Consumption of Natural Products and Ayurvedic Decoctions “kadha” As Immunity-Boosting Measures During the Spread of COVID-19 in Delhi

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a challenge for health-care systems worldwide. Presently for the management and treatment of COVID-19, efficacy of therapeutic drugs is uncertain. Ayurvedic products and decoctions as immunity boosters might help combat this dreaded pandemic. The aim of the present study was to explore the prevalence of consumption of natural products and Ayurvedic decoctions "kadha" as immunity-boosting measures during the initial phase of COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: An online survey was undertaken on the usage of immunity-boosting measures and Ayurvedic decoctions "kadha" among the adult residents of Delhi belonging to different age groups. RESULTS: A total of 540 responses were included with a mean age of 25.9 ± 9.8 years. Approximately, 76% of the study participants used kadha as an immunity booster during COVID-19 pandemic. Among the participants who consumed kadha, approximately 94% were preparing the kadha at home. The most common ingredients being used in the preparation of kadha were Shunthi (ginger)—Zingiber officinale Roscoe (91.0%), Tulsi (holy basil)—Ocimum tenuiflorum L. (88.6%), Kali mirch (black pepper)—Piper nigrum L. (80.5%), Laung (clove)—Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry (77.4%), and Dalchini (cinnamon)—Cinnamomum verum J. Presl (67.2%). With regard to the frequency of consumption of kadha, 32.1% of the participants consumed kadha once daily, whereas 26.8% consumed on alternative days. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the trust and conviction in traditional Indian herbs as well as condiments for combating infections including COVID-19 through Ayurvedic practices.