There could be hardly anyone who doesn’t know the proverb “health is wealth”. Without good health nothing in this world matters. People with less immunity power are more prone to diseases and suffer. Some of the well established Indian ways to have a strong immune system are discussed in this article:
1. Fenugreek seeds are well known for their role in controlling blood sugar and weight loss. Soak 1 teaspoon of the seeds in 1 glass water overnight. Drink the yellowish colored water in the morning in empty stomach.
2. Triphala is a mixture of three fruits Amalaki or Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) Bibhitaki or (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki or black myrobalan (Terminalia chebula). The mixture is well-known for medicinal properties since time immemorial. Triphala mixture can be taken after mixing with luke warm water on an empty stomach before taking meal. Consuming the individual fruits is also beneficial. Matured Haritaki (which has turned black) should be soaked for some time before consumption. Triphala is an excellent source of antioxidants, acts as laxative, helps in fighting cold, digestion etc.
3. Neem (Azadirachta indica) is used in various medicines in Ayurveda. Leaves can be smashed and the filtered bitter juice is beneficial to fight against skin diseases. It also purifies blood. some people cannot tolerate neem juice on an empty stomach in that case you can mix raw turmeric juice and drink. This mixture removes toxins from the blood.
4. Garlic (Allium sativum) is an excellent source to improve heart condition, purifies blood, helps prevent cold. People having excess body weight can consume garlic cloves to reduce body weight (1 clove everyday).
5. Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is well known for it’s medicinal properties in fighting cold and cough. There are two types of tulsi – typical green tulsi and black tulsi or Krishna tulsi. Krishna tulsi is more recommended by the ayurveda specialists. Tulsi can be eaten raw or by making herbal tea.
6. Herbal tea is mixture of all beneficial ingredients. Boil blackpepper, tulsi, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, mint leaves (2-3nos.), turmeric (raw and smashed), clove, lemon juce and palm candy and drink it after filtering. Drinking herbal tea regularly will build high immunity system to fight against many ailments.
7. Yoga is practiced by many people as an indoor exercise. Practicing yoga can bring body in good shape and reduce stress level.
8. As per ancient Indian customs after sunset household works are adjourned and the works are started in early hours of morning. The intention was to have good sleep as per natural cycle. In modern days we are not able to follow this custom. But having sound sleep for atleast 8 hours is must for a healthy life. Lack of good sleep costs us dearly as slowly our brain and heart functions are disrupted when we do not sleep for sufficient duration.
9. Chyavanprash is an ancient ayurveda formulation. It is a mixture of various herbs and other ingredients. Eating one teaspoon of Chyavanprash alongwith honey or warm milk or warm water is a common practice at my household during winter. Nowadays there are formulations for diabetic patients too. It improves immunity, fights against cold, cell degeneration is reduced.
10. Healthy life style is the most important point when it comes to improve body immune system. Diet comprising of green vegetables, fruits, milk, traditional carbohydrate rich foods help in boosting immune system. Various Indian regions have various food specialties. For instance “Rasam” from southern region is an excellent formulation of essential ingredients. Eating traditional food is always beneficial. Avoid junk food, smoking and alcohol consumption. Meditation for 15-20 minutes every day will bring down the stress level.
In addition to the above mentioned ways another long practiced tradition is worth to be mentioned here. Most of the Indians drink at least 2 glasses of water (normal) right after getting up which helps in avoiding various stomach issues. Improving immune system is not about “one minute magic”! It takes time to have a better immune system. Improving body immunity through Indian traditions is basically a holistic approach involving both mind and body. So while you are taking care of your body, don’t be too hard on yourself as taking care of mental health is equally important.
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