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Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Pollen Allergy
Do you have any of the following allergy symptoms such as coughing, running nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion? If the symptoms are more frequent and bothersome, you may have seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies may include pollen allergies, dust mite allergies, allergies due to animal dander, and mold spores.
With its warm weather and longer days, the spring season is going to knock on our door. Spring brings lush green grass, flowering trees, and pollination. Pollination occurs in the spring when weeds and plants release pollen into the air.
The pollen allergy is a type of seasonal allergy that is caused by these pollen grains. Pollen allergies are caused by spores or pollen discharged into the environment by fungi, grasses, trees, and other plants. To fight this allergy, your body produces IgE, which results in various allergy symptoms.
In this article, we will learn about what a pollen allergy is and how it can be prevented by following home remedies.
What is Allergy as per Ayurveda?
Allergies, according to Ayurveda, are caused by an imbalance of the Doshas, primarily Vata, and Kapha. If your Doshas are imbalanced, allergic reactions can become more severe, and your body may struggle to eliminate stored toxins due to a weakened defense system.
Individuals with Kshavathu who experience chronic periods can develop complications affecting the immune system and leading to respiratory diseases. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, exposure to mist, wind, dust, and sleep disruption worsen nasal disorder symptoms. Allergic rhinitis may result from different immune responses, requiring an anti-allergic strategy for longer-lasting relief.
The Ayurveda approach aims to minimize allergic rhinitis features related to Kshavathu, particularly paroxysmal sneezing. Kshavathu represents more than simple sneezing, encompassing a complex pathology. Effective interventions, including Nasya (nasal drops) and internal medication, are employed to reduce complications and enhance the immune response. The treatment emphasizes nasal mucosa tolerance to aerial allergens for symptom-free living.
The symptoms of allergies vary depending on the allergen; some affect the skin, causing a variety of skin conditions, while others can trigger congestion in the nose and other related respiratory issues. Some food allergies cause digestive disorders, resulting in vomiting, bowel disorders, and a variety of other negative health conditions. The symptoms of certain diseases experienced by different people are determined by the Dosha that is most inflamed.
What is a Pollen Allergy?
Pollen allergy is nothing but an allergic reaction to pollens, which are very tiny yellow grains that plants release every summer, spring, and autumn to fertilize other plants of the same species. The allergen attacks the mucus membranes of the nose and eyes, causing itching in the nose and eyes, teary eyes, a runny nose, congestion, and itching in the inner ear and mouth.
Pollens are small, lightweight, and dry, making them easy to transport for fertilization by wind, insects, birds, and other animals. It's important to note that pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is the most common culprit for causing allergic reactions.
Ragweed is the most common pollen allergen. Other typical sources of weed pollen include pigweed, sagebrush, and tumbleweed. Pollen grains from oak, birch, and cedar trees are also highly allergic.
Pollen allergy is also known as seasonal allergy since it happens during the spring season when Kapha is naturally predominant, and pollens trigger the Kapha dosha in our bodies, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Congestion of the nasal cavities or stuffy nose
- A runny nose
- Production of mucus
- Facial pain due to sinus pressure
Itching in the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth - Irritation in the throat
- Cough
- Teary eyes
- Eyes that are red and swollen
- Sneezing
- Partial loss of smell or taste
- Swollen eyes
- Asthmatic symptoms
Best Ayurvedic Remedies to Calm Your Pollen Allergies
Here are some natural and effective Ayurvedic remedies for pollen allergies.
1. Nasya (nasal instillation of therapeutic oil)
This is a well-known Ayurvedic practice. Preparatory phases like "Pata Sweda" or simple sudation (steaming) over face are traditional Ayurvedic practices to enhance absorption and boost the effectiveness of Nasya, a therapeutic nasal oil instillation. By preparing the body through these methods, Nasya becomes more potent in its healing benefits, promoting overall wellness and balance.
For installation, you can use Anutaila. After brushing your teeth in the morning, place 2 drops of Anutaila in each nostril. It will minimize nasal mucosal inflammation.
2. Perform Jal Neti
The term "Jal Neti" refers to an ancient and traditional yogic nasal cleansing method. This self-practice technique especially balances the body's Kapha doshas, which are the root cause of respiratory ailments.
Take a neti pot with a large spout and fill it with salt water to clear the nasal canal. Now, bend your head sideways and insert the neti pot nozzle into the upper nostril. With your mouth open, gently pour the solution into your upper nose, allowing it to flow down into your lower nostril. This will eliminate the impurities from your nasal passages. This reduces pressure around your head and should be done in the morning before breathing activities like pranayama for the best benefits.
3. Staying Hydrated is Necessary
Your immune system is negatively impacted if your body fails to get sufficient water. This results in the onset of symptoms such as congestion in the nasal passages, a runny nose, and sneezing.
4. Practice Yoga and Pranayama
Yoga and pranayama help strengthen your body's defense system. It protects overall health against seasonal changes and increases respiratory passage resistance.
Pranayama aids in sinus ventilation through mechanical cleaning and anti-inflammatory effects. Yoga is beneficial for stress reduction. It also calms and controls the mind and emotions.
5. Haridrakhand
It is a well-known Ayurvedic herbo-mineral medicine containing Iron (loha bhasma) along with herbal ingredients frequently used to treat allergies. The active ingredient of this formulation is turmeric, which is a natural source of curcumin and has been scientifically demonstrated to be anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. This medication also contains herbs such as black pepper, long pepper, and ginger, which help regulate and strengthen your immune system.
It is most commonly used to treat severe colds, coughs, allergies, asthma, and fever. It alleviates spasmodic and persistent cough. Add one teaspoon of haridrakhand to one glass of hot water and drink it 2-3 times a day on an empty stomach or at least half an hour before food.
6. Amla or Indian Gooseberry
Indian Gooseberry is the richest source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Amla has antiviral properties and boosts the body's immunity. When combined with ginger and honey, amla can be effective in relieving sore throats and colds.
7. Use Ghee to Fight Off Allergies
Ghee has been proven to be useful in reducing the detrimental effects of dust and other environmental allergens on the respiratory passages. Regularly applying ghee to the nasal mucous membrane will drastically decrease allergen interaction with the nasal cavity.
8. Eat Well
During allergy season, avoid foods and drinks that might aggravate symptoms such as nasal obstruction, runny nose, and continuous coughing and sneezing.
Cold, heavy foods, dairy products, refined, sweet, and processed foods are examples of these foods, all of which can have a negative impact on digestive and respiratory health. Instead, experts recommend eating pungent foods such as leafy greens, beans, and lemon.
9. Panchakarma
Panchakarma detoxifies your body by harmonizing the tri doshas and boosts your immune system.
Panchakarma detoxification methods like Vamana, Virechana, Vasthi/Basti, Nasya, and Rakta Moksha are all efficient ways to remove allergens from your body. You will feel relieved, energized, and revitalized after the therapy.
However, the approach for each person is based on their specific allergy symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best home remedy for pollen allergies?
Jalneti, nasya oil, panchakarma, haridrakhand, ghee, eating well, and doing yoga and pranayama are some of the best home remedies to treat pollen allergies.
2. What is the fastest way to get rid of pollen allergies?
Following are some effective ways to get rid of pollen allergies.
- Try to become less exposed to allergy triggers.
- On dry, windy days, stay inside.
- Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling, and other gardening tasks that may expose you to allergies.
- Remove your outside clothing and shower to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
- Wear a face mask when doing outside tasks.
3. What causes pollen allergies?
It is an allergic reaction to pollens, which are very tiny yellow grains that plants release every summer, spring, and autumn to fertilize other plants of the same species. The allergen attacks the mucus membranes of the nose and eyes, causing allergies. Pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds are the most prevalent to cause allergic reactions.
Allergic rhinitis can be caused by either IgE-mediated or non-IgE-mediated immune responses. To ensure long-lasting relief for patients, it's crucial to employ an anti-allergic strategy.
The Final Words
Seasonal allergies have been successfully relieved using Ayurvedic therapies. The entire Ayurvedic approach is completely natural and has no negative effects on the body. Furthermore, if you are suffering from this very common ailment, like a pollen allergy, you must consider trying the home remedies that are described above. This will provide the best and most effective relief from the unpleasant effects of seasonal allergies and can prevent you from becoming infected with serious respiratory infections.
I’ve been exploring unani medicine as an alternative to conventional treatments, and this blog has been incredibly helpful. The articles are well-written and provide a comprehensive understanding of different herbs and their uses. I also appreciate the focus on safety and the reminder to consult with healthcare professionals. It’s clear that the author is passionate about herbal medicine and committed to sharing knowledge. Thank you for this valuable resource!
unani medicine
This article on Ayurvedic home remedies for pollen allergy is a great resource for those seeking natural and holistic approaches to alleviate their allergy symptoms. It’s always empowering to explore traditional remedies backed by centuries of knowledge and experience.