How Ayurveda Helps in Improving Immunity

Immunity is an organism’s ability to prevent diseases. Generally, we have a weak immune system when we are born, and it gets stronger over time by interacting with microbes present inside and outside our body.

According to Ayurveda, diseases are classified as Nija and Aganthu in general. The diseases under Nija are caused by imbalances that originate inside the body, whereas diseases under Aganthu are caused by external factors such as injuries and lack of hygiene.

In Ayurveda, there are various concepts that explain immunity, and some of them include Bala, Vyadhi Kshamathwa, and Ojas. Bala is the concept of strength that describes the effective prevention of disease through a system’s ability to repair and nourish on its own. It is achieved by balancing bodily functions. Vyadhi Kshamathwa is the concept of resistance and describes the immune system’s ability to fight against pathogens. It explains the immune system’s functioning after contracting a pathogen. Ojas is the energy required by the body and mind that establishes a relationship between digestion and immunity. The presence of Ojas is necessary to prevent imbalances that could result in diseases.

Factors That Negatively Affect Immunity
An improper diet lacking the necessary nutrition or consuming processed sugars in excess can weaken immunity. Anorexia and other eating disorders too can cause nutritional imbalance and thus weak immunity.
Interrupted sleep, sleep deprivation, and irregular sleeping patterns affect immunity badly as well.
Obesity or excessive weight gain indicates metabolic imbalances and hormonal imbalances. Also, immunity is affected by being inactive and overweight.
Increased stress leads to a rise in blood cortisol levels, thus reducing the nourishment of the immune system.
Long-term use of medications like antibiotics can be harmful to the immune system.
Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system’s functioning against pathogens.
Inadequate water intake also can affect the effectiveness of the immune system in fighting against diseases.

Ayurvedic Factors That Aid in Enhancing Immunity
A well-balanced diet according to Ayurveda body types comprising all essential nutrients is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system.
Taking Rasayana herbs such as Amla, Guduchi, and Ashwagandha helps enhance immunity.
A diet incorporating spices can also be beneficial in improving immunity because of its high oxygen radical absorbance capacity that aids in reducing cell damage.
Practicing yoga daily helps boost immunity as well.
Ayurvedic treatments such as Navara Kizhi, Pizhichil, Panchakarma rejuvenates the body and assists in enhancing immunity.

Ayurvedic Remedies to Improve Immunity

Preparing and drinking a tea consisting of Tulsi, Pippali, and ginger is recommended. Further, it cleanses as well as strengthens the upper respiratory tract.
Drinking warm water and staying hydrated ensures moisture in the throat and mucous membranes, thus helping it function even better as a barrier to microbes.
Including turmeric and black pepper in daily meals increases immunity and reduces toxins.
Taking Amla juice or Chyawanprash daily helps strengthen immunity as well.
Avoiding processed meats and limiting red meat can help build immunity.
To put it simply, Ayurveda comes with a lot of ways to enhance immunity, and the ones listed above are just a few. However, consulting an experienced Ayurveda doctor before starting any ayurvedic treatments is highly recommended.