1 Jan 2020 HYN Himalayan Yoga Academy
The word Ayurveda comes from the Sanskrit terms “Ayur,” meaning “life,” and “Veda,” meaning “science,” together forming the “science of life.” Ayurveda developed when Sanskrit was the spoken language in ancient India. This ancient knowledge, along with practices like yoga, is found in the sacred Hindu scriptures known as the Vedas. The four main Vedas are the Rig Veda, Sam Veda, Yajur Veda, and Atharva Veda. Below, we will explore how Ayurvedic medicine can improve immunity.
Ayurveda and Yoga are sister sciences of the Indian Vedic Tradition known as Sanatana Dharma, paths to the eternal truth. The teachings are considered timeless because they apply to everyone, across all cultures and eras. Practicing the lifestyles they recommend makes life more fulfilling. It leads you to specific Classical Yoga practices that can bring lasting changes to your health, lifestyle, and overall perspective on life’s purpose. Ayurveda, as a life science, promotes intrinsic and holistic healing through various sacred techniques, natural herbs and medicines, massages, and routine practices.
Ayurveda primarily focuses on natural healing processes for a wide range of ailments and illnesses. One of its most common benefits is boosting immunity through various methods. Ayurveda uses natural herbs that help the body combat foreign elements. So various ayurvedic medicine or herbs that helps boost your immunity or ayurvedic medicine to improve immunity are as follows:
- Turmeric
Turmeric, known as Haldi in India, is a powerful condiment used in almost all Indian dishes. The wild form of turmeric is dried, pounded into powder, and used as a spice to add color and medicinal benefits to food. Turmeric is also applied externally to heal wounds. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it boosts the immune system and aids in healing. A paste made from Haldi and mustard oil is applied to cuts or wounds, helping them heal and close faster. You can mix turmeric with warm milk or tea to promote internal healing of wounds and ailments. Consuming turmeric daily strengthens immunity in numerous ways, making it a super condiment. - Amla
Amla, also known as gooseberry, effectively balances all three doshas in the body. In India, people consume amla in various forms, including raw, pickled, sweet pickled, and murabba. Amla revitalizes the body and promotes youthfulness. It aids digestion, boosts metabolism, improves liver function, and helps regulate hormones. - Licorice
The root of mulethi, also known as licorice, boosts the levels of a chemical called interferon, which helps prevent the proliferation of pathogens in the body. This herb is commonly used in Ayurvedic diets to balance the pitta dosha. It prevents bacterial growth and relieves chronic fatigue. Mulethi can be consumed as a brew, and when combined with tea leaves, it creates a powerful medicinal drink for the body. - Ashwagandha
Stress is one of the major causes of weak immunity. Ashwagandha is an excellent herb that calms the nerves and balances the Vata dosha. By reducing stress, it helps strengthen the immune system. - Tulsi
Tulsi, known as the queen of herbs in Ayurveda, is highly revered in Indian households, where it is planted in a special vase and prayed to daily. Every part of this plant has medicinal properties. It treats various respiratory diseases such as asthma, the common cold, cough, and sinus issues. It also regulates blood sugar levels and prevents the growth of cancerous cells. Simply brewing a few Tulsi leaves or stems in tea creates a powerful medicinal concoction. - Neem
People widely recognize the neem tree for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and anticancer properties. These benefits have earned it the title of the “miracle tree.” Chewing 10-15 neem leaves or drinking juice made from its leaves directly combats bacteria, viruses, illnesses, fungal infections, and even cancer. In Indian households, people also use neem tree stems to brush their teeth, as they strengthen teeth and protect against bacteria and plaque. - Satavari
Satavari is an herb widely used to rejuvenate organs and vital body parts. Women, in particular, use it after childbirth to restore their body and energy levels, as well as to support healthy breast milk production. This herb also promotes faster recovery of organs and injuries.