For this issue of the newsletter I’m taking a break from the Chronic Miasms series to address the pertinent issue of immunity in this time of the global pandemic. The advice the media gives to avoid infection focuses mainly on masks and quarantine. The devastating effects of lockdown on the global economy, unemployment levels and loss of means of livelihood for millions of people are painfully obvious. Not to mention the psychological harm inflicted by remaining isolated for long periods of time. Swami Rama said the capacity for self-healing is inherent in every human being. So maybe it is time to look within and make effort to support and strengthen our inherent immunity in order to heal and shield ourselves from external and potentially malevolent sources of illness.
There are many things you can do to boost your immunity: diet, exercise, breathing exercises, relaxation, meditation and homeopathy. A nutritional diet is basic to good health and immunity and should mainly include alkaline foods: cooked green leafy vegetables, legumes (dal), cauliflower, broccoli, root vegetables, other fresh vegetables, citrus fruits, seasonal fruits, onion, garlic and ginger. Fresh lemon in a glass of water is a good alkaline drink. Foods to be avoided or taken in moderation include: meat, dairy, grains, carbonated drinks, alcohol, coffee, caffeine, sweeteners, refined white flour and sugar. Avoid refined oils, trans fats, palm oil, all processed foods, artificial flavoring, preservatives and chemical additives. Organically grown food is best, and even better if you grow it yourself. Also, food that you prepare at home is always better than food from external sources.
A daily regimen of exercise is a must. It can be as simple as a daily walk outdoors. Hatha yoga is especially beneficial when done on a regular basis. It’s up to you to choose which type of exercise suits you. Exercise is a means of maintaining a healthy heart and optimum weight.
Breathing exercises and relaxation are helpful for controlling and eliminating the effects of stress and daily tensions. The benefits of a daily practice of meditation can be felt on all levels—physical, energy, emotional and mental. And of course, a positive mental outlook is always an aid to personal immunity.
Homeopathy offers several remedies that are effective as anti-virals, particularly Rhus tox and Pulsatilla. More importantly, in times of epidemics and pandemics, the genus epidemicus (the remedy that matches the majority of the most common symptoms manifested by the majority of patients in the current epidemic) is useful to reduce the severity of the symptoms, shorten the length of the course of the illness and even to provide cure. Kali muriaticum taken daily can increase immunity in general. Added benefits to homeopathic treatment are: no side effects, no residual symptoms that may otherwise last for months, general support for the immune system. Of course, you should consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for assistance before taking any remedies. Learn to take care of yourself and enjoy your health!
Dr. Barbara Bova, HOD, Department of Homeopathy