Ayurvedic viewpoint - Hayfever & Allergies
Hayfever is a pain in the nose! When airborne pollens, dust or chemical irritants overload the system, then the immune system goes on the offensive and tries to protect the delicate mucus membranes by releasing lots of IgE antibodies. These protective cells bind with white blood cells and this causes the release of histamine. Although it stops invasion of the offending airborne critter, it also causes the release of the associated hayfever and allergy symptoms.
Typical symptoms of hayfever & allergies
Alternate blocking and clearing of nasal passage
Symptoms appear and disappear suddenly
Nasal discharge may be thin and watery or thick and heavy
Heavy head
Itchy eyes, nose and throat
Frequent sneezing
Difficulty breathing due to congestion of nasal passages
Weakness and fatigue
Ayurvedic viewpoint
Ayurveda is the traditional medical system of India. It uses natural remedies, diet and lifestyle to give optimum health.
An allergy is the result of how ‘tolerant’ we are to a certain substance. If our personal threshold is overstepped, then the flood-gates are forced open. Ayurveda perceives this function of tolerance as the responsibility of digestion; how much of a specific substance or experience can we digest?
If our digestion becomes impaired we cannot metabolise and ‘digest’ what we are putting into ourselves. This can create a toxic overload that coats our mucus membranes and obstructs the free flow of air. Ayurveda recommends using warming spices to promote digestion and facilitate what we can absorb.
A very good strategy for treating allergies is to strengthen digestion by avoiding sticky and congesting foods such as dairy products, refined sugar and wheat.
Treatment
There are some very effective natural treatments, without the side-effects commonly associated with regular anti-histamines used for hayfever & allergies. Here are some of the recommendations that Ayurveda offers:
Peppermint & Pippali formula - Specially formulated to treat allergies arising from seasonal variations including tree and grass pollens and moulds. It can also help respiratory allergies due to dust, animal dander and chemical sensitivities. It can help to stop sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose. Combining the anti-allergenic wonder herb Albizzia with herbs such as Pippali and Ashwagandha which nourish the nervous system, this is a useful formula for seasonal allergies. Start taking it a month before the time of year that you suffer from allergies.
Organic Chywanaprash - This nourishing elixir is a renowned lung tonic that can help the body’s response to seasonal allergens.
Organic Aloe Vera juice - A natural way of cleansing your liver and helping to reduce allergic response from the immune system. Organic Aloe Vera does not contain sodium benzoate that is so often a causative factor in allergies.
Refresh - peppermint, licorice & rose tea is a delicious blend of herbs including peppermint that is renowned for benefiting hayfever and congested nasal passages.
Nasya Nasal Oil - A decoction of special Indian herbs which is useful for clearing toxins and congestion from the head. Apply 2 drops to each nostril allowing the oil to coat the lining of your nose and protect you from pollen contact.
Some Ayurvedic dietary suggestions
For 3-5 days, drink plenty of hot water with grated fresh ginger or honey, this will help to digest toxins and regulate digestion.
Favour foods that are warm and nourishing but easy to digest such as soups, grains and leafy green vegetables.
Avoid substances which are mucus producing such as dairy products and sugar.
Avoid cold foods such as salads and iced water. These reduce digestive capacity and can create stagnation.
Lifestyle recommendations
Rinsing the eyes with pure organic rosewater is recommended in Ayurveda as it is very cooling and helps clear the irritation and itchiness associated with watery hayfever eyes. (Only use rosewater that is completely fresh, pure and organic and does not contain any other added ingredients).
Testimonial
“I decided that after years of suffering from hayfever I wanted to find a more natural alternative.
With summer approaching, I went to my local health food shop and was recommended to take Peppermint & Pippali before the dreaded season began. I can’t believe what a difference it’s made!
The sneezing, itching and all round irritation of hayfever has stopped and I can actually go outside without my typical endless supply of tissues. The best thing is, I don’t feel drowsy like I did when I took my normal anti-histamines and I feel much better knowing it’s completely natural.”
Jenny, 32, HR Officer
If you are taking medication seek the advice of your doctor.