Allergies
In Ayurveda, allergy is referred to as Asatmya or Asatmyata. Allergy is caused due to the accumulation of toxins in the body. Ama (toxins) is produced in the body when there is improper digestion, leading to the formation of undigested food particles that can accumulate in the body and cause various health issues, including allergies. However, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all cure for allergies, and the effectiveness of any treatment can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of allergy. Depending on the predominant dosha involved, different types of allergies may manifest. Here, the brief description is given about skin and breathing allergies.
Disclaimer: Kindly consume these herbs after the consent of an Ayurvedic physician.
Ayurveda considers allergies to be caused by an imbalance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Some of the common recommendations include:
- Stress can weaken the immune system and lead to an overreaction to allergens. Practice yoga, meditation, and pranayama to manage stress.
- Practice proper hygiene to prevent the build-up of toxins in the body which includes washing hands after handling pets and other animals, cleaning the body etc.
- Use herbal remedies and supplements, such as turmeric and licorice , to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
- Avoid foods that trigger your allergies, such as milk, wheat, eggs , tree nuts( walnuts and cashews), peanuts and soy, etc.
- Environmental factors such as pollution, smoke, and seasonal changes can also trigger respiratory allergies. Ayurveda suggests using a neti pot or herbal inhalers to clear the nasal passages and reduce exposure to allergens.
The following are the herbs that promote proper digestion:
- Ginger (अदरक)
- Fennel ( सौंफ )
- Triphala (त्रिफला) Combination of Amla, Baheda and Haritaki
- Amla (अमला)
- Baheda (बहेड़ा)
- Haritaki (हरितकी)
- Peppermint (पुदीना)
- Coriander(धनिया)
- Cumin(जीरा)
- Aloe vera(एलोविरा)
- Licorice(नद्यपान)
- Turmeric(हल्दी)
Skin allergies occur when the immune system reacts to an allergen, triggering an inflammatory response in the skin. This leads to various skin symptoms, including itching, redness, rashes, and swelling. Skin allergies are caused by an imbalance of the pitta dosha. It is responsible for support to, and stability of, the body. Pitta Dosha (energy) refers to the energy state of the body and is concerned with the metabolic and biochemical processes which generate heat and energy.
Breathing allergies, also known as respiratory allergies, are caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to inhaled allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, and certain food particles. This overreaction triggers inflammation and produces symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, congestion, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Breathing allergies are caused by an imbalance of the Kapha dosha. Kapha dosha is associated with earth and water. It’s slow, moist, cool, oily, heavy, smooth, and steady in nature and embodies structure, lubrication, and stability in the mind and body.
There are many plants that have anti-allergic properties and may help alleviate allergy symptoms. Here are some commonly used anti-allergic plants:
- Turmeric(हल्दी)
- Ginger(अदरक)
- Holy basil(पवित्र तुलसी)
- Licorice(नद्यपान)
- Ashwagandha(अश्वगंधा)
- Amla(अमला)
- Neem(नीम)
- Guduchi(गुडुची)
- Triphala(त्रिफला)
Image credits:
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TLDR:
Allergies can be caused by an imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Stress can weaken the immune system and cause allergies. There are a variety of herbal remedies, hygiene practices, and foods that can help alleviate allergies. These include turmeric, licorice, ginger, fennel, triphala, amla, baheda, haritaki, peppermint, coriander, cumin, aloe vera, holy basil, ashwagandha, neem, and guduchi. Basically, this shows us the beauty of our mother nature. A single plant has several benefits for many problems. The more we are connected with plants, the more pleasurable, healthier and happy life becomes.
