As the grey shroud of pollution enwraps Delhi, NCR and several other cities across India, the daunting challenge of escalating air pollution looms large. The onset of winter heralds the return of a recurring nightmare with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing hazardous levels. For the last few days, pollution levels in Delhi have remained in the ‘critical’ category recording AQI in the ‘400’ range at several locations in and around Delhi.

Pollution affects us both in the short and long term. Its immediate effects include respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, brain health concerns, cancer risks, reproductive and developmental health implications, allergies, skin problems, and potential impacts on mental health.

A study by Greenpeace Southeast Asia Analysis and Swiss firm IQAir claimed that an estimated 54,000 premature deaths in Delhi in 2020 were due to air pollution.

Beat Pollution with Mother Nature:

The ancient Indian science of Ayurveda believes that “food is medicine’ relying on the wealth of herbs, spices, and natural dietary foods provided by Mother Nature or ‘Prakriti’ to fortify our bodies against pollution's damaging effects.

Inspired by Ayurveda, Organic India has identified four major health planks for boosting our resistance to air pollution:

Four Major Healing Planks:

1. Strengthen Immunity: Reinforcing the Body's Defenses

Pollution can weaken the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to a range of infections and illnesses, such as colds, coughs, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Maintaining a diet abundant in fresh fruits, vegetables, and immune-boosting herbs is vital for reinforcing your body's defences.

The Immunity supplement by Organic India, formulated with Ashwagandha, Amla, and Katuki, is known for its immune-boosting properties.

Amla, also known as the Indian Gooseberry, stands as a rich source of Vitamin C and serves as a potent daily supplement to fortify your immune system and bolster metabolism by thwarting cellular damage. This superfood's anti-inflammatory properties not only support heart health but also shield against liver damage. Organic India's Amalaki supplement offers an effective means of integrating this beneficial fruit into your everyday regimen.

An additional daily beneficial inclusion in your diet is Chyawanprash, an ancient Ayurvedic tonic renowned for its blend of vitamin-C-rich Amla with more than 38 healing herbs and fruits that effectively fortify the immune system and boost overall health.

2. Reduce Inflammation: Promote Healing and Rejuvenation

Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter, infiltrates our bodies, inducing oxidative stress and initiating an inflammatory reaction, releasing cytokines that spur chronic inflammation. Prolonged exposure leads to systemic inflammation, impacting not just the respiratory system but overall health.

Numerous potent herbs like Tulsi, Turmeric, Ginger, Ashwagandha, Wheatgrass, and Spirulina are recognized for their robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric stands out as an exceptional contributor to lung health, credited to its robust antioxidants and impressive anti-inflammatory effects. Its primary component, Curcumin, possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, antifungal, and antioxidant capabilities that facilitate healing and repair, potentially aiding in the protection against conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and cancer.

Rich in natural curcuminoids and Trikatu, ORGANIC INDIA’s Turmeric Formula protects the body against the ravages of inflammation.

Looking for a hot, comforting drink for cold winter days? The Turmeric Latte by Organic India offers the natural goodness of turmeric blended into a delicious and comforting drink. With its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing properties, turmeric helps counteract inflammation in the body caused by pollution and other stressors, providing holistic wellness in a cup.

Omega-3-rich fatty acids found in plant-based sources like walnuts, flax seeds and chia seeds are another powerful anti-inflammatory addition, promoting heart, brain, joint, and skin health. Organic India's Flaxseed Oil is another effortless addition to boost your Omega-3 reserves A naturally rich source of omega-3 fatty acids such as are great at lowering the damaging effects of smog and

Among other healing drinks, Green tea combined with the ‘Queen of Herbs’, Tulsi works to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated throats. An extensive range of Tulsi Green Teas help further reduce inflammation, significantly benefiting individuals regularly exposed to air pollution and those grappling with chronic respiratory conditions. Specifically, for individuals dealing with asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis, incorporating green tea with Tulsi into their daily diet proves particularly advantageous, potentially aiding in healing when exposed to pollutants. the cardiovascular system from harmful toxins.

3. Enhance Internal Detoxification and Cleansing of Pollutants

When your body is exposed to air pollution, it can accumulate harmful substances, such as heavy metals, particulate matter, and other toxic compounds. These substances can induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage in various organs, particularly the respiratory system.

Detoxification processes, primarily facilitated by the liver and kidneys, work to eliminate these accumulated toxins from the body. This expulsion of harmful substances helps to reduce the overall toxic burden, allowing the body to repair and regenerate damaged cells and tissues.

The Organic India Breathe Free supplement formulated with herbs like Pushkarmool, Vibhitaki, and Tulsi by Organic India aids respiratory wellness by promoting lung function and purification. Tulsi Detox Kahwa with its zesty, spicy notes is another healing tea that aids detoxification and rejuvenation.

Jaggery, a healthier substitute for sugar and a delightful ingredient in Diwali sweets can help shield you from the detrimental impacts of pollution. Its unique properties aid in expelling carbon particles that may be trapped in the lungs, making it a beneficial dietary addition that can lower the risk of asthma, wheezing, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders. With its natural richness in iron and various essential minerals, jaggery also contributes to boosting haemoglobin levels, consequently alleviating stress on the heart and lungs.

4. Support the Health of Major Organ Systems

Exposure to pollution can significantly impact various organ systems, including the liver and kidneys. Air pollutants, along with toxins present in the environment, can enter the bloodstream and affect multiple organs. The liver is essential in processing toxins; when overloaded by pollutants, it may lead to liver damage or impairment. Similarly, the kidneys, responsible for filtering waste and toxins, can be affected by pollutants, potentially leading to kidney dysfunction or disease.

Organic India's Liver Kidney Care supplements offer rejuvenating benefits, supporting the digestive system and overall health, while Tulsi-Ginger Turmeric Tea enhances immunity in polluted environments.

Arjuna by Organic India offers cardio-protective properties, benefiting heart health and cholesterol levels, and reducing the impacts of pollution on the body.

It’s time for Delhi to reclaim its vibrant skyline and for us to breathe in the essence of this magnificent city, sans the suffocating smog. At the confluence of social and individual measures, addressing the escalating air pollution will demand immediate action through essential measures like fortifying public transportation, alleviating traffic congestion, and implementing rigorous environmental policies and sustainability practices. Simultaneously, it calls for embracing the organic and holistic solutions offered by Mother Nature to protect our health and vitality.