12 years of age.

Ayurveda features this scheduling as “Prakara yogam” which means “walls to protect the child from the burglar ailments.”

Those people who started these medicines in early childhood are found capable enough to protect themselves from getting infections later.

Moreover, it has been scientifically proven that most of the medicines in this category are immuno modulators and Ayurveda physicians have been prescribing these medicines for a long time to strengthen immunity of the patients.

Some concoctions, “Grutha yogas,”tablets, vital drinks etc. have immuno modulating capacity and many research papers regarding this subject are available now.

But what medicine is better in this time of pandemic is a difficult question to answer.

Whatever it may be, each medicine has to be taken as per the guidance of an experienced physician.

So it is better to consult an authorized Ayurveda practitioner in this regard and take the medicines which he prescribes. It would be definitely helpful in increasing the immunity and curb the coronavirus menace.

Ayurveda would be very helpful in   controlling the pandemic by increasing immunity. But it should be used within the guidelines by WHO and the health departments of respective governments.

Courtesy:Dr.Shabu Pattambi