Ayurvedic principles of immunity
Ayurvedic pathophysiology is based on the concept of maintaining physiological balance among the three humors (Tridoshas), five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas), and seven bodily tissues (Saptadhatus). Ayurveda describes various therapeutic approaches for conditions affecting different body systems, with many medicinal preparations derived from natural sources. Classical Ayurvedic texts also discuss the management of epidemics, and define immunity (Bala) as the body's ability to prevent disease and restrict its progression, thereby maintaining homeostasis. The Ayurvedic classification of immunity into Sahaja (innate), Kalaja (chronobiological), and Yuktikrut (acquired) has conceptual parallels with modern immunological classifications.
Ayurvedic preparations have been anecdotally reported to exert immune-enhancing effects in both healthy and ill individuals. Traditional formulations, such as Chyawanprasha have long been used to support health and immunity, reflecting Ayurveda's historical emphasis on host defence and disease prevention.1
Kwatha: Composition and preparation
Kwatha, an aqueous decoction prepared from medicinal plants, is one of the five classical Ayurvedic preparations collectively known as Panchavidha Kashaya Kalpana. It is traditionally prepared by boiling coarsely powdered medicinal ingredients in 16 parts of water until the volume is reduced to one-eighth of the original quantity (1:16 reduced to 1/8), followed by filtration.2,3
Ingredients:
- Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) or Holy Basil
- Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) or Cinnamon
- Sunthi (Zingiber officinale) rhizome or dry ginger
- Krishna Marich (Piper nigrum) or black pepper
- Munakka or Raisins
- Jaggery, honey or lemon juice to taste
Immunity-boosting Ayurvedic Kwathas
Kwatha is a widely used Ayurvedic dosage form, prepared as a decoction of a single herb or multiple medicinal herbs. It is valued for its versatility and is traditionally considered to support effective absorption and assimilation within the body.
- Sahacharadi Kwatha is a well-known Ayurvedic decoction comprising Sahachara (Barleria prionitis), Suradaru or Devadaru (Cedrus deodara), and Sunthi (Zingiber officinale). It is traditionally associated with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, with each constituent contributing to its pharmacological profile. Barleria prionitis is described in Ayurveda as having Kapha- and Vata-pacifying properties and has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, and cytoprotective activities in studies. Cedrus deodara has been investigated for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, while Zingiber officinale is widely studied for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.2
- Ayush Kwatha has gained widespread use, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It contains herbs and spices such as Tulsi, cinnamon (Dalchini), cardamom, ginger (Sunthi), and black pepper (Krishna Marich). Traditionally, these ingredients are considered to pacify Vata and Kapha, stimulate digestion, support immunity, and help eliminate Ama (metabolic waste, according to Ayurvedic principles). Cardamom and black pepper are traditionally used for respiratory complaints and allergic conditions, while cinnamon and ginger support digestive function, which Ayurveda associates with overall health and immune function.
- Haridra Kwatha (Curcuma longa): Turmeric-based decoction traditionally associated with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and other pharmacological properties, including antiviral activity investigated in research.
- Shirishadi Kwatha: Traditionally used for its potential immunomodulatory effects.
- Kadu Kariyatu Kwatha: Traditionally used to support immune function.
- Vasa Kwatha (Adhatoda vasica): Traditionally used for respiratory health and investigated for various pharmacological activities.
- Giloy Kwatha (Tinospora cordifolia): Used in Ayurveda as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) to support general health and immunity. Its potential effects on platelet counts and detoxification require careful interpretation based on clinical evidence.3,4
Conclusion
Ayurvedic Kwathas represent traditional herbal formulations with potential immunomodulatory and supportive health benefits, grounded in the Ayurvedic concept of Bala. Although their ingredients demonstrate various pharmacological properties, further high-quality clinical research is needed to establish their efficacy, safety, and role in supporting immune function.
References:
- Vallish BN, Dang D, Dang A. Nature and mechanism of immune boosting by Ayurvedic medicine: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. World J Methodol. 2022;12(3):132-147. Published 2022 May 20. doi:10.5662/wjm.v12.i3.132. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9157632/
- Gopal S, Ittiachen L. Analysis of quality parameters and preservative concentrations in Sahacharadi Kwatha: A comparative study of three commercial brands. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2024;15(5):101029. doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2024.101029. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11513841/
- Mani, Bisan S, Ambe K. A review article on the significance of Ayurvedic Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana with special reference to immunity. International Journal of Advanced Research Publication. 2026;2(4):1-6. https://www.ijarp.com/myimgup/1699250509IJARP-1765.pdf
- Shivhare V, Tiwari N. Importance of Rasshastra and Bhaisjya Kalpna as immunity booster w.s.r. Kwath & Vati. Eur J Biomed Pharm Sci. 2020;7(6):592-595. https://lnctu.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/Importance-Of-Rasshastra-And-Bhaisjya-Kalpna-As-Immunity-Booster-.pdf