Ayurveda – A Boon For Mankind
In Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “The Science of Life.” It is also often called the “Mother of all Healing.” In the West, Homeopathy and Polarity Therapy have their roots in Ayurveda.
Through the use of herbs and a balanced diet and lifestyle, Ayurveda works wonders. According to Ayurvedic philosophy the entire cosmos is an interplay of the energies of the five great elements—Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth.
The coronavirus pandemic has turned the world’s attention to the immune system, so the world went behind every possibility to have an effective defense against it. There comes the importance of Ayurveda, a life science which we have been practicing for thousands of years. “The prime aim of Ayurveda is to maintain the normalcy of our body that is the healthy state and if it diverts, bringing back to the normalcy. When it is found that maintenance of normalcy is none other than the defense we are looking for, a phenomenal increase in the demand for Ayurveda came. In India, several initiatives have been taken to utilise the vast potential of Ayurveda in this pandemic. The several treatment options available for enhancing immunity against respiratory illnesses which varies according to the severity of illness are Nasya (Errhine therapy), Kashaya (Herbal decoctions), Rasayana (immunomodulators/rejuvenators), Swedana (Steam inhalation), Gargling with medicated water etc. Ayurveda plays a major role not only for treatment of diseases, but also for preventive & promotive health care which the humans need the most,” said Dr Jubil P Anil, BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery), Ayurvedmed, Bangalore.
Stressing upon how important a strong immune system is necessary during the Covid-19 pandemic Dr Jubil P Anil summarized a note of how the different aspects of Ayurveda are beneficial to mankind.
Suraj Varma – Ayurvedic Holistic Therapist, stated that, “Ayurveda - “the science of life” is an ancient medical system with its roots based in the Indus Valley culture thousands of years ago. To maintain the quality and longevity of human life, is important to regularly practice the disciplines of Ayurveda. During the Covid pandemic, there should be extra attention given to boosting our Ojas (immune system or vitality) to fight any kind of infections or illnesses.
For building up Ojas it’s important to strengthen the Agni (digestive power) with a daily healthy diet, consume food that is nutritious and easily digested, also follow a lifestyle routine that promotes de-stressing.” One of the healthiest Ayurvedic herbal tonics can be easily made at home. Just mix turmeric, cumin seeds, black pepper, lemon, coriander, ginger and a pinch of salt, chop or grate the ingredients into a saucepan and boil with half a liter of water. Another simple but effective at-home Ayurvedic remedy is steam inhalation using a few drops of essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, mint or camphor added to steaming water and inhaled, to reduce the chances of infection inside the throat and sinus area.”
The importance of Ayurveda is explained by these experts in this field who believe in it as a prevention and cure for a plethora of diseases.
Dr. Deepika Ganju Gunawant, MD(AY), Senior Consultant - Max Multispecialty Centre Panchsheel, New Delhi says that “Ayurvedic approach – is experiencing a renaissance after the pandemic in 2020 as the understanding of the mind and body relationship has grown and the global population has spent time learning about immunity and personalised health for immune support. The aim of Ayurveda is not only to support health – ‘Swasthasya Swasthya rakshanam’ increase immunity and resistance but to cure diseases - “Aturasya Vyadhi parimokshah” - giving relief to patients from illness. The hallmark of Ayurvedic principles of treatment and practices take into account all of the following -
· Ahara (Diet and Food)
· Nidra (Good quality sleep)
· Dinacharya (Daily routine)
· Sadvritta (Good moral and ethical Conduct)
· Nidan parivarjan (elimination of causative factors)
· Meditation (Focused attention or state of awareness)
· Mental health (mental well-being)
Most formulations used for the management of various disorders in Ayurveda are already enriched additionally with an immune modulator or Rasayana, clearly reflecting on the comprehensive approach to treatment."
On a conclusive note we can say that Ayurveda is like a weapon against the Covid-19 pandemic as its natural essence and even ability to cure many diseases, is truly beneficial. People have become more aware of this science of life, and are resorting to follow it to have a good immune system and a lifestyle which will not only bring good physical health, but sound mental health as well.
