In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, people around the globe are suffering. Enhancing the body’s natural defence system plays an important role in maintaining optimum health. We all know prevention is better than cure. While there is no cure for COVID-19 as of now, it will be good if we take preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times.
Ayurveda is the science of life, it propagates the gifts of nature and help in maintaining a healthy and happy living. Ayurveda’s extensive knowledge base on preventive care derives from the concepts of daily regimes and seasonal regimes to maintain a 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 emphasised across Ayurveda’s classical scriptures.
Factors that affect your Immunity adversely:
Imbalanced diet - A diet that is not nutritionally balanced and supportive to dosha balance. Excess intake of processed sugars and additives for artificial flavouring is known to weaken the immune system.
Excessive alcohol intake - Physicians are already aware of the impact of alcohol on resistance and recovery from illness. Researches have also shown that regular alcohol intake can weaken immune systems effectiveness against common pathogens.
High stress - increases the cortisol level in blood reducing the focus on immune system nourishment.
Irregular sleep - Constantly varying sleep patterns, lack of sleep or interrupted sleep.
Dehydration - Various studies have shown that not having enough liquid intake can reduce our effectiveness of the body’s resistance mechanism
Obesity - Excess weight gain can itself be an indicator of an imbalance in metabolism and hormonal functions. Lack of exercise and Its negative effect of immunity is also well researched.
Some ayurvedic remedies for improving immunity.
Start your day with Tulsi, lemon, black pepper and ginger tea to strengthen and cleanse the upper respiratory tract.
Use turmeric and black pepper in the meals daily to boost your immunity and reduce toxins. Turmeric can be taken as a drink with almond milk or added to morning oats to prepare a nourishing golden porridge.
Spices like cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, garlic, coriander, clove and cumin should be added during cooking.
Minimize the intake of red meat and avoid having processed foods.
Take 15ml of Amla juice daily. You could also take Chyavanprash in the morning to supply antioxidants and strengthen the immune system.
Drink plenty of water (preferably warm water). Staying well hydrated will keep the throat and mucous membranes moist, which will act as a good barrier to all microbes.
For good immunity, a regular exercise or yoga practice is a must and proper recovery to your body, in order to give it a chance to strengthen its resistant forces.
Allow yourself space and time for meditative reflection, inner contemplation and pranayama breathing techniques.
Most importantly, always maintain good personal hygiene, eat seasonal fruits and vegetables and be stress-free.