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Aspects of Building Immunity, as per Ayurveda

Boosting your immunity is a lifestyle change. As per Ayurveda, Sri Sri Tattva’s Dr. Sharika says, there are four aspects of building one’s resistance towards infections and ailments.

1. Rasayana: Rasayana works towards improving our health physically & rejuvenating our entire physiology. Here are a few herbs as per Ayurveda that can be an excellent Rasayana for your immunity, physically.
   
   
2. Turmeric and Pepper: Ayurveda has extolled the benefits of turmeric for a while now. With its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties, this all-encompassing spice is now widely used as an immunity builder. Dr. Sharika adds, “It’s best to add a pinch of pepper, as curcumin shows increased bioavailability in the presence of piperine, which is one of the active compounds of black pepper.”
   
   
3. Amruth or Giloy: This Ayurvedic root, more commonly known as ‘Divine Nectar’, is a powerhouse of antioxidants that fight free radicals, keep your cells healthy and get rid of diseases. Giloy helps remove toxins, purifies blood, fights bacteria that cause diseases. “Giloy is antipyretic in nature and it can reduce signs and symptoms of several life-threatening viruses”, says Dr. Sharika.
   
   
4. Tulasi: Tulasi’s healing properties have been the most treasured knowledge across the world. Dr. Sharika says, “Tulasi has the ability to help fight free radical damage while protecting DNA structure and cells.”
   
   
5. Amla: The 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 macro elements 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 radicals that can cause diseases in the body. It is said in Ayurveda that with a strong mind, even serious diseases can be fought. While the various herbs mentioned help in this regard, it will go a long way for you to back your body, and look at other means of developing a strong mind. The effortlessness of Meditation and the dynamism of Pranayama and various breathing techniques making for a strong support system, especially in the time of crisis.
   
   
6.  Vyayama (Exercise) is a tried & tested way to increase your immunity.  Owing to the scare of spreading, if you are not enthused at the idea of sharing equipment or space with people at Gym, you could venture into Yoga, with Sun Salutation (a set of 12 asanas that provide a whole body workout).
   
   
7. Agni: Metabolism and digestive fire: A weak Agni (weak digestive fire) and ama (the unwanted by-products of digestion and metabolism, accumulated in the body) usually is the root cause of disease genesis. Thus restoring the same is also imperative to wellness.
   
   
8. Satya (Suitability) Eating food that you grew up with can promote a far more sustainable and healthier way of living. Also, being aligned to the environment that you are living in, boosts your immunity. Allow the many staples of regional Indian diets to join in on your march towards a healthier you. Listening to your body & working in tandem with it helps increase your immunity.