A review of Ayurvedic measures for preventing COVID-19 and promoting health during pregnancy

Abstract

Abstract With the fourth year of the pandemic under its belt, the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) disease is no longer deemed a public health emergency, but rather a persistent health issue. COVID-19 is one among the many diseases caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. Two waves of COVID-19 infections have recently emerged in India, with 2.8 million confirmed cases and 1,95,123 fatalities as of April 26, 2021. Typically, individuals have symptoms such as fever, dry cough, and malaise, which usually subside within a few days. However, in rare instances, these symptoms can escalate to respiratory distress, organ failure, and ultimately death. According to the World Health Organization, pregnant women are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and may experience more severe symptoms than the general population. This is owing to their adaptive physiological changes and weakened immunological condition. Additionally, there is an elevated risk of premature delivery. Susceptible populations require special attention, efforts, and care to protect them from the coronavirus. No specific drug has been discovered for pregnant women (COVID-19) to date. Thus, preventive actions are the primary focus worldwide. Considering the current COVID-19 crisis, strengthening one’s immune system is very crucial, and in recent weeks, there has been much interest in Ayush practices that boost immunity. This article describes numerous Rasayana medicines, both single and compound, as well as preventive measures. This study primarily aims to understand the Ayurvedic perspective of COVID-19 during pregnancy and to offer Ayurvedic measures for immune regulation, health promotion, and prevention. By adopting Ayurvedic measures, the immunity of pregnant women can be enhanced, and COVID-19 will be prevented well, which will lessen the burden of the disease worldwide.