Allergic Rhinitis (Vata-Kaphaj Pratishyay)

क्षवप्रव्रुत्ति:शिरसोsतिपूर्णतास्तम्भोsगमर्द:परिह्रष्टरोमता।
उपद्रवाश्चापेप्रुथग्विधानरुणांप्रतिश्यायपुर:सरा: स्म्रुता:॥

Ayurvedic Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) : Symptoms, Causes, Types, Do's, Don'ts, Yoga, Ayurvedic : Complete Ayurveda Details

Rhinitis is a short-term and big problem characterized by the symptoms produced by nasal irritation or inflammation. Culprits are small particles like dust, pollen, dirt, germs, mold and microscopic viruses or bacteria, or some environmental factors that act as an allergen that triggers Allergic Rhinitis. The human immune system is well designed to recognize any foreign body. The nasal lining systematically produces mucus, which traps these foreign bodies. This contaminated mucus flows from the front of the nose and drains down the back of the throat naturally.

If the immune system of a person is oversensitive it will react to these foreign bodies and now these foreign bodies are termed allergens. Antibodies are produced to fight against this allergen (antigen). Antigen-Antibody complex developed whenever antigen comes in contact with the nasal passage of your nose and throat internally, these antibodies cause cells to release a number of chemicals, including histamines. The irritated nasal mucous membrane becomes inflamed and produces too much mucous. This thick mucus, or contains irritating substances can flow from the front nasal opening as a sign of a runny nose, or become noticeable from the back, as post-nasal drip, or as a cough for clearing the throat.

Thus resulting in something wrong typical symptoms like continuous sneezing, runny or blocked nose, irritation in nose & eyes and in the throat, headache, febrile body, etc. Arbitrarily, rhinitis lasting less than six weeks is called acute rhinitis, and persistent symptoms are called chronic rhinitis.

Dr. Gupta’s IAFA® suggests taking a detailed examination with an Ayurvedic allergy specialist for understanding the root cause behind the ailment. So, don’t worry about the herbal remedies for allergic rhinitis, natural treatment for allergic rhinitis, and alternative treatment for allergic rhinitis. Consult with Dr. Sahil Gupta (B.A.M.S., M.H.A.) and follow his guideline, you will get complete relief naturally.

Classification of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common chronic diseases and is estimated to affect between 10 to 20 percent of the population in the world.

Allergic rhinitis can be classified into three types:

1. Seasonal Rhinitis

It is also known as Hay fever, which is triggered by exposure to outdoor environmental causes like allergens, such as pollen from plants. The term hay fever is a misnomer in medical science.

NO HAY, NO FEVER SO WHY IT IS “HAY FEVER?”

“Hay fever” is a turn-of-the-century term that has come to describe the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, especially when it occurs in the late summer. Although, the signs and symptoms are not caused by hay, in real ragweed is one of the main culprits. Secondly, seasonal rhinitis is not accompanied by fever.

Causes of Hay Fever or Seasonal Rhinitis

Summer is the main season of production of pollens, so hay fever symptoms are generally at their most intense in summers. Primary triggers of hay fever are:

Grass pollen
Pollen from trees
Weed pollen
Airborne mold

2. Perennial Rhinitis

The term perennial itself means which occurs all year round and symptoms last for an hour or more each day, however, in some cases the severity of the condition will vary over the course of the year in allergens like dust, animal hair, and mold.

Causes of Perennial Rhinitis

Perennial Rhinitis is commonly provoked by allergens:

Dust mite feces
Pet dander, Saliva, urine
Cockroach and other insect feces
Indoor mold

3. Occupational Rhinitis

The term occupational itself means the symptoms of allergic rhinitis only occur in a particular work environment, then this is known as occupational rhinitis. Allergens that cause perennial rhinitis are often involved, such as animal allergies for laboratory and farmworkers.

Causes of Occupational Rhinitis

Environments according to different work are:

Grain dust affecting farmers and agricultural workers
Cement factory workers
Flour affecting bakers
Agro mills and factories
Latex affecting medical workers wearing gloves
Fish and seafood proteins affecting factory and kitchen workers

On the basis of allergic and nonallergic; Allergic Rhinitis is also differentiated into two:-

1. Allergic Rhinitis

The cause is weak immunity and causative factors are Pollen, Dust, Dirt, Mites, Smoke, Strong Odor, etc.

2. Non-Allergic Rhinitis

It is also named Vasomotor Rhinitis. Many odors in sufficiently high concentrations will cause nasal irritation in almost anyone. Vasomotor rhinitis seems to be an exaggeration of the normal nasal response to irritation; In this case, allergens are not culprits.

Irritants that can worsen non-allergic rhinitis:-

Cigarette smoke or wood smoke
Fumes
Humidity
Pollution
Changes in temperature

Ayurveda Concept of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis is compared with Vata Kapha (are bio energies or life forces of the body) Pratishyay (Rhinitis).

In this, Virudha Aahar (wrong food combinations), Asatmya (unsuitable food), and Ama (body toxins) predict allergic conditions. The product of impaired digestion and metabolism is Ama, which affects Rasa (extract of food) and Rakta Dhatu (blood cells) producing Pratishyay. Virudha Aahar likes eating fruits mixed with milk, milk with fish, ice creams after dinner, honey with clarified butter, etc. leads to allergy.

Classification of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Following are the types of allergic rhinitis according to Symptoms:

Vataj Pratishyay – Nasal Congestion
Vataj Pratishyay – Sneezing
Kaphaj Pratishyay – Breathlessness
Kaphaj Vataj Pratishyay – Nasal Discharge
Kaphaj Vataj Pratishyay – Headache

Ayurvedic Reference of Allergic Rhinitis

Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda: Ashtvidh Pariksha (Eightfold Examination)

In Ayurveda, Ashtvidh Pariksha (Eightfold Examination) has its own importance. The disease is diagnosed with Ashtvidh Parikshan. Nadi Pariksha (Pulse Examination), Mala Pariksha (Stool Examination), Mutra Pariksha (Urine Examination), Jihwa Pariksha (Tongue Examination), Shabda Pariksha (Voice Examination), Sparsha Pariksha (Skin Examination), Drika Pariksha (Eye Examination), Akriti Pariksha (General appearance of a person).

In Ashtvidh Pariksha:-

1) Nadi Pariksha or Pulse examination:- Nadi Pariksha or Pulse examination is very important. In Pulse Examination, Ayurvedic Vaidya can analyze:-

1. Current status of the Person‘s Body, Mind, Spirit, and Soul
2. Symptoms of imbalance Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
3. Disease reaction in Human Body.

In Allergic Rhinitis Nadi Rate, Rhythm, Volume, and Force are like Snake & Swan.

2) In Mutra Pariksha (Urine Examination):- Mutra is examined by naked eyes – Urine appears Pandu (Pale), Phenayukta (Foamy) in Allergic Rhinitis (Vata Kaphaj Pratishyay).

3) In Mala Pariksha (Stool Examination):- Mala or Stool is examined by naked eyes – Mala appears Hard, Kapisha (Brown colored).

4) Jihwa Pariksha (Tongue Examination):- Jihwa appears cold, rough, whitish, and sticky.

5) Shabda Pariksha (Voice Examination):- The voice becomes hoarse, guru (heavy), etc.

6) Sparsha Pariksha (Skin Examination):- Appears rough, wet, warm, etc.

7) Drika Pariksha (Eyes Examination):- Eyes appear pluta (watery), snigdha (greasy), kanduyukta (itchy), roudra (reddish, terrifying)

8) Akriti Pariksha (General Appearance):- The overall physique of a person is indicative of a person’s stamina, strength & life forces and Ayurvedic physicians can get information from akriti pariksha or the general appearance of the person.

Causes of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Increase in Kapha Dosha,
Virudha Aahar (wrong food combinations),
Pollen,
Dust,
Poor Digestion,
Pet Animals,
Cold Temperature etc.

Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

क्षवप्रव्रुत्ति: शिरसोs तिपूर्णतास्तम्भोsगमर्द: परिह्रष्टरोमता।
उपद्रवाश्चापेप्रुथग्विधानरुणांप्रतिश्यायपुर:सरा: स्म्रुता:॥
मा.नि.।नासारोग।१५

The above shloka of Ayurveda explains signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis or vata kapha pratishyay, as:-

Sneezing
Headache
Nasal Congestion
Nasal Discharge
Itching in Nose and Oral part
Fatigue
Fever
Loss of Taste, etc.

“What people don’t realize is most ancient Ayurveda Immunization is designed by Acharya Kashyapa to gain natural immunity against allergies. For new borne and the people who have more moderate to severe nasal allergies, raw honey made by forest bees having almost all pollens extract acts as an ayurvedic vaccination.”

– Dr. Sahil Gupta (B.A.M.S., M.H.A.)

Ayurvedic Allergy Specialist
CEO & Founder of IAFA®

Ayurvedic Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis is well known for its recurrence & chronicity. Recurrence of disease happens only when the vitiate dosha has not been eradicated completely. These doshas reside in the body in their latent stage & when they come in contact with aggravating factors give rise to the same disease again.

Viewing this concept, Ayurvedic treatment of Allergic Rhinitis includes avoiding allergens causing the reaction (Nidana Parivarjana), Detoxification (Shodhana), Pacification (Shaman) & Rejuvenation (Rasayana) with below-given treatment measures.

Internal Medications for Allergic Rhinitis

Anand Bhairav Rasa
Tribhuvan Kirti Rasa
Lavangadi Vati
Sitopaladi Churna
Guduchyadi Yoga
Marichyadi Yoga
Vyoshadi Vati
Khadiradi Vati
Anu Thailam

Pipalaydi Nasya
Vidangadi Nasya
Chaturjatak Nasya
Churna Nasya
Chyawanprash Rasayana
Chitrak Haritaki Rasayana
Agastya Haritaki Rasayana
Vyaghri Haritaki Rasayana
Vasa Avaleha

External Therapies for Allergic Rhinitis

Snehana (External oleation): Specially to the forehead with oil.
Swedana (Fomentation): Gentle sudation with hands or upahada swedan.
Dhumapana (Smoking herbal drugs).

Purificatory Therapies for Allergic Rhinitis

Vamana: Sodhana (purificatory) therapy intended for the removal of vitiated Kapha dosha.
Nasya: Nasya has dual action i.e. pacificatory and purificatory & it promotes the strength of indriya.
Vasti: Recommended for correction of Vata.

Single Herbs Used in Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Kantkari (Solanum surattense)
Vasa (Adhatoda vasica)
Madhuyashti (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum)
Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa)

Bibhitaki (Terminalia Bellirica)
Shati (Hedychium spicatum)
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck)
Haridra (Curcuma longa)

Dietary Management of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Pathya (Do’s)

Consume lukewarm water and food
Less spicy light food
Soups

Apathya (Don’ts)

Heavy Meals,
Fermented Food,
Cold Food,
Cold Beverages,
Virudha Aahar (wrong food combinations),
Curd,
White Flour (Maida),
Pickles,
Daily head shower,
Chocolates

Lifestyle Improvement of Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Keep watch and stay away from the Particles which causes irritation or allergy
Take a warm water bath daily
Regularly take nose inhalation steam
Don’t sleep in the daytime, especially after lunch
In cold temperatures, wear warm clothes
Eat slowly and properly for effective digestion
Do regular yoga and exercise daily

Yoga & Asanas in Allergic Rhinitis as Per Ayurveda

Some Yoga poses are specific, it will help to control Allergic Rhinitis. These Yogasanas will improve breathing, fixes intestinal functioning, improve mental state, keep fit and energetic, and decrease the intensity of Allergic symptoms.

Pavanmuktasan
Setubandhanasan
Vrukshasan
Virbhadrasan
Trikonasan
Ardhachandrasan

References

Ayurvedic Aspects of Allergies and Fungal Infections, Edition 2021, by Sahil Gupta, Seasonal Allergy Chapter No. 8, Page No. 50-54.
Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita, Comm. Chakrapanidatta Ed. R.K. Sharma, Bhagwandash, Chowkambha Sanskrita Series, Varanasi, 1984, Sutra Sthana 11/43.
Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita Dalhana Commentary – Nibandhasangraha, edited by Vaidya Jadavaji Trikamji Acharya, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashana, Varanasi, 2012, Sutra Sthana 1/15.
Sharma PV, Dravyaguna vijnana – volume II, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India: Chaukhambha Bharati Academy; 2001.

Article Written By: Dr. Sahil Gupta (B.A.M.S., M.H.A.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How do I Know that I have Allergic Rhinitis?

Answer: One, who has Allergic Rhinitis, will have symptoms like a common cold with heavy sneezing, itching in the nose, throat & eyes, fatigue, etc.

Question: What will Happen if Allergic Rhinitis Untreated?

Answer: It becomes chronic and may lead to complications like chronic nasal obstruction, inflammation, etc.

Question: Is Allergic Rhinitis Serious?

Answer: Allergic Rhinitis causes heavy sneezing, Itching, and irritation in the nose, eyes and in the throat, etc. It can cause sleep problems, interfering with everyday life.

Question: Is there a Permanent Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis in Ayurveda?

Answer: Yes, Ayurveda treats Allergic Rhinitis permanently. 90% of patients who are suffering from allergies can become normal with correct IAFA® ayurvedic treatment. Ayurveda has the potential benefit of relieving a large number of patients from the horrible attacks of allergic reaction in general and allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy) in particular. It focuses on the body’s immune system by reducing hypersensitivity to allergens. After administration of ayurvedic medicines, over a period of time, the patient reacts less aggressively to the triggers and gets better adapted to his environment.

Question: Is taking Antihistamines Daily bad for My Health in Allergic Rhinitis?

Answer: For long-term use, it has many side effects like drowsiness, weight gain, changes in vision, dry mouth, upset stomach, etc.

Question: Can Allergic Rhinitis be Permanently Wiped Off?

Answer: Yes, by IAFA® root cause treatment in allergy disorders you can get permanent relief from this disease. Ayurveda the ancient method of treatment will help you in reducing the frequency of attacks of this disease and can prevent it from leading to different another disease like Asthma or Sinusitis.

Question: Are there any Home Remedies I can follow to Combat Allergic Rhinitis?

Answer: Simple remedial measures such as warm water intake, taking hot herbal tea, or help to clear the airways by unblocking the nose through Jal Neti. Eating food products rich in omega-3 fatty acids like flax seeds (alsi) almonds, walnuts, pumpkin and will lower the risk of developing allergies.

Question: Is Allergic Rhinitis a Contagious Disease?

Answer: Allergic rhinitis is not an infectious disease and never be transmitted from one person to another. The reason for the disease is a hypersensitivity reaction to certain substances, and this trait is individualistic.

Question: How do I know if my Child is Suffering from Allergic Rhinitis?

Answer: Allergic rhinitis usually occurs after years of repeated inhalation of allergens. The most common symptoms to rule out are continuous sneezing with nasal discharge, itching, watering, and redness of the eyes. Inflammation can sometimes spread from nasal passages to the throat and ear producing postnasal drip and discomfort in the ears. Some children can even complain of nasal blockage with mouth breathing at night. However, the final diagnosis can be made only by a broad certified ayurvedic allergist, on careful eight-fold examination and history taking.

Question: What Causes My Allergies to Flare up within the Spring?

Answer: Pollen is the presumably cause. Your immune system is designed to remember the pollen released by various plants. Each type of plant releases pollen at about the same time every year. In the early spring, trees are usually the first to release pollen usually. Grasses come next in the spring and early summer and weeds generally release their pollen in late summer. The specific types of pollen and the time of their release depend upon the local climate and vary around the country. People with hay fever (seasonal rhinitis) are often allergic to more than one type of pollen.

Question: What will Influence the Severity of the Allergic Reaction Season?

Answer: Weather will influence the temporal arrangement and severity of the allergic reactions season. A gentle winter typically ends up in a lot of pollens. The grass season varies the foremost. If the spring is hotter and wetter than usual, then a lot of grass grows, which ends up in a lot of pollen season throughout the late spring and summer. However, the rain will have edges; rain will wash pollens that have already been free out of the air.

Question: I have Always had Normal Nasal (Rhinitis) Symptoms, but this year, I have also Developed Asthma and Food Allergies. Is this a Typical Allergic Response?

Answer: This condition is called oral allergy syndrome. This occurs when cross-reactions between allergy pollen and fresh fruit cause itchiness and swelling in the mouth and throat after eating the food allergen. Although this is usually mild, you should be evaluated by your allergist, because sometimes the reaction can be severe.