Abstract

AYURVEDA FOR IMMUNITY

Dr. Shikha Yadav*, Dr. Smriti Pandey and Dr. Suresh Kumar

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Abstract

Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of india, has a huge potential in preventive and curative healthcare. Ayurveda has always emphasized on enhancing the body’s overall natural resistance to the disease causing agent rather than directly neutralizing the agent itself. Vyadhikshamatva is described in ayurveda and this concept is considered equivalent to immunity. Normal condition of kapha, bala and ojas are also similar to immunity. According to Acharya Charak Bala is three type-1) Sahaj bala, 2) Kalaj bala, 3) Yuktikrita bala. Sahaja bala occurs naturally according to the body and mind. This force is generated from birth itself, just as the body is generated from mothers and fathers, force is also generated according to ones body and mind. Kalaja bala is called that which is according to seasons and according to age i.e. childhood, youth and old age. Kalaja bala arises automatically according to time and Yuktikruit bala (Modulated by diet, exercise, regimen and immunomodulator- rasayanas). Innate immunity may be corelated to Sahaja bala described in Ayurveda. Kalaja bala and yuktikrita bala may be corelated to acquired immunity. Ayurveda boasts of many medicinal plant which can enhance body immunity like ashwagandha (Withania sominifera), Guduchi (Tinospora cordiofolia) etc. Rasayana drugs such as Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Amalaki and sYastimadhu also contribute for good immunity.

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