Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen. It is characterized by headache, itchy eyes and throat, runny nose with watery discharge and sneezing. In Ayurveda, such allergies are thought of being caused due to hypersensitivity of the nervous system.

Some of the causes include indigestion, inhalation of smoke and dust, staying awake in the night, sleeping in the daytime, exposure to cold and chilly weather, increased sexual activity, not being in balance with the season, and the suppression of natural urges.

Allergic Rhinitis from an Ayurvedic perspective is caused due to the ama (toxins) present in the body and due to low immunity. Accumulated ama aggravates the levels of Kapha (Water) in the body, giving rise to different symptoms of allergies.

Ayurveda believes in balancing the three doshas present in the human body, thus treating the disease on the whole. Treatment involves clearing the sinuses and expelling phlegm, alleviating the relevant dosha and detoxification. To permanently resolve this disorder, dietary and lifestyle adjustments may be necessary in addition to the strengthening of the immune system. Panchakarma is an effective means of treating Allergic Rhinitis.

• Have freshly-prepared, warm food.
• Avoid stale and junk food.
• Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy, wheat, sugar, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, bananas, oranges and grapefruits should be avoided.
• Cover your nose in dusty or cold surroundings.
• Whenever you feel slight congestion, take a steam inhalation treatment.
• Avoid sleeping in the open and cover yourself properly before going to sleep.