Ayurvedic perspectives of immunomodulation in toddlers: A narrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55718/kja.420Keywords:
Lehana, Prashana, Uramarunnu, Prakaara yoga, Vyadhikshamatva, ImmunityAbstract
Abstract
The concept of immunity in Ayurveda is distinctive, with the domain of immunomodulation beginning from the gestational period and extending through the preadolescent period. Immunity is defined as the quality or state of being immune, precisely the capacity to resist a particular disease by preventing the development of a pathogenic microorganism or counteracting its products' effects. Immunisation stimulates the immune system, which can be achieved through physical activities, lifestyle modifications, a balanced diet and regimen, certain medications, vaccination, and subclinical natural infections that occur in day-to-day life. Immunity in Ayurveda is confined to Vyadhikshmatva, which implies both resistance and interconnections regarding the change in the proportion of Dosha, Agni and Aama. This review critically assesses various immunomodulatory measures in Ayurveda like lehana, prashana, swarnaprashana,karnavedhana, uramarunnu, ahara, and praakaara yogas, along with various dimensions of immunity, including bala, ojas and vyadhikshamatva by analysing a range of scholarly journals, articles and research works. The use of phytoconstituents to enhance the body's overall resistance is distinctly outlined in Ayurveda. It aims to prevent the
impending Dosha vitiation from occurring from infancy to adolescence. It is found that immunomodulation through ayurvedic domains is clinically significant in preventing various infections in toddlers. The susceptibility to infections in children is high due to various factors, including the physiological immaturity of the immune system. The various immunomodulators in Ayurveda can play an inevitable role in the formation and maturation of the immune system in toddlers.
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