Today, while addressing the nation, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had announced the extension of lockdown period till May 3, 2020, and had urged the nation to continue the fight against the global pandemic coronavirus disease. PM had also asked the people of the country to enhance their body’s immunity, by following the measures issued by the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy).
We all know that prevention is better than cure, it will be good to take preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times. While there is no medicine to combat COVID 19, but we can boost our immunity in these times. Ayurveda, being the science of life, propagates the gifts of nature in maintaining a healthy and happy living. Ayurveda’s extensive knowledge base on preventive care derives from the concepts of “Dinacharya” – daily regimes and “Ritucharya” – seasonal regimes to maintain a healthy life. It is mainly a plant-based science.
Boost your immunity with a few simple steps
- Drink warm water daily.
- Practice Yogasana, Pranayama and meditation for at least 30 minutes every day.
- Make sure you add spices like Haldi (turmeric), Jeera (cumin), Dhaniya (coriander) and Lahsun (garlic) to your food while cooking.
Ayurvedic Immunity Boosting Techniques
As per the guidelines issued by the Ministry of AYUSH, the following steps can be performed to boost their immunity.
- Take 1 tablespoon full of Chyavanprash every morning.
- Drink herbal tea made from Tulsi (Basil), Dalchini (Cinnamon), Kalimirch (Black pepper), Shunthi (Dry Ginger) and Munakka (Raisin) – once or twice a day. You may add jaggery (natural sugar) and/or fresh lemon juice to taste.
- Drink warm milk by adding a half teaspoon of Haldi (turmeric) powder – once or twice a day.
- Apply sesame oil or coconut oil or Ghee in both the nostrils in morning and evening.
- Take 1 tablespoon sesame or coconut oil in the mouth. Do not drink, Swish in the mouth for 2 to 3 minutes and spit it off followed by a warm water rinse. This can be done once or twice a day.
Remedies for dry cough and sore throat
- Steam inhalation with fresh Pudina (Mint) leaves or Ajwain (Caraway seeds) can be practised once in a day.
- Lavang (Clove) powder mixed with natural sugar/honey can be taken 2-3 times a day in case of cough or throat irritation.
The advisory also states that these remedies are to treat normal dry cough and sore throat. However, if the symptoms persist then, you should consult a doctor.