IMMUNITY

The first line of defense of the body is the skin. It covers us from head to toe and lines all the orafices; eye, ears, nose, digestive tract from mouth to rectum.

Ayurveda takes pride in oleation therapy where we can apply oil to every part of our body, inside and out. As we enter into Vata Season we enter into a period of dryness and coldness. The quality is light and we can feel ungrounded. Due to the dryness and coldness the orafices, especially those that are exposed to the elements are susceptible to these qualities and become compromised causing various conditions and creating a forum for disease to start.

Ayurveda suggests that we keep these areas lubricated throughout the winter for our protection and immunity.

Here's what to do as a regular/daily practice:

A drop of oil can applied to each ear before bed.

A drop of ghee can be  added to each eye before bed.

Three to five drops of basic oil or medicated oil applied to each sinus in the morning, before showering.

We can oil pull (Gandusha) with 2 tbs. of oil. Which means swooshing and gargling every morning after brushing and before eating; for about 10-15 minutes.

Before bathing or showering we can apply a layer of  warm oil (preferably) on our skin and lightly rinse off with soap and water; allowing a residue of oil to remain on the skin.

Ensure that you are cooking daily with oils such as ghee/coconut, even drizzling food with olive oil. (never cooking with olive oil)

Once a month we can conduct a home enema using Fleets kit from the pharmacy. Replace the content with a slightly warmed oil. Clean the nozzle and exchange it with ghee/coconut oil. Insert and hold for about 30 minutes; alternating sides for ten minutes (laying on the left side, right side and on all fours with buttocks elevated and chest descended towards the ground). Basti should be performed under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic professional. Always first discuss risk/benefits with your primary care physician regarding any new health regimen.

WHICH OILS FOR WHO:

Vata predominant types can use sesame. For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema. Nasya could be sesame, ghee or almond.

Pitta predominant types can use Sunflower. For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema. Nasya could be coconut, sunflower or ghee.

Kapha predominant types can use Canola oil. For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema. Nasya could be sesame, canola or ghee.

SCENTED OIL for body massage you can add:

Vata: Tulsi (holy basil), rose, lavender or nutmeg.

Pitta: Sandalwood, geranium, lemongrass or mint.

Kapha: Cinnamon, myrrh, clove or eucalyptus. 

Note: some oils are tri-doshic such as Tulsi, Rose and Sandalwood. Clove and Myrrh are good for Vata as well. 

Disclaimer:
This information is strictly for educational purpose only and not considered medical advice. Always first discuss with your primary care physician before considering any new health regimen.