Immunity-Boosting Guidelines by Ministry of AYUSH

The world has seen several pandemics that have cost human life and dismantled their normal lives. While that’s what we read in our history or geography classes, the world is suffering from a pandemic this very moment. We are living amidst a crisis that doesn’t seem to have an end anytime soon. All of us are locked in our homes, trying to establish normalcy when the world outside is in a shamble. There is no cure or vaccine for COVID-19. Health ministries and doctors have advised people to take up precautions to risk the chances of catching this virus.

Keeping the idea of “precaution is better than cure” in mind, the Ministry of AYUSH had earlier released self-care guidelines for preventive health measures and boosting immunity. These ideas are verified and supported by Ayurvedic literature and scientific publications. These health measures were recommended by notable and esteemed Vaidyas from all over the country.

The recommended measures are divided into four sections such as General measures, ayurvedic immunity promoting measures, simple ayurvedic procedures and remedies that can be taken up to treat the symptoms such as dry cough/sore throat. These measures are not a cure for COVID-19 instead they are just preventive health measures to boost our immunity against the infection.

General measures include drinking water throughout the day, using spices like Haldi (Turmeric), Dhaniya (Coriander), Jeera (Cumin) and Lahsun (Garlic) while cooking. Practicing Yogasana, Pranayama, and meditation for at least 30 mins is also advised.

Ayurvedic immunity promoting measures consist of eating Chyavanprash (10 gm) every morning. A diabetic patient should consume sugar-free Chyavanprash. Drinking herbal tea or a concoction (Kadha) made from Tulsi (Basil), Dalchini (Cinnamon), Kalimirch (Black pepper), Shunthi (Dry ginger) and Munnaka (Raisin). You can also add jaggery or fresh lemon juice for your taste. This concoction can be taken once or twice a day. It is also suggested to drink Golden milk one or twice a day. Add half teaspoon Haldi (Turmeric) powder in 150ml hot milk.

The third recommended measure is simple ayurvedic procedures that suggest nasal application which means applying sesame oil, ghee or coconut oil in both your nostrils in the morning and evening. The second procedure is oil pulling therapy. In this, take one tablespoon sesame or coconut oil in the mouth. Swish it in the mouth for 2-3 mins and spit it off. Rinse your mouth with warm water. This can be done once or twice a day.

The last remedy is for dry cough or sore throat. Practicing steam inhalation with Pudina (Mint) or Ajwain (Caraway seeds) and mixing Lavang (Clove) powder with natural sugar or honey can be taken 2-3 times a day. If these symptoms persist for a long time, it is advised to visit a doctor.

Footnote

These remedies or recommendations are just precautions that can boost your immunity. COVID-19 has no cure available but practicing these procedures increases your chances of building a healthy and strong immune system against the virus.