Expert Lists Out 7 Ayurvedic Self Care Practices To Manage Seasonal Allergies

When a new season approaches, our bodies have to deal with change in temperature, climate and other environmental factors that affect well-being. Seasonal allergies and infections, thus, become prevalent. Ayurveda, also known as the ancient system of medicine from India, is known to offer a holistic approach for managing seasonal allergies. Ayurveda does that by managing the three doshas – Vata, Pitta & Kapha that helps to enhance the overall well-being of the human body. It is better to consider ayurvedic remedies to get rid of seasonal woes. We reached out to Dr Vikas Verma, Director, Shashvat Ayurveda, Chandigarh who shared some self-care practices by Ayurveda that helps to prevent and alleviate seasonal allergies.

Balanced Diet

It is important to follow a Kapha pacifying diet during the allergy season. For the same to happen, try including foods that are warm, light and slightly spicy in nature. Also, reduce the intake of dairy and cold products, also products that are heavy as they exacerbate Kapha imbalance in the body. Dr Verma suggests incorporating items like ginger, turmeric and honey in the diet as they have anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties that work well for our body. 

Also Read: 5 Throat-Soothing Teas To Sip During Allergy Season

Cleansing of the Neti Pot

You must have also heard a lot about the neti pot technique. It is a great way to perform nasal irrigation with the help of saline water. As per Dr Verma, “It is a good practice that helps to remove the allergens, pollutants as well as excess mucus from the nasal passages, hence clearing the nasal area well. For the water that you shall be using, use distilled, lukewarm and boiled/cooled water for the neti pot.”

A Triphala Eye Wash

Doctor suggests rinsing of eyes with a triphala eye wash solution will help to soothe your eyes and also help to reduce the redness and itching of the eyes that is caused especially in the allergy season.

Nasya Oil

“Administration of the nasya oil drops into your nostrils helps to clear the nostrils. This is a herbal oil that will also lubricate the nasal passages and help in the prevention of the intrusion of the allergens,” quotes Dr Verma.

Also Read: Why Is Allergy Testing Important? Read Importance and Types of Tests Available

Watch this video for natural remedies for allergies:

Lifestyle Changes

One of the most important lifestyle changes that should be done is staying hydrated. Including fluids like different types of herbal teas. Some of them are ginger tea, basil tea and chamomile tea will help to clear the mucus and toxins.

Dr Verma also suggests, “One should always follow a daily routine that helps to maintain a balance and also strengthen your immune system. Avoid the exposure to allergens by keeping the windows closed and also staying indoors, especially during the pollen times. Usage of an air purifier is also encouraged during this time.”

Include Pranayama and Yoga

Including breathing exercises like pranayama which helps to clear the respiratory passage and also strengthen the functioning of the lungs. There are a lot of yoga practices that can also be incorporated like the forward bends, twists in the body and inversions that help to relieve the nasal congestion and help in the improvement of respiratory health.

It is important to understand that Ayurveda focusses on individualised approaches, so it is also important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who will guide you through the entire process along with the right amount of medication and manage seasonal allergies.

Taking Of The Herbal Supplements

One should take into consideration taking different Ayurvedic herbs like that of turmeric, triphala or guduchi which also have immune-boosting properties and anti-inflammatory properties as well. However, it is also important that you consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any of the supplements so that they help you with the right dose and condition of the herbs.