Free distribution of ayurvedic drug Ayush-64 for Covid patients begins in Punjab

Tribune News Service

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Bathinda, May 27

The free distribution of Ayush-64, an ayurvedic medicine effective in treating Covid-19 patients, has started in the state. The first consignment of around 12 lakh tablets has already arrived from the Ministry of Ayush and further distribution through Sewa Bharti (a social service organisation roped in by the ministry) has started in different districts.

This medicine is given to patients who have mild, moderate or no symptoms but are undergoing treatment in home isolation as an adjunct to standard medical care (allopathic medicine).

As per ayurvedic doctors, this medicine, if given with standard care, has proved quite effective in treating patients and also aid in reducing the recovery period.

Ayush-64, a drug developed to cure malaria in 1980, has been recommended by the ministry after thorough research and several trials.

Talking to The Tribune, Dr Sanjeev Kumar, Assistant Director, Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Patiala, said: “We received 12 lakh tablets on May 10 from the Ayush ministry out of which we gave 10 lakh to Sewa Bharti on May 16 for further distribution. Several clinical studies have revealed that the medicine exhibits early clinical recovery of Covid-19 patients without further progression. The medicine is given to patients in the age group of 18-60 years and not to pregnant and lactating women.”

He said: “A total of 1,000 tablets have already been distributed in Patiala, Ludhiana, Fazilka, Bathinda and Sangrur districts and around 2,500 tablets have been distributed from the Central Ayurveda Research Institute’s Patiala centre.”

Pardeep Kumar Monga, state in charge for Ayush-64 distribution who also heads Sewa Bharti, said: “We have already started providing the medicine to patients in a few districts and distribution will be intensified through our 47 centres in the state in the coming days.”