The ayurvedic theory of immunity is based on the concept of inherited reserve and acquired reserve. In the ayurveda texts it is literally known as ‘ vyadhi – kshmatva or ‘ self avoidance of disease ‘
Ayurveda has from ages understood and interpreted the deep rooted connection between the mind and body
The classical texts of ayurveda has defined ‘ immunity ( bala) ‘as the ability of the body to prevent and arrest the progression of disease for maintaining homeostasis
Ayurvedic preparations have been anecdotally associated with immune boosting effect in both healthy and sick individuals particularly via enhancement in natural killer cells and t helper cells
The classification of immune system in ayurveda into sahaja ( innate ), kalaja ( chronobiologic ) and yukthi krut ( accuired ) closely resembling the modern medical classification of immune system and ayurvedic immunity boosting preparations such as chywanaprasham which have stood the test of time are testament to the nearly accurate understanding of our body’s immune system by the ancient ayurvedic pioneers
A proper immune system is a difficult and a sophisticated balancing act
Maintaining the equilibrium of doshas and boosting up the immunity by following ayurveda ensures a optimally functioning immune system which in turn helps in prevention of diseases
Maintaining good immunity means ensuring that all components of your immune system are at their optimal levels
The immune system does not function in isolation. Your immunity power depends on your digestive health as well and your state of mind. Ayurveda says that one must eat the right food at the right time in the right quantity to keep the digestive system in good order
Ayurveda also recommends meditation, yoga, and other activities which relieves mental stress which is a major cause of weakened immunity
Sufficient sleep of atleast 7 hours each night, plant based diets, fruits, vegetables, fibres, antioxidants, essential nutrients, probiotics, ayurvedic ghee, olive oil etc will help increase immunity
Daily exercise or activity for atleast 45 minutes, staying hydrated, drinking fluids to flush out toxins, adding herbs and plants like moringa, neem, ashwagandha, turmeric etc helps to maintain and enhance immunity level
