The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic shook the world as we knew it, placing a strain on the
contemporary public health systems in place across India and on a global scale. When Western
medicine delayed giving immediate solutions to address the declining immunity of the general
public or to provide a prophylactic solution especially prior to the deployment of the vaccine,
people turned to traditional medicine to mitigate the pandemic- and Ayurvedic sciences were in
the limelight.
Based on the official ‘National Clinical Management Protocol based on Ayurveda and Yoga for
management of Covid-19’ document released by the Government of India- Ministry of AYUSH,
the pivotal role of Ayurveda and Yoga have been recognised, particularly on the prevention front
and the supplement the benefits of the postulated existing medical frameworks of care.
One of the major factors that prevents morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 infection is an
individual’s good immune status. The Ayurvedic protocols recommended at various stages have
been detailed below:
- For general prophylaxis and prevention- to be followed by all
● Wear a facemask at all times, practice social distancing and follow respiratory
and hand hygiene measures
● Gargling- Use warm water with a pinch of salt and turmeric to gargle or gargle
using water boiled with Triphala or Yashtimadhu
● Application of medicated oil or cow’s ghee nasally
● Steam inhalation with carom seeds, eucalyptus oil or mint once daily
● Get adequate sleep
● Keep active with moderate physical exercise and/or Yoga
● Eat a healthy balanced diet with warm and fresh food
● Drink enough water- boil water with ginger, cumin or basil for added benefit
● Before sleeping, if you do not suffer from indigestion, drink turmeric milk every
night
● Drink a hot decoction of Ayush Kadha once daily - Prophylactic care for high-risk individuals or primary contacts
In addition to the above general prophylaxis and prevention methods, the use of
Ashwagandha, Guduchi Ghanavati and Chyawanaprasha is recommended, dosage as
directed by an Ayurvedic physician. - Asymptomatic individuals who test COVID-19 positive
In order to prevent morbidity, mortality and to ensure a recovery, the use of Guduchi
Ghanavati, Guduchi+Pippali and AYUSH64 medicines to be had in dosages as given by
an Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended, in addition to the above general prophylaxis
and prevention methods. - Symptomatic individuals who test COVID-19 positive
For people presenting with mild symptoms of COVID-19 without signs of breathlessness
or hypoxia, Guduchi+Pippali and AYUSH64 medicines (additions or substitutions may be
available) to be had in dosages as given by an Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended,
in addition to the above general prophylaxis and prevention methods. - Post COVID-19 infection
In addition to the above general prophylaxis and prevention methods, the use of
Ashwagandha, Chyawanaprasha and Rasayana Churna (additions or substitutions may
be available) is recommended in a dosage as directed by an Ayurvedic physician to
prevent major physical and mental health complications.
The potential of Ayurveda to supplement strategies in place with a few prophylactic and
protective methodologies during the pandemic has been largely recognised and appreciated,
within India as well as on a global stage.
