One of the oldest medicinal practices in the world, Ayurveda remains reliable and effective to this day! As a holistic practice that focuses on improving the overall health of a human being, Ayurveda takes great care to improve the health of the body as well as the mind and soul. The rejuvenating therapies of Ayurveda are known across the world for their reviving effects, and this thousands of years old medicinal practice offers comprehensive solutions for disorders that are common and severe alike. Seasonal allergies are a nuisance for patients who cannot catch a break each year with symptoms such as a cold, nasal congestion, sneezing, etc. In this article, we are going to discuss the reasons for such allergic reactions and solutions for them according to Ayurveda.
Seasonal allergies and Ayurveda
An allergic reaction is when our immune system takes severe action against substances that are harmless to most of the population. This heightened reaction can prevent us from coming into contact with the allergens because it causes severe symptoms. Seasonal allergies are allergic symptoms that occur during certain periods of the year because that time exposes you to certain allergens in the environment, such as pollen and dust. According to Ayurveda, allergies are linked to the unique disposition of a person and their dosha balance.
The three doshas are one of the central concepts of Ayurveda, and they can influence one’s health. Among vata, pitta, and kapha, each person will have a dominant dosha and even though allergies are an immunity disorder, this primary dosha can point out what kind of allergic reaction can manifest in a person.
Vata: Dominant in the fall and early winter seasons; vata dosha imbalance can manifest itself into allergic symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, muscle aches, headaches, etc. The dry and cold air of this season can also cause respiratory issues; staying hydrated is a key solution for improving these symptoms.
Pitta: Specially dominant during the summer seasons, an imbalance of pitta dosha can cause inflammation, burning eyes, skin issues, sinuses, and rhinitis. Ayurveda uses many plant-based medications, and to treat the pitta imbalance, herbs such as mint and cilantro, which have a cooling effect, are suggested. A diet with anti-inflammatory food items can also help calm the allergic reactions occurring during this season.
Kapha: Kapha dosha is dominant during the spring season, and the imbalance of this dosha can create reactions such as breathing issues, runny nose, headache, cough, and nasal congestion. Exercises and the use of herbs such as ginger, basil, cinnamon, turmeric, and pepper, along with nasal yoga and the regular cleaning of nasal passages, can have a positive impact on these symptoms.
Ayurvedic remedies and tips to relieve seasonal allergies
Ayurveda offers many natural remedies and tips to avoid and relieve your seasonal allergies. As we have mentioned above, your dominant dosha, the imbalance of other doshas, and the seasons all play a role when it comes to your allergies. Having citrus fruits and drinks, using essential oils, and certain anti-inflammatory herbs are all natural remedies to fight such allergic symptoms. Peppermint is another natural remedy for fighting off environmental allergens such as pollen and dust. Other natural ways to avoid seasonal allergies include:
Healthy diet: Allergens can be anything from dust to food items, so the first step is to avoid allergens you know about. A healthy, well-cooked, and nutritious diet can also help you keep away seasonal allergies because it can balance your digestive health and keep away inflammatory reactions. Avoiding dairy products, heavy food items, and too many processed and sugary food items will also improve your gut health and respiratory health.
Hydration: No one needs to tell you that being hydrated properly is good for your health, right?! Not getting enough water can have adverse effects on your overall health and immune system, and it can eventually lead to symptoms such as sneezing and nasal congestion, so be sure to drink enough water every day and regulate your water intake according to the seasons.
Nasal cleaning: Jalneti is a very traditional yogic practice used to clean the nasal area. You can practice this yourself by using a device called a Neti pot and saline water.
Breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation: Practicing breathing exercises such as pranayama and other yoga poses can improve your physical and respiratory health considerably. Practicing meditation and other gentle exercises will enhance your focus and emotional regulation.
Conclusion
Finding the right path for dealing with illnesses such as allergies can be very difficult, but holistic medicinal practices such as Ayurveda can create a whole new perspective on how to deal with them. Instead of treating the symptoms, Ayurveda tends to find the core reasons for illnesses and improve the overall health of an individual. Rasayana Ayurveda Centre is the best Ayurveda hospital in Kerala, offering holistic solutions for lifestyle diseases and immunity disorders. Among the Ayurveda treatment centres in Kochi, we stand out with our exceptional amenities, experienced Ayurvedic physicians, and the wide range of Ayurvedic solutions we offer. Get in touch with us to make your appointment and start a new journey with us to a healthy tomorrow.