2:20 min. read
Different approaches to the same problem
Amidst the Covid-19 global pandemic, there is a lot of uncertainty and speculation regarding successful treatments for the new Coronavirus. As it sinks into the collective psyche that this disease is here to stay, and we must learn how to live with it, there is no shortage of novel initiatives to find effective treatments and cures. India has not fallen between the cracks in this regard. The Ministry of AYUSH (India’s Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy; organism in charge of researching, educating, and developing alternative health system options) has tested many but approved just one Ayurvedic treatment to help in this worldwide crisis.
Who is behind Ayurvedic treatments for Covid-19?
Dalmia Healthcare Limited, an India-based developer of internationally marketed Ayurvedic and herbal treatments, has started manufacturing a polyherbal combination. After successful clinical trials showed that it can be used as an auxiliary remedy to work alongside standard Covid-19 care for mild and moderate cases, AYUSH approved the initiative.“Aptly named Astha or faith, Astha-15 brings back the faith of the healthcare fraternity in Ayurveda. The pathbreaking medicine acts as a bronchodilator, decongestant, anti-inflammatory and lung detoxifier. It helps in eliminating the infection and regulating the allergic reactions. This has a specific action on the mucosa of the respiratory tract and the muscular walls of the lungs that act as the airways. It has an anti-inflammatory effect which reduces inflammation and congestion inside the lungs. Its continuous use reduces the damage on the lungs and the muscular walls and brings out a significant reversal in their dysfunction. All these disorders which have been found in Covid-19 patients have been confirmed to be treated by Astha-15.” (Ghosh, 2020)
What is India doing differently?
India’s government has been encouraging the consumption of traditionally used immune booster ingredients, which has also increased the consumption of Ayurvedic preparations. Turmeric milk and ginger milk, along with honey-based recipes, are great supporters of a robust immune system and are making a strong comeback. Furthermore, these recipes based on ancient wisdom can be made at home and are tried and true for their effectiveness.
“The approval process of Ayurveda immunity-boosters is relatively simple. They have backed up the claims with the support of the existing body of literature.” (Buch & Viswanath, 2020)
Why is it important?
Moreover, more people are beginning to recognize the importance of preventive and holistic medicine, concentrating on adopting healthy habits; these are ideas that are, intrinsically, Ayurvedic concepts. So much so that “the potential role of Ayurveda in the management of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) will be the focus of this year’s Ayurveda Day, which will be observed on November 13” (Joydeep, 2020) and the Ministry of AYUSH launched a treatment protocol for the Coronavirus based on Ayurvedic medicines and Yoga Asanas.All Ayurveda practitioners are responsible for their consumption of Ayurvedic treatments and are encouraged to consult with their doctors before beginning medications, of course, but this is how India is successfully incorporating traditional medicine into the journey of finding better ways to treat Covid-19.
Stay safe and follow all guidelines in your area, and remember, being healthy and protected is a step forward to feel amazing in your own skin.What Ayurveda can bring to the table during these trying times is definitely invaluable, and, with its millenary knowledge, it brings a fresh perspective. It proves that tradition and modernity can be successfully mixed as they compliment each other perfectly.