Immunity And Ayurveda
July 4th, 2007 by sanju
Publication: Ayurvedahc.com
Author: Tripti Sharma
Date: July 04, 2007
Most modern diseases are caused by prolonged exposure to a combination of faulty lifestyle, food habits and toxic environmental factors. Chronic stress has a vital role in immune disorders. There are two types of immunity which protects our body from any infection. These are Innate and Adaptive. Innate immunity - this type of immunity is present at birth and provides the first barrier against microorganisms which causes infections. Adaptive Immunity - it is the second barrier to infections and acquired later in life as - immunity after an immunization. The higher mortality rate is observed due to AIDS, it is the best example of immune disorders.
In Ayurved it is known as Byadhikshamata “OJA”, and described two types as Par and Apar Oja. ojas is the sara (essence) of dhatus ending with shukra dhatu (reproductive tissue). It is also known as bala (strength). This strength provides stability and nourishment of the muscle tissue. It is located in the hridaya (heart). Though it is located in the heart, it pervades all over the body and controls the working of the body.
Importance of ojas
By its loss, the autoimmune system becomes vulnerable to disease.
Ojas has two types:
Par: Located in the hridaya
Apar: located throughout the body
Appearance (Swaroopa) of ojas
It is viscous (unctuous and greasy)
Somatmaka (Preponderant in watery principle)
Clear (Transparent)
Slight reddish yellow in colour
Symptoms of Lack of Immunity
Recurrent infections
Lack of energy without any pathology
Easily trapped by diseases
Less power to fight against diseases
Easily tiered and over stressed
Root Causes
Microorganisms
Genetic
Virus
Faulty life style and food habits
Pollution
Stress
Metabolic disorders
Herbs that are useful in Immunity Disorder:
Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)
Amla , or Indian gooseberry, is a popular fruit cultivated in India that has long been valued for its rejuvenating properties, according to traditional Ayurveda. Preliminary evidence suggests that amla may help boost the immune response, presumably due to its vitamin C content.
Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)
The plant is used in Ayurvedic rasayanas to improve the immune system
and the body’s resistance to infections. The bitter principle present
shows antiperiodic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic
properties. Stem decoction for oral use. Giloy is helpful for counteracting infection and promoting resistance to illness. [Giloy is also called Guduchhi]
Aswagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is one of the main herbs for promoting ojas and rejuvenating the body. It is a well known semen promoter and it treats impotency and infertility. It increases physical endurance and improves sexual function. The strong anti stress properties include both mental and physical stress and exhaustion. Furthermore, this test indicates the low order of toxicity of the plant, supporting the Ayurvedic view that it is safe for long-term consumption. It has also exhibited antibacterial and antifungal activities in a raw or unprocessed state and it has antibiotic effects. It is used in many general tonics and preparations, such as Chyavan Prash
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
It is used in Ayurveda for skin disorders, pimples, diabetes, tumours, obesity, arthritis, viral fevers, jaundice and as a blood purifier. In order to increase immunity of the body, neem leaves are also taken internally in the form of neem capsules or made into a tea. The tea is traditionally taken internally to reduce fever caused by malaria. This tea is extremely bitter. It is also used to soak feet for treating various foot fungi. It has also been reported to work against termites. In Ayurveda, neem leaves are used in curing neuromuscular pains. Chewing of 8-10 neem leaves early in the morning for twenty-four days protects the body from diseases like diabetes and hypertension. The body also becomes immune to skin problems by this medication.
Diet that helps :
Patients should drink fresh water, milk , buttermilk, sugar cane juice and easily digestible foods.
Lifestyle
One should follow his own conscience & follow the right path. The following natural urges should not be suppressed: passing of flatus, defecation, urination, sneezing, weeping, vomiting, breathing when fatigued, thirst, hunger, sleep and coitus.
Yoga
Shirshasan
Sarvangasana
Meditation
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