The South Indian state of Kerala has started mass distribution
of ayurvedic immunity booster medicines through
recently-launched ‘Ayur Raksha’ clinics in its attempt to prevent and mitigate
the deadly Covid-19.
Over 800 Ayur Raksha Clinics, the basic project implementation
units, are formed by linking all ayurvedic dispensaries at district and taluk
levels across the state.
“We’re distributing medicines with immune-modulator properties
like Indukantham, Sudarsana tablet and Vilwadi gulika to improve
people’s immunity. Similarly, ready-made herbal decoction and Choorna (Shadanga
Choorna) are provided free of cost through the Ayur Raksha clinics. They
can also get Dhoompana (herbal smoking) kits for cleansing the
surroundings. We aim to cover at least four lakh families in the initial stage,”
said Dr K S Preeya, Director, Indian Systems of Medicine (ISM).
The ISM comes under the department of AYUSH, Kerala. Already
130 out of total 944 institutions under the ISM have been turned into
quarantine facilities. More units are being converted into isolation wards with
the state expecting repatriation of its citizens stranded abroad by the first
half of next month.
According to Dr Preeya, the preventive medicines are provided
to individuals post consultation by expert Ayurveda doctors at the clinics,
mainly under four projects. For instance, ‘Sukhayushyam’ is aimed at
elderly above the age of 60.
“Similarly, those who recover from the Covid-19 are also
provided specific ayurvedic treatment so as to raise their immunity. This is
done under the ‘Punarjani’ scheme.
The medicines will be provided free upon completion of the 14-days
mandatory isolation post discharge from hospital,” she added.
The ISM has also extended free tele-consulting services in
all the districts. “Expert Ayurveda doctors will provide remedies to patients
who are already under long medication or in need of urgent treatment. Telephonic
counselling services too are being provided to those facing depression or exhibiting
alcohol symptoms,” Dr Preeya said.
The department has also introduced an ayurvedic medicine kit
to boost immunity of those in the high-risk categories like Health staff, Police,
Fire and Rescue personnel. The medicines should be consumed for at least 14
days to have impact.
