Here's how you can build immunity in today’s challenging times with the help of Ayurveda

Once colder months are on ir way out, our immune system tends to be slightly weakened due to changes in wear and environment. It becomes very important to invest in building your immunity during this time.
Dr Lokesh Kumar Raturi, senior Ayurveda expert with Sri Sri Tattva shares simple practicable ways based on ancient science of Ayurvedic healing to keep your immune system fighting fit as we combat various hirto unseen strains of airborne viruses like Covid-19. 

Ramp up your immune system and help stave off dreed viral infections by integrating use of se powerful herbs prescribed in Ayurveda that can help build your all round immunity.

Amrut or Giloy

Amrut pacifies all three doshas (bio-energies in body and is refore safe for everyone to consume. An important Ayurvedic concept is Doshas that represent five great elements in nature that makeup matter. How se doshas manifest in an individual determines his/ her unique physiological and mental constitution called Prakruti.  

Giloy is one of most powerful immunomodulators that regulate immune system, which is why it is immensely useful in treating autoimmune conditions. root is known for its anti-stress, anti-leprotic and anti-malarial activities.  It is known to be a rich source of trace elements (zinc and copper) that act as antioxidants and protect cells from damaging effects of free ricals. One must continue ingesting herb over a long period of time to see cumulative effects.
 

Basil or Tulsi:

One of India’s most virtuous herbs has leapfrogged from orning front yards and delicate china cups to becoming one of most sought after herbs—and for good reason. Known as queen of herbs and elixir of life, Tulsi is a useful aptogen. aptogens are agents that help body cope with stress, enhance physical and mental health, and promote longevity. 

It is no surprise that Tulsi also features as one of main herbs that can help you build immunity. Tulsi also has a unique combination of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and or actions that combine to help body and mind apt and cope with a wide range of physical, emotional, chemical and infectious stresses. It works as an anti-inflammatory herb and promotes detoxification. It can modulate immune system and protect liver from environmental toxins. 

Amla:

In conversations around immunity-building foods today, home-grown amla is now a major contender. Indian Gooseberry is a superfood that comes packed with a world of nutrients.
It has high levels of Vitamin C, B-complex and carotene, along with macronutrients such as protein and carbohydrates. It is also rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus and sodium. It is a powerful antioxidant that is effective in reducing cell damage and free ricals that can cause diseases in body. Also, Amla doesn't lose its properties when processed, pulped or dried as much as or fruits do. Consuming an amla a day in any form is one of best things you could do for your immunity. A single tiny Amla is equivalent in vitamin C content to two oranges.

Turmeric and Pepper

One of reasons why turmeric is so freely sprinkled in all Indian dishes is because it is a nutritional powerhouse and a gift for our body’s immunity. Curcumin, present in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties. 

It's best to combine turmeric with a pinch of pepper, as curcumin shows increased bioavailability in presence of peperine, which is one of active compounds of black pepper.

Foods for immunity

You can have cheese or yoghurt for stronger gut immunity, along with black pepper, broccoli, sprouts, citrus fruits for better immunity. Avoid foods that are cold, sweet or heavily fried.

As more cases of Covid-19 (novel Corona) come to light, it is quite natural to feel anxious about quickly spreing virus across globe and in India. Governments and health ministries are stepping up to challenge and have alrey come up with various steps to increase effectiveness against viral infections. basic preventive measures include: 

• You are encouraged to wash your hands often (your hand is most common carrier of virus potentially because of common contact)
• Don’t touch your face again and again (eyes, nose & mouth specifically)
• Maintain social distance (lest you come directly in contact with someone who is displaying symptoms)
• Practice respiratory hygiene
• Most importantly, get yourself tested if you are experiencing any of symptoms or you have doubts.
• Stay hydrated
• Symptoms include dry cough, cold, fever and shortness of breath

(Credit-Karine Hanlon/ Unsplash)

Disclaimer: content provided above is in no way intended a substitute for professional medical vice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek vice of your physician or or qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, especially related to COVID-19.