According to Ayurveda, any food that transforms quickly into ‘Oja’ is good for immunity
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency, and many countries, including India, are grappling with a rise in confirmed cases of Coronavirus or COVID19. For a country of the population size of 1.3 billion, India has only 50 reported cases, with no testified causality, which is indicative that the authorities are meticulous and conscious too.
It is necessary to determine what else can be done to improve health profile and fight against the possible infection. Having a resilient immune system appears to be a reliable weapon, it indeed is one’s bodies security guard against infections and other harmful invaders.
Even in the world of alternative medicines, like Ayurveda, several journals talk about Yuktikrutaja Bala, defined as acquired strength is the one which is achieved by the combination of diet and physical activities.
According to Ayurveda, any food that transforms quickly into ‘Oja’ is good for immunity. A person who has good Dhattusaar and follows Ritucharya (Ayurvedic principles according to the seasons), has good Ojas and they rarely fall sick. Food products, which can help build up Ojas and are common to Indian diet are wheat, dalia, cow ghee, cow milk, honey, amla, seasonal fruits and vegetables, paneer, fresh curd, and pulses.
“Nuts are given special importance for developing immunity almonds, walnuts, dried figs, dried apricots to name a few. Almonds are even more special because of availability and known health attributes. Almonds can be eaten dried or soaked overnight, and can even be pounded and added to milk. Almonds are specifically known for their richness in fibres and are full of antioxidants. Walnuts, figs, apricots, pistachios are also a great reservoir for iron, calcium, and anti-oxidants” says Dr. Ela Chaudhary, a practicing Ayurvedic Doctor with specialisation in herbal medication and ayurvedic diet.