While the effectiveness of alternate medicine in preventing
and treating novel coronavirus infection is still being hotly debated, the
South Indian state of Kerala has taken the lead and decided to use the ancient
science of Ayurveda in preventing and mitigating the deadly Covid-19.
The action plan drawn by the state government includes
setting up of Ayurvedic Covid-19 response cells at state, district and regional
levels, Ayur Raksha clinics for strengthening preventive mechanisms and
implementation of Swasthiyam, Sukhayushyam, Punarjani and Niramaya
programmes.
Swasthiyam is a comprehensive Ayurvedic programme aimed at enhancing immunity
and there-by reducing chances of contracting the virus infection. It comprises
dietary, lifestyle and behavioural modifications with minimal specific
medications for the entire people, classified into seven groups on the basis of
age and risk of Covid-19 exposure. It also aims at popularizing simple and systematic
exercises comprising of Yoga (20 minutes daily) for improving physical health,
mental health and lung compliance.
Sukhayushyam is for the elderly section above the age of 60 and aimed at
sustenance and promotion of general health, mental health and to minimize infection
susceptibility as well as fatal complications.
Under the Punarjani convalescent care project, specific
Ayurvedic treatment is provided to cured Covid-19 patients in the recovery phase
after the mandatory isolation of 14 days post discharge from the hospital, according
to a Government Order issued in this respect.
The government will also establish Niramaya, the
official virtual platform for enabling effective utilization of all the Ayurvedic
strategies planned for Covid-19 mitigation.
“Several Ayurveda medications are effective as immune modulators
and prevent us from getting infected by the viral infection. For instance, the
commonly available ginger or black pepper… Similarly managing one’s diet is
also equally important…,” said Dr P K Warrior, noted Ayurveda exponent and
Managing Trustee of the Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala.
