In recent times we have all found ourselves asking “How to improve our immunity?”   We human beings are born with a basic immune system that is weak and through constant interaction with the microbes in our environment, and within our gut, we learn to fight against new microbes, which helps to strengthen the immune system.

In the last 40 years or so, even though our overall lifespan has increased, we have been exposed to excessive microbicidal use in the name of hygiene and lack of constant interaction with plants, soil and other organisms has gradually made our immune system weaker. Immunity, as we understand it through modern medicine, is the function of certain cells, enzymes and immunomodulatory chemicals that attack pathogens and prevent them from creating diseases. The concept of invasion from microorganisms and a biological defence system against it led to the development of the range of antibiotics and vaccines in the 20th century.

Various developments in the last decade, like the emergence of auto-immune issues, widespread antibiotic resistance in microbes, and wider understanding of friendly bacteria and its functions, especially inside our gut, have forced us to rethink the unidirectional concept of the immune system.

In Ayurveda, diseases are broadly classified as : Nija diseases are those which are caused by an imbalance that has originated within one’s body and can be mostly prevented by understanding one’s natural tendencies. Aganthu is caused by an external factor, which can include both physical and mental trauma, and lack of focused health and hygiene policies within a particular society.

Mind and its effect on immunity

For a comprehensive concept of immunity, we should understand three concepts mentioned in Ayurveda.

Bala – the concept of strength

Vyadhi Kshamathwa – the concept of resistance to illness development

Ojas – the concept of supreme resilience.

The concept of Bala explains the ability of the system to repair and nourish itself and be effective in disease prevention,Bala is a product of the overall balance of body functions, tissues, digestion and elimination, whereas Vyadhi Kshamatwa is the ability of the immune system to fight against the disease-causing pathogens. It purely denotes the function of our immune system and recovery after coming in contact with pathogenic organisms. Ojas explains the direct correlation between digestion and immunity. It is the final product of physiological transformation happening in our body as part of tissue nourishment. Ojas is considered as the essence of the food we consume, and a healthy level of Ojas indicates proper tissue nourishment. The function of Ojas is not just explained as resistance to disease but it is resilience to any form of unfavorable physical, mental or environmental change. 

The Ayurvedic concept of Ojas explains the impact of immunity caused by excessive anger, craving, worry, sadness, and exertion. This interconnected understanding of digestion, mind, and immunity in Ayurveda helps us develop natural remedies that influence all three positively. After all, the ability to withstand change can only be developed by maintaining a state of equilibrium in the body, mind and soul.

Factors that act negatively on our Immunity

1. A nutritionally imbalanced diet, excess intake of processed sugars, preservatives and junk food is known to weaken the immune system.
2. Regular alcohol intake can weaken immune systems effectiveness against common pathogens and reduce resistance and recovery from illness.
3. Irregular sleep patterns, lack of sleep or interrupted sleep can affect the immune system of the body.
4. High stress levels increase the cortisol level in blood reducing the focus on immune system nourishment.
5. Excess weight gain can itself be an indicator of an imbalance in metabolism and hormonal functions.
6. Long term use of antibiotics and certain other medications are also proven to be detrimental for immunity
7. Not having enough liquid intake can reduce the effectiveness of the body’s resistance mechanism.

As per Ayurveda, following are some ways in which you can boost your immunity:

Ayurvedic concoctions

Indian households are no stranger to Kadha -an Ayurvedic concoction made by mixing various herbs and spices which are boiled in water for over ten minutes so that all the medicinal benefits of these herbs could be extracted. Kadha is a popular home remedy during cold and dry seasons and can help boost immunity.

Dhruv Ayu Care brings to you Avarodhak Kadha a  finely blended concoction of  Tulsi, Ajmo, neem, galo, Ginger, phudino, Taj, Mari, long which naturally helps you boost the immune system

Meditation and yoga

Yoga and meditating on a daily basis can help in reducing both physical and mental stresses. By practicing daily you can master the art of yoga and meditation.

For meditation, you can start by sitting in a comfortable place and meditating for at least 10 minutes daily. You can practice yoga asanas such as savasana, sukhasana and siddhasana for 20 minutes a day, two to three times a week to maintain your nervous and endocrine systems. You should also practice pranayama every day to calm your mind. 

Basic ayurvedic procedures

Practicing procedures such as Pratimarsh Nasya where you have to apply sesame oil, coconut oil or ghee in both the nostrils in the morning and evening. This simple procedure prevents respiratory allergies, improves eye health and relieves fatigue.

Another procedure is oil pulling therapy, where you have to put one tablespoon sesame or coconut oil in your mouth and swish with it for 2 to 3 minutes, then spit it out. Rinse your mouth with warm water after and practice this therapy once or twice a day. Oil pulling helps to pull out the toxins from the body.

Ayurvedic herbs

To improve immunity there are many medicinal herbs which have also been mentioned in Ayurveda. Some of these herbs are:

1. Kalmegh: Kalmegh is a bitter-tasting plant leaf which has high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This herb is known to help fight cold, flu and other upper respiratory tract infections.
2. Guduchi Giloy: Guduchi Giloy possesses anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Giloy is also considered a natural fever suppressant which also reduces the stress and anxiety levels.
3. Chirata: Chirata is a common Ayurvedic herb which is considered to have strong anti-asthmatic and expectorant properties. Chirata is helpful in getting rid of chest congestion.

Apart from the natural remedies Dhruv Ayu Care brings you ayurvedic supplements developed from natural extracts. Our Panchamrut is a potent immunity booster consisting of Cow Ghee, Kesar, Ajmo, Tulsi, Ginger,Ashwagandha. Our other product Raksha Tulsi Drops  unique formulation infused with the goodness of pure tulsi plant extracts which helps in developing the immune system along with added benefits for skin, joints.