Allergies

what are the Ayurvedic treatment for allergies ?

What is an allergy? 

When our body’s immune system comes in contact with any foreign substance that may or may not be harmful to us, it causes allergies in the body. Our body has an immediate action towards foreign substances, resulting in sneezing, coughing, or swelling in a particular area.

The immune system is always ready to combat these foreign substances, such as seasonal pollen, ant or mosquito sting, and even expired or spoiled food. Our immune system produces antibodies, and when an allergen or allergic substance enters the body, the antibodies identify and fight against them.

This results in inflammation or irritation in the particular part of the skin, eyes, nostrils, or even the digestive system. The effects and severity of these allergies vary from person to person.

What are the types of allergies?

When said broadly, there are many types of allergies, and as already said, it usually depends on different person.

Every individual have different types of allergies, and some of the most common ones are :

  • Allergy from drugs or medication –

Here, some particular medicines are involved that behave abnormally in the immune system, likeNimesulide, penicillin etc.Drug allergy results in rashes, hives, and even mild fever, lasting from 2 days to a fortnight, depending on the allergic reaction caused.

  • Allergy from food items –

Specific food acts as an allergy to our body, and these allergies are different in every person. One can be lactose intolerant and face severe symptoms after consuming milk. And other common allergic foods are peanut butter, eggs, fish, and certain nuts.An allergy from food can react from very minimal to severe effects. Like vomiting, loose motions, or even a complete bed rest.

  • Allergy from insects –

This allergy results from a bite or only coming in contact with specific insects. It could cause sting or irritation in the particular part of the bite. Applying some aloe Vera gel or coconut oil after an insect bite can act as a healer and reduce the risk of a severe allergic reaction.

  • Pollen allergy –

There is some specific pollen present in the environment. When the allergic person comes in contact with the pollen through the mouth, nose, or skin, it results in an allergic reaction.And can cause rashes, swelling, or problems of continuous sneezing in the host.

  • Latex allergy –

This allergic reaction is dangerous as it can have harmful consequences on its host. Latex is present in rubber tree fluids or some protein, and after coming in contact with it, you may require medical help immediately.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

Signs and symptoms of allergies depend on the type of allergy the person is suffering from.

Different allergies have a different reaction –

  1. In the case of food allergy:
  • Funny feeling and tingling around the mouth
  • Swelling in tongue, lipsand face
  • Tonsils in throat
  • Hives or rashes
  1. For insect allergy:
  • Large swelling in the area of the sting
  • Cough, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest
  • Hives, itching, and rashes in the body
  1. For drug allergy:
  • Rashes
  • Hives on hands and legs
  • Swelling in face
  • Itching all over the skin.

Other common symptoms of allergies are,

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Sudden change in body temperature
  • loose motions
  • redness
  • coughing
  • Sneezing etc.

What are the causes of allergies in the body?

Usually, the cause of allergic reactions in an individual is when a harmless foreign substance enters the immune system and reacts differently.

Some common reasons that can cause allergies in the body include,

  • Pollen
  • Dust particles
  • ant, mosquito or bee stings
  • Unusual drugs and medication.
  • Latex or some substance that causes an allergic reaction by the touch
  • having asthma, or
  • Are sensitive towards the outside environment.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment for allergies?

When it comes to allergies, there are not many cures available to it. It generally focuses on the prevention of the environment in which an individual is prone to be allergic.

Ayurveda works at the root cause of the problem and reduces the chances of being allergic by following some of these natural steps –

  1. Regular use of some herbs in the daily routine reduces the risk of allergies and stops spreading them in the first place.
  2. Boil a combination of ginger, black peppers, long, and cinnamon in water; consume it before meal regularly.
  3. Avoid cold foods, as they may create problems like indigestion. Foods such as leftover, meat, sugar, packaged foods that may contain preservatives, many dairy products, and heavy drinks must be avoided; they increase the chance of allergies in an individual.
  4. Ayurveda’s primary focus is on a diet that works on healthy and light food.
  5. Add healthy changes in your diet, and always consume warm and freshly cooked food, make sure it is prepared in the minimum amount of oil and spices, and is easy to digest.
  6. Prepare food in ghee or a little amount of olive oil. Add warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, black pepper and turmeric while cooking food; this makes it easier to digest.
  7. Focus on adding fresh and organic fruits or vegetables to the diet regularly.
  8. Avoid caffeine consumption in large amounts. Instead, take ginger tea or herbal tea at the start of the day.
  9. Add yoga and pranayama to the daily routine. At least spend 30 minutes of the day, doing some physical activity.
  10. Maintain a routine of morning walk and soak yourself in sunlight for at least 5 to 10 minutes. It strengthens the system from the inside.