Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of India, has a huge potential in preventive and curative healthcare. Covid pandemic has ushered in an era of renaissance in which enhancing immunity has been projected as the utmost strategy to combat the disease. Ayurveda, since times immemorial has emphasised more on body’s response and occurrence of disease occurs only if the immunity is reduced. In Ayurveda, immunity is referred to as vyadhikshamatva – the word vyadhi meaning is to harm, to injure, to damage, or to hurt. The word kshamatva means to compose, to suppress anger or to keep quiet or to resist. Immunity cannot be enhanced overnight. Daily regimen (dincharya) including a balanced and healthy dietary intake, adequate physical activity and good sleep contributes to immunity. Ayurveda has depicted various rules and regimens (charya), regarding diet, lifestyle and behaviour to keep the body and mind in a balanced, healthy state. In this blog, we’re going to tell you about some foods to eat during Covid-19 and otherwise, that can help boost your immune system from within.
Foods to eat during Covid-19
Amla: Amla or Indian Gooseberry is also known as a “superfood” for its abundant health properties. In Ayurveda, it is known as rasayana, herbs or ingredients that help in the maintenance and promotion of good health. A rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants, amla acts as a detoxifying agent for the body. It helps purify the blood from within, aid in the battle against free radicals and serves as a barrier against pathogens. Its regular consumption is not only beneficial for your immune system but for your eyes, digestion, hair and skin health and overall wellness. You may try Amla Juice to receive its maximum health benefits.
Ghee – Ghee is used in Ayurveda for both medicinal and culinary purposes. More than merely curing or protecting us from several illnesses, ghee aids in balancing the vata and pitta doshas in the body. Ghee nourishes the body internally and rejuvenates the body tissues. Butyric acid found naturally in ghee helps in boosting the immune system. Ghee is one such ghee, which is made from the highest quality A2 milk from Gir cows. It contains optimal amounts of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which aid in the protection of the brain, heart, gut, and eyes, as well as improve immune function naturally.
Turmeric – As children, whenever we would fall ill or would suffer from some injury, our grandparents would tell us to drink haldi wala dudh (turmeric milk), a common, trusted home remedy. This is because turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which help fasten the healing process. It assists in preventing the progression of illnesses in the body by increasing the body’s natural healing capacity and boosting the immune system from within. Additionally, its tridosha balancing characteristics increase the body’s natural healing capacity.
Chyawanprash – Ayurveda being a 5000-year old medicine system offers the best remedies and solutions to strengthen the immune system. Chyawanprash is a traditional, Ayurvedic formulation, curated by Rishi Charaka using 40+ immunity herbs. In order to boost the immunity of individuals of all age groups from children to the elderly, Jiva Chyawanprash was introduced to the market. Representing 30 years of Ayurvedic excellence and expertise, Jiva has also introduced Jiva Sugar Free Chyawanprash catering to the specific needs of individuals who are diabetic or are on a low-calorie diet.
Regular consumption of these foods can boost your immune system from within. However, it is advised to consult a doctor for the recommended doses if you’re taking them in the form of health supplements. For e.g. one can have 1-2 seasonal natural amlas per day in the form of juice or raw. One should not exceed the recommended doses of Turmeric Capsules. Pregnant ladies and children below 12 years of age should consult a doctor before taking them.
