Virus: A Vedic Perspective | Causes, Proneness and Tips for Prevention

Even if you were uneducated on viruses previously, you are most likely well-versed on the subject now, given the current COVID19 pandemic. From hand sanitizers to face masks, you are well-equipped with the lifesaving knowledge that is known to prevent disease.

But the concept of viruses and pathogens has been around for centuries, as have various preventative measures and remedies. Today, I would like to introduce you to the concept of viruses from the perspective of the Vedic texts.

Krimi: The Vedic Perspective of Viruses

To understand viruses, we need to start with Biology and, in particular, microbes. Microbiology categorizes microbes into several distinct groups: viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and other microorganisms. Depending on the host and environment, these seemingly innocent critters can become harmful pathogens once they invade the human body. Airborne microbes in particular are easily inhaled, causing mild to serious symptoms as we see in multiple Coronavirus cases today.

My understanding of microbes stems not only from my academic studies in Biology but also my long training as a yogi and Ayurvedic practitioner.

As I learned from studying the Vedic scriptures(written over 5,000 years ago), microbes are known as krimi (“microscopic creatures”). In the Vedas, we see the term sukshmakrimi, which translates to “something that cannot be seen with the naked eye”. We also see the term mahasukshma which describes minute organisms that “can only be seen with a special instrument”. This is truly fascinating because it proves that the ancient Indians knew of the existence of microbes centuries before the microscope was invented! What’s even more fascinating is that the Vedas also describe a particular krimi as “round, heavy and spiky” — which does bare a striking resemblance to how scientists describe a Coronavirus.

A Deeper Ayurvedic Understanding of Viruses

I gauged an even deeper understanding of viruses and their root cause when a stranger approached me in 1980 as I was meditating in Varanasi, India. For reasons unknown, he began talking to me about viruses and parasites, claiming that their true origin is “Lord Shiva’s angry eyes”. Thanks to my Ayurvedic training, I understood what his analogy meant: the anger in the Lord of Destruction’s eyes is a result of excess Pitta (fire), which is also a perfect means by which pathogens can enter the body (think of a tense, dry, inflamed body that is the perfect breeding ground for microbes).

For years, I pondered over the deeper reason behind virus transmission. Why do viruses spread? Why do they so eagerly need a host? I concluded to the following: The virus desires a host simply because it came from one. It is constantly seeking a way to return to that host (its “home”), thus invading any organism that provides a “homely” environment for it to thrive.

Who Is More Prone to Contracting Viruses?

Not all people are equally prone to contracting viruses — and it isn’t just about the varying weakness of individual immunity systems, either. Anything from the way you breathe to the materials that surround you on a daily basis can function as a virus magnet!

The following individuals may be more prone to contracting a viral infection:

• Those of the Kaphadosha or with excess Kapha
• Individuals who are easily angered or irritated
• Individuals who get tired easily or chronically suffer from fatigue
• Sufferers of iron deficiency anaemia or those who simply have low iron levels
• Individuals who lack sufficient deposits of vitamin D
• Sufferers of chronic rhinitis and those with an excessive build-up of mucus in the body (Kapha excess)
• Individuals who do not breathe optimally (bad posture, unaligned breath, sideways inhalation)
• Individuals who have a white-coated tongue
• Inhabitants of homes made of synthetic materials
• Inhabitants of areas where the atmosphere is congested with pollutants and irritants (thus a hub for all sorts of microbes)

Thankfully, there are various natural ways to shield yourself from a potential viral threat or infection.

How to Naturally Prevent Viral Diseases

You may be wondering how to boost your immunity and ward yourself from a viral infection the natural way. Ayurveda, being an all-natural health science with 2000+ years of proven remedial success, can provide some solutions for you.

Since it is currently Winter in Australia, I would recommend the following natural, preventative and antiviral lifestyle changes:

• Up your daily liquid intake (non-dairy).
• Drink herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, lemongrass and thyme.
• Use a netipot to cleanse your nasal passages if you suffer from a chronically stuffed nose.
• Learn to breathe properly with an aligned posture, making sure your breath flows downwards parallel to your torso (use your fingers to measure the flow).
• Use a top-quality tongue scraper to remove coating from your tongue.
• Spend more time in nature and less time indoors, particularly if your house and furniture are synthetic.

Conclusion

The Vedic texts are proof that the ancients knew all about viruses. They state how they are caused, how they behave, and even what they look like.But if we take a deeper look into how viruses really spread, we will find that some people and environments are more prone to contracting them than others.

You can reduce your risk of viral infections a) by acknowledging how prone you are to it and b) via natural means. Small, daily lifestyle changes, like breathing properly and using a neti pot, can considerably contribute to a stronger immune system.

I have a saying that I have learned to live by: Nature always has the solution. Sometimes, that solution is glaringly obvious, like a plant in your back yard, a vegetable in your fridge or a condiment in your cupboard, which makes natural healing even more effortlessly approachable.

Do you use natural preventative measures against viruses? How helpful have they been?

For further advice please call us at the Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre on 1300 552 260.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to substitute medical advice. All information and resources referenced, including medicinal preparations, fitness, dietary and lifestyle recommendations, are based on the opinion of the author. Please consult a medical practitioner if you require advice or are experiencing any worrisome symptoms.