In the
wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, entire mankind across the globe is suffering.
Enhancing the body’s natural defence system (immunity) plays an important role
in maintaining optimum health. We all know that prevention is better than cure.
While there is no medicine for Covid-19 as of now, it is recommended to take
preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times.
Ayurveda, being the science of life,
propagates the gifts of nature in maintaining healthy and happy living.
Ayurveda’s extensive knowledge base on preventive care derives from the
concepts of “Dinacharya” - daily regimes and “Ritucharya” - seasonal regimes to
maintain healthy life. It is a plant-based science. The simplicity of awareness
about oneself and the harmony each individual can achieve by uplifting and
maintaining his or her immunity is emphasized across Ayurveda’s classical
scriptures.
Ministry of AYUSH recommends the following
self-care guidelines for preventive health measures and boosting immunity with
special reference to respiratory health. These are supported by Ayurvedic
literature and scientific publications.
Recommended Measures
General
Measures
1. Drink warm water throughout the day.
2.
Daily practice of Yogasana, Pranayama and meditation for at least 30 minutes as
advised by Ministry of AYUSH
3.
Spices like Haldi (Turmeric), Jeera (Cumin), Dhaniya (Coriander) and Lahsun
(Garlic) are recommended in cooking.
Ayurvedic
Immunity Promoting Measures
1. Eat
1 tablespoon of Chyavanprash in the morning. Diabetics should take sugar free
Chyavanprash.
2.
Drink herbal tea / decoction (Kadha) made from Tulsi (Basil), Dalchini
(Cinnamon), Kalimirch (Black pepper), Shunthi (Dry Ginger) and Munakka (Raisin)
- once or twice a day. Add jaggery (natural sugar) and / or fresh lemon juice
to your taste, if needed.
3.
Golden Milk- Mix Half tea spoon Haldi (turmeric) powder in 150 ml hot milk – Drink
once or twice a day.
Simple
Ayurvedic Procedures
1. Nasal
application - Apply sesame oil / coconut oil or Ghee in both the nostrils
(Pratimarsh Nasya) in morning and evening.
2. Oil
pulling therapy- Take 1 tablespoon sesame or coconut oil in mouth. Do not
drink, Swish in the mouth for 2 to 3 minutes and spit it off followed by warm
water rinse. This can be done once or twice a day.
During
dry cough / sore throat
1. Steam inhalation with fresh Pudina (Mint)
leaves or Ajwain (Caraway seeds) can be practiced once in a day.
2.
Lavang (Clove) powder mixed with natural sugar / honey can be taken 2-3 times a
day in case of cough or throat irritation.
3.
These measures generally treat normal dry cough and sore throat. However, it is
best to consult doctors if these symptoms persist.