COVID-19: A PROPHYLACTIC APPROACH THROUGH AYURVEDA AND YOGA

Abstract

The entire world is facing the corona virus COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 which has become the global health crisis as well as unprecedented socio-economic crisis. Being a new form of virus, there is no proven vaccine for this. It has become the greatest challenge since World War 2. In cases of critical stage, when conventional mainstream medicine is at the forefront, it is necessary to look over its preventive aspect through alternative sciences and collaborate with other effective medical sciences. The modern science focuses on interventions based on disease causing agents and immunize against it. Ayurveda’s extensive knowledge based on preventive care includes interventions which enhance the body’s natural defense system for maintaining optimum health. Our objective of this literature review is to understand the role of ayurvedic herbal medicines to combat this viral infection with their role in enhancing immunity, role of various Dincharya procedures in prophylaxis against this virus and role of Yoga, Pranayama and meditation in improving the pulmonary functions and in making the immune system strong. Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2, Dincharya, Ayurveda, Pandemic, Immunity, Pranayama.