Enhancing Immunity through Ayurveda

Enhancing Immunity through Ayurveda by Dr. Thiwantha Nawaratne

Immune system is one of the most important indicators of vitality of an individual. This represents the capacity of an individual to defend their health against physical, emotional and environmental challenges. The vital energy of an individual is represented by Digestion (Efficiency of metabolic function), Elimination (Toxic burden), Energy (Nutrition from food).

Immune system is commonly presented as a defense machinery; however, host defense is only one manifestation of its overall function in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis (equilibrium) and system integrity. It has long been considered to have evolved primarily because it provided host protection from infectious microorganisms and correspondingly survival advantage.

Immune System Divided into Two Major Components:

1. Innate immunity – First line defense comprised of physical barriers and nonspecific immune cells.
   • Skin
   • Mucous lining of nose, mouth, sinus and digestive tract
   • Sweat and tears
   • Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Basophils, Mast cells (non-specific immune cells)
2. Humoral immunity (Adaptive immunity) – Second line defense, activated when a foreign pathogen or antigen gets past the innate immune barriers. It is very specific in targeting.
   • B cell lymphocyte – develops antibodies specific for antigens
   • T-cell lymphocytes – attack and eliminate pathogens
   • Macrophages
   • Natural killer cells

Together, these two types of immunity ensure our physical health. Misregulation of the immune system can be detrimental to health.

Immune System According to Ayurveda

The concept of immune system in Ayurveda extends beyond physiological and cellular components. It includes mental, emotional, and spiritual resilience. It is known as Vyadhikshamathva (natural resistance) in authentic Ayurvedic texts.

Vyadhikshamathva

Denotes the resistance power of the body against the onset of diseases. It is divided into:

• Vyadhi-balavirodhitva: Capacity to restrain the strength of the disease.
• Vyadhi-uthpadakaraprathibandhakatva: Power to prevent the occurrence and reoccurrence of disease.

Bala and Ojas – Indicators of Vyadhikshamathva

• Bala: Physical and mental strength of body resistance.
• Ojas: Influences body’s defense against decay, degeneration, and infection.

The end product or main essence of all tissue elements is strength or energy, called Ojas in Ayurveda.

Bala is Categorized into Three Types:

• Sahaja Bala (Hereditary): Naturally occurring energy.
• Kalaja Bala (Temporal): Immunity influenced by seasons or age.
• Yuktikrita Bala (Acquired): Gained through