Ayurveda, the ancient science of life and the traditional system of medicine of ancient India is believed to be prevalent for the last 5000 years. Ayurveda suggests that the human body is composed of Panchamahabhuta or 5 universal elements.
What Are The Panchamahabhuta?
The Panchamahabhuta include Jal (Water), Agni (Fire), Vayu (Air), Prithvi (Earth), Aakash (Space). Ayurveda states that these divine elements could treat any impairment present in the human body. The reason? Because they are found entirely in nature.
Ayurveda has explained immunity as Vyadhikshamatvam. The Vyadhikshamatvam (Immunity) concept is described in Charaka Samhita as the eternal strength within our bodies that resists illness and diseases. Vyadhi means Illness/ Disease/ Hurt, and kshamatvam means To resist.
On the other hand, the modern concept of immunity states that it is the tendency of the body to resist illness caused by pathogens. It is broadly based in line with the ayurvedic understanding of immunity and disease.
How Does Ayurveda Improve Immunity?
In Ayurveda, it is believed that Yuktikrutubala (acquired immunity) could be enhanced by following a balanced diet and exercising. Furthermore, the ancient Indian medicinal system also recommends immunomodulators (Rasayana) to supplement daily dietary needs.
Thus, immunity booster Ayurvedic products are enriched in immunomodulators and work by enhancing the core strength of immunity. the body's natural strength of resisting disease-causing pathogens rather than neutralising the causative agents (pathogens).
Best Ayurvedic Immunomodulators That You Can Find In Your Kitchen
Indian kitchens are filled with immunity booster products in Ayurveda that make food delicious. That said, studies have proved that Indian spices play a vital role in fortifying immunity. Let's take a look at these potent Ayurvedic spices.
1. Turmeric (Haldi)
Turmeric can be found in every kitchen in the Indian subcontinent. It adds a yellow colour and delicious taste to food. According to researchers, turmeric is rich in curcumin. Curcumin is a yellow coloured pigment and a potent immunomodulator.
There are other benefits to turmeric as it is known to protect the body from various heart and respiratory diseases like atherosclerosis and asthma. In addition, studies have unravelled certain anti-cancer properties that this yellow spice contains.
2. Ginger (Adrak)
Mostly used in tea, ginger has many medicinal benefits. It is a great antimicrobial agent and helps in relieving cough and fever. It also promotes your immune system to fight back diseases. Hence many Ayurvedic immunity-boosting products contain ginger as an ingredient.
3. Garlic (Lehsoon)
Garlic is useful in managing many health issues, and it is known for enhancing immunity. It contains compounds that stimulate immune cells and boost immune response towards invading pathogens and also prevent inflammation. Regular consumption of garlic helps in preventing cardiovascular disorders by increasing lipid metabolism.
4. Holy Basil (Tulsi)
As per Indian mythology, tulsi is known to have spiritual importance, while Ayurveda mentioned tulsi as an elixir of life. Tulsi has certain compounds that promote resilience and well being of body. It also has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal antiseptic properties thus an immunity booster. Ayurveda depicted tulsi as a tonic to body, mind, and spirit.
5. Black Pepper (Kali Mirch)
Pepper helps in digestion and boosts immunity naturally. It is a rich source of vitamin C and works as an antimicrobial antibiotic agent. That's why it is commonly used in Ayurvedic immunity booster products like kadha.
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