What is Allergy?
An Allergy is the body’s overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless, such as dust, pollen, certain foods, medicines, insect bites, or animal dander.
When the immune system mistakes these as harmful, it produces symptoms like sneezing, itching, rashes, or breathing problems.
In Ayurveda, allergy is often linked to the accumulation of Ama (toxins) and imbalance of Doshas (mainly Kapha and Pitta). This leads to hypersensitivity in the body.
Who is at Risk of Allergies?
- Family history of asthma, eczema, or allergies
- Weak immunity or frequent infections
- Living in polluted / dusty environment
- Stress or irregular lifestyle
- Poor digestion & toxin accumulation
- Children and elderly (weaker immunity)
Symptoms of Allergies
- Sneezing, runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Skin rashes, hives, or eczema
- Coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty (asthma)
- Swelling of lips, face, or throat (in severe cases)
- Digestive issues (nausea, bloating, diarrhea) after certain foods
Possible Risks (If uncontrolled)
- Chronic sinusitis or asthma
- Severe skin problems (eczema, urticaria)
- Repeated respiratory infections
- Anaphylaxis (rare, but life-threatening)
Ayurvedic Approach to Allergies
Ayurveda aims to remove Ama (toxins), strengthen immunity, and balance doshas to prevent allergic reactions.
1. Detox & Panchakarma
- Vamana (therapeutic vomiting – useful in Kapha-related allergies like asthma, sinus)
- Virechana (purgation – balances Pitta, good for skin allergies)
- Nasya (nasal therapy – clears respiratory tract, sinus)
- Raktamokshana (blood purification – for severe skin issues, rarely used today)
2. Allergy-Friendly Diet (Pathya Ahar)
- Warm, freshly cooked, light meals
- Herbal teas (ginger, turmeric, tulsi, black pepper)
- Vegetables: bottle gourd, pumpkin, spinach, bitter gourd
- Fruits: pomegranate, apple, papaya (avoid citrus if throat irritation)
- Spices: turmeric, cumin, coriander
Avoid: cold, refrigerated food, excess dairy, fried food, packaged/processed items, excess sweets
3. Daily Rituals (Dinacharya)
- Nasya (a few drops of Anu taila or sesame oil in nostrils daily)
- Steam inhalation with tulsi or eucalyptus leaves
- Oil pulling with sesame/coconut oil
- Regular exercise & pranayama to improve lung capacity
- Keep environment clean, avoid dust exposure
4. Herbs for Allergies
- Turmeric (Haldi) – natural anti-inflammatory
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) – clears respiratory tract & boosts immunity
- Neem – purifies blood, good for skin allergies
- Haridra Khanda (Ayurvedic formulation) – relieves skin & respiratory allergies
- Giloy (Guduchi) – improves immunity
- Mulethi (Licorice) – soothes throat & lungs
5. Yoga & Pranayama
- Asanas: Bhujangasana (cobra pose), Matsyasana (fish pose), Setu Bandhasana (bridge pose)
- Pranayama: Anulom-Vilom, Bhramari, Kapalabhati (clears sinuses)
- Meditation: reduces stress-related flare-ups