6 Ayurvedic Concepts That Boost Immunity
Published Date: 10/2/2021 2:48:12 AM
The vital essence of all body tissues is called “Ojas.” According to the principles of Ayurveda, Ojas is believed to be responsible for the overall health, well-being, intelligence, immunity, and thought-process of humans. According to the concept of Immunity - "Vyadhikshamatva" or "Bala" or "Ojas", the body’s resistance is not only important for disease prevention but also for a speedy recovery from illness. Through ancient times, Acharyas promoted the use of "Rasayana" (Rejuvenation) to enhance the "Ojas". "Rasayanas" are rejuvenating agents that produce resistance against diseases, both physically and mentally, thus improving overall health. The uses of different types of Ojas-promoting Medicinal Plants have been described in Ayurveda. These can be quite helpful in improving overall immunity.
Ayurvedic Medicine:
1) Tulsi (Holy Basil) Powder
2) 1 Booster Capsule
3) Jeevan Shakti Avaleha
Some of the herbs described in Ayurvedic literature which help to boost our immunity are as follows:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
"Ashwagandha" is a medicinal herb, acts as an adaptogen that reduces stress, boosts brain function, lowers blood sugar, builds muscle mass, balances cortisol levels, improves sleep, increases male fertility, and reduces anxiety and depression. Ashwagandha is a shrub that grows in India and North Africa and is also called "Indian Ginseng" and "Winter cherry". Ashwagandha is a combination of the Sanskrit words "Ashva", meaning horse, and "Gandha", meaning smell. This not only refers to the smell of the root but also alludes to the aphrodisiac properties of the root extract, similar to the strength of a horse. It is one of the most revered ayurvedic herbs and tonic.
Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
"Liquorice" or "Yashtimadhu" also known as Mulethi, is an excellent home remedy for a number of disorders like cough and cold. According to Ayurveda, mulethi is sweet to taste, it’s slimy and heavy, and is efficacious in treating Vata disorders. Glycyrrhizin - a saponin found in mulethi is known for its anti-microbial action. The root is powdered and had with honey and ghee to improve immunity. It is believed to be a natural revitalizer and anti-ageing agent. Some studies have also shown the positive effect of mulethi in relation to brain function.
Amla (Emblica officinalis)
"Amla" is perhaps one of the richest sources of vitamin C and is perfect for overall immunity, as it can rejuvenate and revitalise the body systems. Amla is cooling in nature and can help remove excess body heat, thus often recommended in pitta conditions. It is also helpful in afflictions of the gastrointestinal tract. Amla is also believed to stimulate the regeneration of red blood cells and help improve haemoglobin content in the body. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help soothe joint pains. Amla is often used in powder form but is also available as tablets or liquid extracts. It is best to consume amla in raw form. Amla powder can be consumed by mixing with honey, twice a day. Chyawanprash is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation that can be taken to reduce mental and physical fatigue and boost immunity also contains amla.
Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)
"Ginger" is hot in potency and thus aids in decreasing the aggravated Vata and Kapha doshas. Ginger is very versatile – it can be had fresh, powdered or oil form or in dry candied/ juice form. Dry ginger powder mixed with sesame oil is used to relieve joint or muscle pains. It is also used for hot fomentation in gout, oedema, arthritis or other joint pains. Anti-microbial compounds in ginger help fight infections, and boost immunity levels. Ginger is also recommended for many respiratory ailments like cold, cough, pneumonia, asthma and bronchitis.
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
"Tulsi" is used for its medicinal purposes, due to its anti-infective properties and its use in respiratory tract infections like cough, cold, sore throat, asthma etc. It helps remove excess Kapha from the lungs. This natural stimulant energizes our body, increases circulation, and has been proven to be beneficial in skin diseases and ulcers. Fresh tulsi juice taken twice a day may help to boost health. Adding a few drops of ginger and honey to tulsi juice may help further improve immunity.
Mudra For Better Immunity
Hands:
Use both hands for this mudra, with both hands making different mudras.
Time:
10 minutes, 4x a day, 7 minutes interval
In Acute Cases:
15 minutes, 6x a day, 8 minutes interval
This mudra will support our memory. Depending on the situation, the holding time of the mudra will change too. That is, if already suffering from some kind of memory problems, the holding time will increase, as indicated above.