Journal of Ayurveda (Jan 2020)
Kshara (Alkali) in the prevention and treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019: An ayurvedic specialized pharmacotherapy w.s.r. to the traditional diet of Northeast India
Abstract
Objective: At present, the entire world is fighting against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite all the possible efforts, there is no proven and effective medicine or vaccine discovered till date. There are strong reasons for demanding alternative therapies that could be used in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Data Source and Review methods: An extensive literary and multiple database (Science Direct, PubMed, Springer, and Google Scholar) search was carried out for related published works on kshara and alkali in the domains of Ayurvedic, traditional, and modern knowledge. Kshara (alkali) made of aswagandha, tulasi, and pippali is used as a medicine and a dietetic adjuvant in respiratory diseases in Ayurveda. “Khar” is one of the popular traditional food items of Northeast India, well known for different therapeutics. Kshara (alkaline water), prepared from banana and black gram, contains a rich amount of potassium (K), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe), with pH of 10.22–13.00 and 10.02, respectively. Kolakhar (alkali made of banana) has been found to inhibit the growth of different pathogens in in vitro studies. Result and Discussion: Alkaline environment within the normal range of blood pH positively influences the inflammatory, immune, and antiviral mechanisms of the body, which is said to be one of the reasons to keep the body healthy and immune to disease. There is scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of kshara in treating viral respiratory infections. In vitro studies have demonstrated the inactivation effect of alkaline medium on respiratory viruses. Conclusion: Kshara could be a potential pharmacotherapy and food adjuvant in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
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