Therapeutic and preventive approach on swine flu in ayurveda: a critical review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Therapeutic and preventive approach on swine flu in ayurveda: a critical review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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*Naresh K. Kumawat
Lecturer, Dept. of KC, SBLD Ayurved Vishwabharti College, Sardar shahar, Churu, Rajasthan, India
Dhannajay, Dharmendra K. Sharma
Associate professor, Dept. of KC, SBLD Ayurved Vishwabharti College, Sardar shahar, Churu, Rajasthan, India. Lecturer, Dept. of Rachna sharer, SBLD Ayurved Vishwabharti College, Sardar shahar, Churu, Rajasthan, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Therapeutic and preventive approach on swine flu in ayurveda: a critical review
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Swine flu, an acute respiratory infection caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, emerged as a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly following the 2009 pandemic originating in Mexico. According to Ayurveda, the flu is attributed to a deficiency in the body's generalized immunity, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing "Ojas," or immunity, to prevent such infections. Ayurveda's primary goal is to maintain health and prevent disease, which can be achieved through various therapeutic approaches that fortify immunity and combat pathogens in the body.
Immunity and Ojas in Ayurveda
A crucial concept in Ayurveda is the understanding of immunity through the "Beej-bhumi" (seed-land) theory. This theory suggests that the body acts as fertile land, where toxins or "Ama" compromise its health and allow viruses to thrive. In contrast, robust "Ojas," stemming from a healthy digestive system, contributes to resistance against infections. Consequently, Ayurveda posits that by strengthening Ojas and enhancing immunity, individuals can effectively prevent the spread of flu and other respiratory infections. The correlation between immunity and bodily health is firmly established, indicating that maintaining a strong digestive fire is essential for preventing infections from taking hold.
Panchakarma Therapy
Panchakarma, a hallmark Ayurvedic therapy involving five bio-cleansing methods, plays a significant role in detoxifying and rejuvenating the body to restore balance and health. The five therapies�Vamana (therapeutic vomiting), Virecana (therapeutic purgation), Nasya (nasal instillation), Niruha basti (therapeutic enemas), and Anuvasana basti (medicated oil enemas)—aim to eliminate the underlying causes of disease. The process begins with preparatory therapies (Purvakarma) involving the application of medicated oils and induction of sweating, followed by the primary treatment (Pradhana karma) and concluding with post-procedural measures (Paschat karma) to restore normalcy in bodily functions. Panchakarma is deemed beneficial not only for illness but also for maintaining overall health through preventive measures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ayurvedic practices, particularly through the concepts of enhancing immunity and employing detoxification methods like Panchakarma, offer comprehensive strategies for preventing and managing swine flu and other respiratory infections. These approaches focus on boosting the body's natural defenses and cleansing it of toxins, thereby reducing the likelihood of illness. The integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary health methodologies further underscores the importance of prevention over cure, solidifying Ayurveda's relevance in modern health care. Embracing these principles can lead to enhanced immunity and overall well-being.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What causes swine flu according to Ayurveda?
According to Ayurveda, swine flu occurs when there is a lack of generalized immunity in the body. It emphasizes that strengthening ‘Ojas� (immunity) is crucial to prevent flu and combat infections.
What are the preventive measures against swine flu?
Preventive measures include proper hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places, maintaining good ventilation, and using Ayurvedic methods like steam inhalation with eucalyptus or practicing ‘Nasya� to boost immunity and prevent infections.
How does Ayurveda treat swine flu effectively?
Ayurveda employs therapies such as ‘Nasya� (nasal instillation), ‘Rasayana� (rejuvenation), and ‘Panchkarma� (detoxification) to enhance immunity, cleanse the body, and prevent the spread of infections like swine flu.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Therapeutic and preventive approach on swine flu in ayurveda: a critical review�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Viru:
The text refers to 'virus' multiple times, particularly the H1N1 influenza virus which causes Swine Flu. The virus is responsible for the acute respiratory infection characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills, and body ache.
2) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is an Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of medication through the nasal passage. It is used for conditions above the neck and to cleanse toxins. Different types of Nasya help in treating various ailments like sinusitis and rhinitis.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India focused on balancing bodily doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) for good health. It emphasizes prevention, natural treatments, lifestyle modifications, and the use of herbal remedies.
4) Disease:
The text discusses Swine Flu as a disease caused by the H1N1 virus. It highlights symptoms, epidemiology, and Ayurvedic approaches to treating and preventing the disease, emphasizing immunity and detoxification.
5) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana therapy in Ayurveda aims to rejuvenate and enhance the body's tissues through herbal formulations like Chyawanprash and lifestyle changes. It improves immunity, ensures better tissue function, and slows the aging process.
6) Snehana:
Snehana involves the internal and external application of oils or fats to soften the body and loosen toxins. It is preparatory to Panchakarma therapies for detoxification, essential for eliminating doshas and purifying the body.
7) Karma (Karman):
Karma in the text refers to therapeutic procedures or actions in Ayurveda, such as Nasya Karma (nasal therapy) and Panchakarma (five purifying actions). It underscores specific actions for health maintenance and disease prevention.
8) Drug:
The text refers to Ayurvedic drugs with antiviral, cleansing, and antioxidant properties. Examples include herbal formulations and oils used in Nasya, and therapeutic measures to improve immunity and combat infections.
9) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, clarified butter, is used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic benefits and as an 'anupana' (carrier) to improve drug delivery and absorption. It balances doshas, enhances digestion, and is involved in Snehana therapy.
10) Powder:
Powdered herbs, like turmeric or cloves, are used in Ayurvedic formulations for their medicinal properties. They can be part of churna (powder mixes) for internal consumption or for external application in various treatments.
11) Ojas:
Ojas is the subtle essence of all bodily tissues and crucial for immunity in Ayurveda. Low Ojas correlates with low immunity and vulnerability to infections like flu. Strengthening Ojas enhances the body's resistance.
12) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to the vital fluid formed after digestion, essential for nourishing tissues. Rasayana therapies aim to improve the quality of Rasa, contributing to overall health and immunity.
13) Transmission:
Transmission of Swine Flu mainly occurs via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. The text highlights the importance of hand hygiene and avoiding crowded places to prevent the spread of the influenza virus.
14) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, which provides the context for the traditional practices mentioned. Ayurvedic hospitals and colleges in India, like SBLD Ayurved Vishwabharti College, are central to promoting these holistic treatments.
15) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) are fundamental bodily energies in Ayurveda. Health is achieved by balancing these doshas. The text discusses how imbalances contribute to diseases like Swine Flu and the therapeutic measures to correct them.
16) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and bodily functions. An excess of Vata can lead to respiratory issues, which Ayurveda aims to balance through dietary and therapeutic interventions.
17) Food:
Food and diet are vital in Ayurveda for maintaining health. Proper digestion and dietary habits support strong immunity, preventing diseases like Swine Flu. Recommendations include consuming seasonal, fresh, and balanced meals.
18) Fire:
In Ayurvedic terminology, 'fire' refers to Agni, the digestive fire. A strong Agni ensures proper digestion, nutrient assimilation, and immunity. Balancing Agni is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining overall health.
19) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan is an Indian state where the SBLD Ayurved Vishwabharti College is located. This institution is referenced in the context of the authors' academic affiliations and contributions to the research on Swine Flu.
20) Nostril:
Nostril administration is a key part of Nasya therapy in Ayurveda. Medicines administered through the nostrils reach the brain and sinuses, helping in detoxification and treatment of diseases above the neck.
21) Jaggery:
Jaggery, a traditional unrefined sugar, is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its medicinal properties. It aids digestion and is often combined with other herbs to make herbal concoctions for treating respiratory infections.
22) Shahar (Sahar):
Referenced in 'Sardar Shahar,' this is a town in Rajasthan, India. The Ayurved Vishwabharti College mentioned in the text is based in Sardar Shahar, highlighting the geographical context of the academic and clinical research.
23) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas, associated with structure, stability, and fluid balance. An aggravated Kapha can lead to mucus-related respiratory issues. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance Kapha to prevent and treat flu-like symptoms.
24) Honey:
Honey is used in Ayurveda as an anupana (carrier) for medicines and for its own health benefits. It enhances drug absorption, boosts immunity, and has antimicrobial properties, aiding in the treatment of respiratory issues.
25) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of Swine Flu and other infections. Ayurveda treats fever (jwara) by balancing doshas and using herbs, diet, and therapies like Rasayana to boost immunity and manage symptoms.
26) Diet:
Ayurveda emphasizes dietary habits for disease prevention and health maintenance. A balanced diet strengthens digestion (Agni) and immunity (Ojas). The text provides specific dietary recommendations to prevent and manage flu.
27) Hair:
Ayurveda considers healthy hair a sign of good health. Regular practices like Nasya help prevent hair fall and graying. Herbal oils and treatments nourish the hair and scalp, ensuring strength and vitality.
28) Milk:
Milk is used in Ayurveda as a nourishing agent and an anupana (carrier) for medicinal herbs. It helps balance doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and is included in preparatory and rejuvenative therapies like Rasayana.
29) Human body:
The human body in Ayurveda is managed through balancing doshas, cleansing therapies (Panchakarma), and strengthening immunity (Rasayana). Ayurvedic treatments focus on holistic health, considering both physical and mental well-being.
30) Pradhana-karma:
Pradhana-karma refers to the main therapeutic procedure in Panchakarma therapies. After preparatory steps like Snehana and Swedana, procedures like Nasya and Virecana effectively remove toxins and restore doshic balance.
31) Paschat-karma:
Paschat-karma are post-procedure measures following Panchakarma therapies. It includes dietary and lifestyle recommendations to restore digestive fire (Agni) and maintain health after detoxification treatments.
32) Shirovirecana (Shiras-virecana, Sirovirecana):
Sirovirecana, also called Nasya, involves the administration of therapeutic substances through the nostrils. It is used for treating ailments above the neck and helps eliminate toxins, ensuring the health of the head and sensory organs.
33) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a bodily response to infection or injury. Ayurvedic treatments aim to reduce inflammation using anti-inflammatory herbs and therapies, which help alleviate symptoms like pain and swelling in conditions like Swine Flu.
34) Nasyakarman (Nasyakarma, Nasya-karma):
Nasyakarma is another term for Nasya, involving the therapeutic use of nasal drops or oils. This procedure helps manage respiratory conditions and improve the function of the sense organs, promoting overall health.
35) Virecana:
Virecana is a detoxification therapy in Panchakarma, involving therapeutic purgation. It cleanses the intestines, helps remove toxins (Pitta dosha) from the body, and manages conditions like inflammatory issues and chronic diseases.
36) Pradhana:
Pradhana in the context of Ayurveda refers to the primary or main therapeutic procedure within Panchakarma, such as Nasya or Virecana. It is the key step after preparatory actions like Snehana and Swedana.
37) Epidemic:
An epidemic refers to a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease. The 2009 H1N1 influenza outbreak is cited as an example. Ayurveda provides preventive strategies and treatments to boost immunity and manage such outbreaks.
38) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating or Swedana is a preparatory and therapeutic process in Ayurveda that induces perspiration to remove toxins from the body. It follows Snehana and helps in detoxifying the bodily channels before main therapies.
39) Haridra:
Haridra, or turmeric, is a widely used Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. It is used in formulations to prevent and treat infections and enhance overall immunity.
40) Samana (Shamana):
Samana therapy in Ayurveda refers to palliative treatments aimed at balancing the doshas. It includes dietary changes, herbal medicines, and lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms and restore health.
41) Gutika:
Gutika refers to tablets or pills made of Ayurvedic ingredients. Examples mentioned are Khadiradi Gutika and Lavangadi Gutika, which are used to treat respiratory conditions and enhance immunity.
42) Bindu (Bimdu):
Bindu is a measure for liquids, especially in Nasya treatments. It represents the amount of liquid formed by immersing two digits of the index finger, crucial for determining the correct dosage of nasal drops.
43) Trayi:
Trayi refers to classical Ayurvedic texts, divided into Bruhat Trayi (great triad) and Laghu Trayi (lesser triad). These texts provide comprehensive knowledge on Ayurvedic medicines, therapies, and principles.
44) Basti:
Basti or enema is a Panchakarma therapy aimed at detoxifying the colon. It can be oil-based (Anuvasana Basti) or decoction-based (Niruha Basti), aiding in the elimination of accumulated doshas and toxins.
45) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. It is a governmental body in India promoting traditional medical systems. The journal AYUSHDHARA focuses on research in these areas.
46) Fight:
Fight, in the context of the text, refers to the body's ability to combat infections like Swine Flu. Ayurvedic treatments aim to boost immunity, helping the body 'fight' against pathogens and maintain health.
47) Vati:
Vati refers to Ayurvedic tablets or pills made from herbal ingredients. Examples include Vyosadi Vati, used for respiratory health, and other formulations aimed at boosting immunity and treating infections.
48) Bird:
Birds are mentioned as reservoirs of the influenza virus (H1N1). The virus can spread from birds to humans, leading to infections like Swine Flu. Preventive measures are crucial to control such zoonotic diseases.
49) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom in many diseases, including influenza. Ayurveda addresses pain through herbal formulations, therapies like Panchakarma, and lifestyle modifications aimed at balancing doshas and reducing inflammation.
50) Wind:
Wind is related to Vata dosha in Ayurveda, which governs movement and change. Imbalanced Vata can lead to respiratory issues and pain. Treatments aim to balance Vata through diet, lifestyle, and therapies.
51) Spiritual therapy:
Spiritual therapy or Daivavyapasraya Chikitsa in Ayurveda involves rituals, prayers, and mantras to promote healing. It addresses the mental and spiritual aspects of health, complementing physical treatments.
52) Butter milk (Buttermilk):
Buttermilk or Takra is used in Ayurveda for its digestive properties. It balances doshas, particularly Pitta and Kapha, and is often recommended as an anupana (carrier) with herbal medicines to enhance digestion.
53) Anuvasanabasti (Anuvasana-basti):
Anuvasana Basti is a type of therapeutic enema using medicated oils in Panchakarma. It helps remove Vata dosha, lubricates the colon, and is used for conditions like constipation and neurological issues.
54) Daivavyapashraya (Daivavyapasraya):
Daivavyapasraya Chikitsa is spiritual therapy in Ayurveda, involving rituals, prayers, and divine practices for healing. It complements rational and psychological therapies in treating both physical and mental health issues.
55) Niruhabasti (Niruha-basti):
Niruha Basti is a Panchakarma therapy involving the administration of medicated decoctions through enema. It helps cleanse the colon, remove toxins, and balance the doshas, particularly helpful in chronic diseases.
56) Purification:
Purification in Ayurveda refers to detoxifying the body through Panchakarma therapies. It removes accumulated toxins (ama) and imbalanced doshas, preparing the body for rejuvenation and improving overall health.
57) Purvakarma (Purvakarman, Purva-karman):
Purvakarma is another term for preparatory procedures in Panchakarma. It includes Snehana (massage with oils) and Swedana (sweating therapy) to prepare the body for the main detoxification treatments.
58) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samsodhana refers to bio-cleansing therapies in Ayurveda, primarily Panchakarma, aimed at removing toxins from the body. These therapies ensure deep detoxification, preventing diseases and promoting health.
59) Dharmendra (Dharma-indra):
Dharmendra K. Sharma is one of the authors of the reviewed article, contributing to the research and discussion on the therapeutic and preventive approaches to Swine Flu in Ayurveda.
60) Detachment:
Detachment in Ayurveda can refer to the process of disconnecting toxins from body tissues during therapies like Snehana and Swedana. It helps in preparing the body for effective elimination of these toxins.
61) Science (Scientific):
Scientific validation of Ayurvedic therapies involves adopting contemporary clinical, biochemical, and pathological parameters. It ensures the safety and efficacy of practices like Panchakarma in treating chronic diseases.
62) Pancakarma (Pancakarman, Pancan-karman, Pamcakarma):
Pancakarma is a set of five detoxification therapies in Ayurveda: Vamana (vomiting), Virecana (purgation), Nasya (nasal therapy), Niruha Basti (decoction enema), and Anuvasana Basti (oil enema). It aims to cleanse and rejuvenate the body.
63) Anuvasana:
Anuvasana Basti is an oil-based enema used in Panchakarma therapy. It lubricates and softens the colon, helping to eliminate Vata dosha and toxins, and is beneficial for digestive and neurological disorders.
64) Samshamana (Samsamana):
Samsamana therapy refers to palliative treatments in Ayurveda aimed at balancing the doshas and alleviating symptoms. It involves dietary changes, herbal medicines, and lifestyle adjustments to manage diseases.
65) Anutaila (Anu-taila):
Anu-taila is an Ayurvedic oil used specifically for Nasya therapy. It nourishes and strengthens the nose, head, and sense organs, providing therapeutic benefits like preventing hair graying and enhancing immunity.
66) Avapidaka (Ava-pidaka):
Avapidaka Nasya involves the administration of medicated pastes or solutions through the nostrils. It is a cleansing type of Nasya used to treat conditions like chronic sinusitis and rhinitis, helping to eliminate toxins.
67) Khadiradi:
Khadiradi Gutika is an Ayurvedic tablet used for treating oral and throat infections. It has antimicrobial properties and helps in reducing symptoms like sore throat, cough, and inflammation.
68) Lavangadi (Lavanga-adi):
Lavangadi Gutika is an Ayurvedic formulation used for respiratory health. It contains cloves (Lavanga) and other herbs that help alleviate symptoms of cough, cold, and sore throat, enhancing respiratory immunity.
69) Stiffness:
Stiffness, particularly of the neck or joints, can be a symptom of various conditions. Ayurvedic therapies like Snehana (oiling) and Swedana (sweating) help reduce stiffness by improving circulation and eliminating toxins.
70) Cinnamon:
Cinnamon bark is used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, including improving digestion, enhancing circulation, and boosting immunity. It is often included in herbal formulations for treating respiratory infections.
71) Nirgundi (Nirgumdi):
Nirgundi, or Vitex negundo, is an Ayurvedic herb used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is commonly used in Swedana therapy to induce sweating and relieve pain and inflammation.
72) Medicine:
Medicines in Ayurveda are primarily derived from natural sources like herbs, minerals, and animal products. They are used in various forms, including powders, tablets, oils, and decoctions, to treat and prevent diseases.
73) Mutation:
Mutation in the context of the H1N1 virus refers to genetic changes that can alter the virus's characteristics. This makes the virus more difficult to combat due to the lack of cross-immunity and the necessity for ongoing vaccine development.
74) Vomiting:
Vomiting, or Vamana, is one of the Panchakarma therapies in Ayurveda. It involves the therapeutic induction of vomiting to cleanse the stomach and remove excess Kapha dosha, particularly useful in respiratory conditions.
75) Turmeric:
Turmeric, or Haridra, is a highly valued herb in Ayurveda known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is used in various formulations to enhance immunity and treat infections.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 115]
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