DR. S.V. SINGH, OMBUDSPERSON - E-mail ID: ombudsperson@santosh.ac.in Appointment Notification for the Post of Vice Chancellor

As India witnesses its biggest surge in the number of COVID-19 cases, becoming the fourth worst-hit country worldwide after US, Brazil and Russia, while there are no specific treatments for COVID-19 right now. Most of the people will be able to recover by boosting their immunity. Getting enough rest, staying well hydrated and taking medicines to relieve fever, aches and pains may help in recovery.

Besides, there are some traditional home remedies like Kadha, an ayurvedic drink, recommend by Nutritionists and Dieticians, to boost the immunity before or after COVID-19 infection. Apart from giving immunity the boost, it is claimed that the herbal drink can improve digestion and detox the body. The herbs and spices used in this drink can be especially beneficial during allergic conditions. Patients have given extremely positive feedback and felt rejuvenated after taking this daily immunity drink.

Basically, Kadha is a herbal concoction that may help strengthen the immunity. It is usually prepared using herbs and spices, including Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Turmeric, Giloy, dalchini, kalimirch and shunthi (dry ginger) etc. According to the Ayurveda, these herbs and spices contain several immunity-boosting properties and other healing compounds. So, including this drink in the diet may help to stay healthy and reduce the risk of certain infections. Consuming herbal drinks and taking proper rest might help to survive the deadly viral disease.

The Ayurvedic herb Giloy is a powerhouse of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and prevent inflammation. Also, it purifies blood, boosts immunity, flushes out toxins from the body and fights against bacteria and virus effectively. Consuming Giloy juice can help to get rid of fever, which is one of the signs of COVID-19. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in tackling respiratory problems like cough, cold, and breathing problems.

Ashwagandha, an ancient medical herb provides almost every health benefit, from improving immunity to reducing stress, regulating blood sugar level, and lowering cholesterol. Ashwagandha contains certain bio-actives that interact with SARS-Co-2. This herb contains a natural compound called withanone (Wi-N), that can block the replication process of the novel corona virus and treat the condition.

Tulsi has a special place in Ayurveda and is considered sacred owing to its diverse healing properties. Having anti-microbial properties, Tulsi is extremely useful for treating bacterial and fungal infections as well as immunological disorders like allergies and asthma. It is rich in Vitamin C and Zinc and acts as a natural immune booster, thus keeping infection at bay. Tulsi has natural essential oils like camphene, cineole and eugenol, which will help reduce cold and congestion in the chest. It also acts as a stress buster and has a calming effect on a person.

The medicinal properties in Turmeric, boosts the immune system, even in people with immune disorders. It helps in treating cough and cold. Turmeric, a bright yellow spice commonly used in curries, has many healing properties. Rich in curcumin and essential volatile oils, this great root is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Curcumin has many scientifically-proven health benefits like the potential to prevent Alzheimer's disease, heart disease and cancer.