Ayurveda, the science of life suggests many ways to support and enhance all life processes by increasing the inner strength and immune response to the stressors either physical, emotional, environmental, etc.

Considering the coronavirus disease outbreak, it is more important than ever to pay attention to increase our inner strength by developing our immune response to many microbes. The word “immunity” means the state of defense from infectious disease. The immune system evolved as a defense system to protect humans from invading microorganisms and many other disorders. The purpose of Ayurveda is to maintain the health of a healthy person using the concept of prevention and maintenance through diet, lifestyle modification, and rejuvenation.

Have you observed that during this pandemic some people get sicker, while others remain unaffected or affected to a lesser degree? This observation illustrates two important points – that the pathogenic factors require some essential favorable conditions to flourish and individuals are susceptible to the diseases to varying degrees. In the absence of such conditions or susceptibilities, an individual’s immune response can eradicate the disease, preserving and sustaining a balanced condition (homeostasis). Unless a seed is sown in fertile soil it will not propagate, just as fire in a fuel-less or air-less place cannot exist.

According to Ayurveda, one’s immunity is related to the health of one’s vital tissues and their essence known as OJAS. Ojas is our vital energy which pervades all tissues, cells, and spaces; it is the ultimate essence of all tissues combined and is the primary determinant of our immune status and hence our disease resistance.

A few Ayurvedic ways to Boost Immunity and Stay Healthy

  • A well-balanced diet (with all six tastes and qualities balanced), based on one’s dosha.
  • A regular yoga and pranayama (breathwork) practice.
  • Include a variety of herbs and spices into the daily dietary routine. Most spices are high in their ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity), and reduce cell damage and maintain the integrity
  • Detox plans like fasting or panchakarma cleanse, as and when needed.
  • Consumption of Rejuvenative (Rasayana) herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, Holy basil amla, and many more.
  • Regular practice of meditation.
  • Start the day with Tulsi, Pippali (fruit of long pepper), and ginger tea to strengthen and cleanse the upper respiratory tract.
  • Use turmeric and black pepper in daily meals, to boost immunity and reduce ama (toxins). Turmeric can be taken as a drink with almond milk or added to morning oats to prepare a nourishing golden porridge.
  • Minimize intake of animal food and avoid usage of heavily processed foods.

Disclaimer: This information does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have any questions, please see an experienced and authentic Ayurveda practitioner for proper guidance and an individualized treatment plan.

If you need support in this area, our Ayurveda and Wellness Specialist – Vd. Nitin Shah can work with you. Learn more.