Immunity Immunity is our own body’s resistance to diseases or infections caused by pathogens. Excessive microbicidal use in the name of hygiene has made our immune system weak. According to modern science, Immunity is the function of certain cells, enzymes and immunomodulatory chemicals that attack pathogens and prevent them from causing diseases In Ayurveda, diseases are classified as – Nija and Aganthu. Nija(innate immunity) – caused by imbalances within the body Aganthu(acquired immunity) – caused by an external factor Immunity is also explained in Ayurveda by varied concepts like Bala (the concept of strength), Vyadhi Kshamathwa (the concept of resistance to illness development) and Ojas (the concept of supreme resilience). Bala – ability of the system to repair and nourish itself and be effective in disease prevention Vyadhi Kshamathwa – the ability of the immune system to fight against the disease- causing pathogens Ojas – explains the direct correlation between digestion and immunity Ojas – the end product of complete digestion – creates radiant good health, stable emotions and immunity. Balanced doshas are also essential for a proper resistance to illness. Another theory is Beej-bhumi theory which means ‘seed and land’. Body signifies land and infection is like seeds. A body filled with ‘Ama’ and lacking in Ojas is more prone to infections. Factors having a negative effect on Body’s Immunity Imbalanced Diet Excessive consumption of unhealthy foods, processed food Excessive alcohol intake Irregular sleep Negative emotions, psychological tension High stress Obesity Chronic medications – long term use of antibiotics and other medications Dehydration High ama content(undigested food) Contamination of the environment Lack of physical activities Factors that help Improve Immunity Well balanced diet – Diet according to Prakriti, Dosha, Season. Daily practice of Yogasana, Pranayama, and meditation for at least 30 minutes Regular detox activity like fasting and Panchakarma. Golden Milk- Half teaspoon Haldi (turmeric) powder in 150 ml hot milk - once or twice a day. Sit in Vajrasana after having a meal Take deep blissful sleep Gargle with warm salt water twice a day. It expels out bacteria and germs from the nasal passages and throat and prevents them from entering into the bloodstream. Chew thoroughly. Slow down and enjoy each meal in a peaceful environment. Drink warm water throughout the day. Ways to Improve Immune Factor of Meals Select easy-to-digest foods Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and light dairy products. Foods that are processed, canned, frozen or packaged are harder to digest and create ama. Include immune-boosting spices in cooking – cumin, fennel, coriander, turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon Eat immune-boosting foods Sweet, juicy fruits (such as pears, peaches, plums, sweet pineapple and mangos) enhance immunity because they transform quickly into Ojas Leafy greens such as Swiss chard, kale, mustard greens, and spinach are great immunity-boosters Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower contain antioxidants, flavonoids and other immune-enhancing nutrients. Whole grains such as quinoa, amaranth, and barley also have immunity- fighting effects Ghee and milk hold a special place in the ayurvedic tradition for their Ojas- enhancing effects. Don’t overcook your food It reduces its immune-boosting effects Eat at the proper time and regular intervals Eat a main meal in the middle of the day, when the sun is highest and digestion strong. Eat lighter at breakfast and night, when digestion is weaker. Eat proper quantity Eat to only 1/3 of your capacity - leave some space for the digestive process to take place. Choose foods according to your Prakriti, dosha, and season. Include Ayurvedic rejuvenative herbs takes as teas or tonics in diet Ashwagandha, Triphala, Amla, Tulsi, Chyavanprash Immunity Kit Chyavanprash SVM Giloy Turmeric ►Buy Piles treatment and Herbal Powder for Acidity at online Visit www.advanceayurveda.in/products/ ►Twitter: twitter.com/dr_shridhar7 ►Facebook: www.facebook.com/advanceayurveda ►Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.aggarwal/