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During ancient times, the great sages of Ayurveda knew the importance of healthy animals and birds too. At that time, medical science was divided into three main categories- Ayurveda (for the health of mankind), Pashu Ayurveda (for animal welfare) and Vriksha Ayurveda (for plant health). Ayurvedic herbs and treatments have been in use for thousands of years for maintaining the health of animals.

Medicinal herbs contain a variety of pharmacologically active ingredients and each herb has its own unique properties.

 

Herbs useful for animals are:

1. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Giloy is widely used in various Ayurvedic formulations. It protects the animals from various infections as it is immune-modulatory in nature. Being an anti-endotoxic, it stimulates phagocytosis and useful in immuno-compromised conditions. Guduchi is a wonderful herb for the treatment of fever and inflammation in dogs and cats.

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger is considered as a gastro-intestinal tract in Ayurveda. It provides relief in various digestive disorders like Dyspepsia, Flatulence, Indigestion etc. Ginger restores the disturbed ruminal motility in animals and also stabilises the ruminal pH.  It also stimulates the production of saliva and induces the growth of the ruminal microbial population.

3. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is a unique herb known for its adaptogenic and anti-stress properties. The use of ashwagandha for cats and dogs helps in increasing their physiological endurance. It also helps with behaviour problems in animals such as restlessness, hyperexcitability, aggression etc. Ashwagandha also acts as an anti-oxidant and accelerates cellular regeneration and repair.

4. Jambira (Citrus limon): To protect the pets from bad odour, natural herb Jambira is of great use. It helps the pet to smell great. It is a natural way to have a clean, cool and citrusy animal coat as it helps the pets to remain free from bad odour and insects. Jambira is very useful for pets especially puppies up to 2 months of age.

5. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is useful for pets as it relieves itching and irritation. It also fights against bacterial and fungal infections of the skin. Water boiled in neem leaves is also very effective for the treatment of skin infections in animals. Neem water helps in removing dirt and dust from the skin and improves overall skin hygiene. Neem leaves also provide relief in dandruff on the pet’s skin and hair coat. Other skin conditions such as pyoderma and pruritus are also effectively treated with neem in animals.

6. Mukta Shukti: Mukta Shukti is a natural source of calcium and phosphorus which is derived from oyster shell. This compound ensures the formation of strong bones in animals. Mukta Shukti is useful for optimal bone development in puppies and as adjuvant therapy for rickets and for the formation of strong teeth and bones in adult cats and dogs. Phosphorus plays a major role in synthesising proteins in the body.

7. Kasani (Cichorium intybus): Kasani is commonly known as Chicory. It is a natural appetite stimulant which increases appetite in pets. This herb is highly useful for the treatment of enlarged liver and protects against the liver damage by regenerating liver cells. It is beneficial in jaundice and ascites in animals. This herb can be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of canine and feline viral hepatitis and parvovirus infection as well.

8. Ajamoda (Apium graveolens): Ajamoda commonly known as celery is a herb which corrects digestive disturbances associated with bloating. Ajamoda cleanses urinary bladder, relieves bladder pain, improves strength and useful Worm infestation, Vomiting, Hiccups, Anorexia i.e. lack of interest in food. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory activity and reduces oedema.

These herbs for veterinary use can be given or prepared in a number of ways:

• Fresh herbs can be chopped and mixed with food as it is the ideal way to give herbs when they are available.

• Dried herbs can be administered by adding them to food.

• Decoctions or infusions can be prepared by adding hot water for external or internal use.

• The oil infusions of herbs can be applied on sore joints.

ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura) is a disorder that leads to the reduction of platelets in the blood which causes excessive and easy bruising and bleeding. In most cases, children develop ITP from a viral infection and recover from easily without taking any treatment but adults need to take treatment for the recovery.

Symptoms of ITP are:

• Purple spots on the skin that look like a rash

• Blood in urine or stools

• Easy bruising

• Heavy menstrual flow in females

Modern medicine practitioners prescribe steroids, immune globulin injections, and other drugs that boost platelet production. Somehow those may have some side effects and results are not assured sometimes.

Ayurvedic concept of ITP:

ITP is co-related with Raktpitta in Ayurveda on the basis of signs and symptoms. Raktpitta is a bleeding disorder where Pitta vitiated blood flows out. The Pitta dosha gets vitiated and circulates in the bloodstream which is manifested sub-cutaneously. We need to give cooling herbs to deal with this disorder. Let's discuss this.

Herbal Remedies for ITP are:

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): The roots of the Ashwagandha plant act as an immuno-modulator. The roots also strengthen the bone marrow and bones. They increase the production of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.  Being an immune-modulator, this herb inhibits the immunosuppressive state of the body. Therefore, ashwagandha is a very useful herb in ITP as it increases the platelet count by working on the immune system.

2. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): Giloy is a miracle herb useful in the treatment of ITP due to its immuno-modulating, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-allergic properties. It works on the immune system and increases the platelet count in an effective and natural way.

3. Durwa Grass (Cynodon dactylon): Durwa grass is known as simple grass. It is very useful in ITP as it controls bleeding. It is cold in potency and balances Pitta and Kapha dosha. The whole plant is used for medicinal purposes. Take 10-20 ml of fresh durwa grass once or twice a day.

4. Spirulina: Spirulina is considered as an important dietary supplement which is obtained from a type of blue-green algae.  It is a source of excellent nutritional content. Spirulina has antioxidant, inflammation-fighting properties and has the ability to boost the immune system. It helps in the treatment of ITP by working on the immune system and also serves as a source of nutrition for ITP patients as blood loss can lead to fatigue and weakness.

 

5. Amla (Emblica officinalis):  Amla has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years. Amla provides relief in ITP as it is cooling and in nature and supports a healthy immune response. It rejuvenates all the tissues in the body and builds ojas as well. Take 10-20 ml freshly prepared amla juice once or twice a day.

6. Arjun: Arjun plant comes under Sheet virya herb i.e. herb which has cold potency. The bark of the Arjun tree is astringent in nature. Being cold in potency, this herb balances Pitta dosha. Due to the astringent property, it arrests excessive bleeding. Therefore, Arjun herb helps in the treatment of ITP in an effective way.

7. Gandhak (Sulphur): Purified sulphur is used for medicinal purposes. In Ayurveda, it is used in the purified form in minute quantity. Sulphur has the ability to cure even changes that occurred in DNA. It shows excellent results in skin problems.

8. Akik Pishti (Agate Calcium): Agate is a gemstone that is found at the bottom of the sea. Akik Pishti is an Ayurvedic compound which is cooling in nature and used for balancing Pitta dosha. It is most suited for bleeding disorders. Since this compound balances Pitta dosha, it is considered as a natural and excellent remedy for ITP.

Tips:

-Freshly prepared juice of papaya leaves is also beneficial for increasing the number of platelets.

-All sour fruits increase Pitta dosha so sour fruits should be avoided as sour fruits can cause fermentation in the stomach leading to the vitiation of Pitta dosha.

-Intake of sour fruits with milk and milk products should be avoided.

-Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, tea, and coffee.

-Drink the juice of carrot, pomegranate, and beetroot.

-Opt for all gourd vegetables.

Physical exercises such as jogging, running, walking, dancing, yoga, pranayama, etc. are critical for maintaining optimal health. Physical exercises act as a catalyst for improving health. In the modern lifestyle due to sedentary lives, exercises have become more important than ever. Exercise for at least 20 minutes should be an essential part of our lives.

The science of Ayurveda also emphasizes physical exercise on a regular basis. According to Ayurveda, physical activities clear the srotas (transport channels within the body) and blockages. They reduce stress and a sense of well-being is also improved. Ayurveda recommends that running and jogging should be done during the day time which is considered as the Kapha period.

Ayurveda has also recommended exercises according to body type. For example, Vata types need less exercise, Pitta types need a moderate amount of exercise whereas Kapha types need intense exercise routines.

The top 10 health benefits of running and jogging are:

1. Improve Digestion and Metabolism: Jogging and running leads to the improvement of digestive fire and improve metabolism. They increase blood circulation and increase Peristalsis in the colon and intestine and help in regulating bowel movement. They also support the body’s pathway of detoxification by kindling the Agni (digestive fire) throughout the tissues and improve digestion and elimination.

2. Help in maintaining a balance between body and mind: It is said that a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and good sleep are the three principles of a healthy life. Regular jogging and running not only make the body strong but make the mind positive too. Regular jogging and running make the person mentally strong. The brain cells become more active which leads to better memory and concentration.

3. Stress buster:Regular running and jogging lead to the secretion of Endorphins. The Endorphins are known as the neurotransmitters which help to transmit electrical signals within the nervous system. The Endorphins inhibit the communication of stress and pain to the brain. People who regularly do cycling or jogging have enough quantity of Endorphins which helps them to cope with stress or excessive pain.

4. Increased blood flow: The cardio-vascular activity increase during jogging and running. Therefore, there is an increase in the blood flow to the brain. There is also a supply of essential nutrients such as oxygen and glucose to the brain and other parts of the body.

5. Aid weight loss: Running and jogging are excellent workouts for weight loss as these help in burning calories by working on muscles thus reduce visceral fat. Thus, running and jogging support fast metabolism.

6. Strengthen bones and muscles: Moreover, they also reduce the risk of developing Osteoarthritis and also give strength to the Intervertebral disc. Regular running and jogging help in improving bone density and therefore reduce the risk of Osteoporosis.

7. Provide a good dose of Vitamin D: If you run or jog during the morning time, running and jogging help you to get a daily dose of Vitamin D as well. It will also make one feel energetic for the rest of the day. Most of the time, we do not get proper sun exposure due to our lifestyle. Insufficient Vitamin D leads to weak immunity and weak bones. The sunscreen lotion should not be applied to the skin while going out in the sun for jogging or running.

8. Normalize blood sugar levels: Jogging and running lower the HbA1c values in people with diabetes. The muscles use more glucose during exercise which lowers the blood sugar levels. It helps the body to use insulin more efficiently.

9. Good for women's health: Over-weight women suffer from Poly-cystic ovarian disease (PCOD). Jogging and running improve blood circulation and improve the chances of fertility in females. They also help in balancing hormones in women suffering from PCOD and lower the level of male hormones.

10. Reduce the risk of chronic diseases: Lack of regular physical activity is a primary cause of chronic disorders. Regular jogging and walking improve insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular fitness, regular high blood pressure, and body fat. Thus, they help in maintaining a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

One should not indulge in excessive jogging and running as it can aggravate Vata and Pitta dosha.

Depression in life can have many different forms such as anxious, sad, loss of interest in daily activities, loss of pleasure in hobbies, social withdrawal, feelings of worthlessness, poor concentration, feeling of guilt, etc.

   

People with depression do not seek medical help because they feel that the stigma of a mental health disorder is not acceptable in society and it will hinder their personal as well as professional life. The science of Ayurveda gives us some practical guidelines to stay happy and healthy throughout our lives.

Herbs that are effective in treating depression are:

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is considered as a Rasayana in Ayurveda. It is a powerful herb that assists the body’s natural resistance to stressful conditions by balancing Prana Vata and thus improves mental stability. Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen and enhances the body’s resilience to stress.

 

2. Jatamanasi (Nardostachys jatamansi): It is a high- altitude medicinal plant whose roots are used in various herbal formulations to treat mental weakness. The decoction of this herb is also used in Insomnia, disorders of the Cardiovascular system and it exhibits anti-depressant and anti-convulsant properties.

3. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is considered an important plant in Ayurveda which is traditionally used for various ailments but it is widely used as a neural tonic because of anti-oxidant properties. Brahmi is categorized under the Medhya-Rasayan class herb as it sharpens the intellect and attenuates mental deficits. It is anticonvulsant, anti-depressant, and adaptogenic in nature and useful in Depression, Anxiety, Manic Depressive Psychosis, Sleep Disturbances, etc.

4. Mandukparni (Centella asiatica): Mandukparni commonly known as Gotukola is believed to be responsible for its wide therapeutic actions. This herb is a wonder herb for relieving Anxiety and improving cognition. Ayurvedic practitioners consider it a main herb for revitalizing nerve and brain cells.

5. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi commonly known as Giloy has been used in Ayurveda as Rasayana for ages. Rasayanas are known to impart strength to the tissues.  It has Tridoshshamak properties i.e. it maintains the homeostasis of Doshas during stressful conditions. It is considered as an adaptogen as it increases the resistance of the body to biological, physical, and chemical stress and effective in cardiac debility as well.

6. Shankhpushpi (Convulvulus pluricaulis): All plants of Shankhpushpi herb are known to possess therapeutic properties. It is used in Ayurveda for Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, etc. Shankhpushpi exhibits anti-depressant, tranquilizing, anti-stress, neuro-degenerative, anti-oxidant, and cardiovascular activities. It is found to be effective in reducing different types of stress such as psychological, physical, or traumatic.

7. Tagara (Valeriana wallichii): Tagara is included among the Nidrajanana (sleep-inducing) herbs in the Ayurvedic classical texts. Due to its ushna (hot) potency, it alleviates Vata dosha and relieves insomnia which is caused due to the imbalance of Vata dosha.  The decoction of its root is used for treating Convulsions, Hysteria, and Insomnia. Tagara has the property of calming the mind as it interferes with the brain chemical GABA that communicates the information between the nerve cells in the brain.

 

Lifestyle:

1. Meditation: Meditation is considered as the best medicine for Depression and Anxiety-related disorders. Regular meditation for 20 minutes twice a day is quite effective for the natural treatment of Depression. It helps the person to gain good health and relieves mental, emotional, and environmental stress.

 

2. Massage: Daily oil massage calms the mind and relaxes the body. It improves circulation and allows the toxins to be cleared and balances Vata dosha.

3. Exercise: Moderate exercise and walking during the sunrise help in relieving toxins from the system that lead to stress. It also helps in expelling blocked emotions and hormones out of the body.

 

4. Early to bed, early to rise:  Going to bed before 10:00 pm is essential as enough rest refreshes the mind, and waking up before sunrise is useful in preventing Depression. Waking up late leads to the dullness of mind, poor concentration, and depressed mood.

5. Food: Food that is sattvic in nature should be included in the diet. Sattvic food is unprocessed and grown naturally and it creates Ojas. Fruits such as banana can be taken by the patient as it is known to increase serotonin and tryptophan levels.

The whole world is facing an unprecedented pandemic of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which is caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). No system of medicine has any evidence-based treatment for COVID-19 as yet but interventions are being done worldwide.

In Ayurveda, there is an elaborate description of causation and management of epidemics (Janapadodhwamsa).

It is a fact that Ayurveda has enough possibilities and potential for the prevention as well as for the treatment. People infected with COVID-19 pandemic may or may not have the symptoms.

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Patients can be segregated into four distinct groups:

1. Unexposed asymptomatic group: It comprises the people who are without any apparent symptoms but they are at the risk due to contact history.

• Ayurveda categories this stage as the initial sanchaya-prakopa-prasara stage.

• These people need to be quarantined carefully.

2. Exposed asymptomatic or quarantined- These people are asymptomatic but they test positive for the virus.

• In order to prevent the progression in its initial sanchaya-prakopa-prasara stage, Ayurvedic herbs prove to be quite effective.

3. Patients having mild symptoms—This group involves patients who are tested positive and are experiencing mild URTI symptoms.

• These patients need to be carefully isolated and progress of the disease should be monitored.

• Treatment should be given to balance the vitiated doshas to control the progression.

4. Those having moderate to COVID-19 symptoms—This category comprises high group patients and requires tertiary care from the onset of the disease.

• In addition to tertiary care, Ayurvedic medicines can also be co-prescribed.

Top 5 Herbs to boost immunity and boost COVID-19 are:

Immunity boosting herbs play a vital role for the control of this pandemic as enhancing the body’s natural defense system plays an important role in maintaining optimum health.

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Tulsi is an aromatic herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family.

• The leaves of tulsi boost the immune system, enhancing the immune system.

• This herb has multiple therapeutic actions such as immuno-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory etc.

• It is known to cure fever and help to treat respiratory disorders as it contains a lot of micro nutrients as well.

Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): Giloy is a large, climbing shrub belonging to the Menispermaceae family.

• In Ayurveda, it is used as a Rasayana to improve the immune system of the body and resistance of the body against infections.

• It is used in the treatment of respiratory disorders such as kasa (cough), swasa (asthma), chronic cough, nasal discharge etc.

• Due to its immuno-modulatory properties, antipyretic action and action on respiratory system, giloy can be used as an immune boosting herb in COVID-19.

.Haldi (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is a rhizomatous herbaceous plant belonging to ginger family Zingiberaceae.

• This herb is a powerful immunity booster and has anti-inflammatory properties that help in fighting COVID-19.

• The immunity booster as well as anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are due to the presence of polyphenol curcumin.

• These properties are useful in treating respiratory tract viruses which cause flu, helps in removing sputum and relieves cough.

• Curcumin is highly rich in antioxidants which help in increasing immunity.

. Amalki (Emblica officinalis): In Ayurveda, amla is a very popular herb.

• Amla can effectively help in boosting immunity in COVID-19 as it is the world’s richest source of Vitamin C.

• Vitamin C stimulates the production of antibodies which increases WBC count in the body.

• Amalki is used in the preparation of the very famous Rasayana 'Chyawanprash’. Chyawanprash is used as a health supplement and as a medicine for enhancing immunity and longevity.

• Intake of amla strengthens the trachea-bronchial organs and hence improves the immunity and functioning of the immune system.

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a member of the Meliaceae family and is found in abundance in India. It is widely used in Ayurvedic practice due to its antioxidant, blood purification, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal properties.

• This herb is useful in boosting immunity as it supports the innate immune system ability to self-regulate in times of defense.

• The cooling property of neem calms the Pitta dosha in the body, thus acting as an anti-inflammatory when the body has too much heat.

So, include these herbs in your daily routine as it has become necessary to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection.

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