Ayurveda and Seasonal Allergies

As we welcome monsoons after the scorching heat of summer, we also have to bear unwanted things like vector-borne diseases and allergies. High humidity, dampness, fluctuating temperature, and increased mold and fungi growth in surroundings gives rise to a lot of seasonal allergies. Colds, coughs, skin issues, and allergies due to insect bites crop up out of nowhere. Although pollen counts are typically lower during the rainy season, a few plants and grasses release pollen that can trigger allergies in susceptible individuals. Pollen allergy may cause symptoms like nasal congestion, itchy throat, and watery eyes.

Ayurveda may be of help when it comes to monsoon-induced allergies. Let us discuss how we can fight allergies with appropriate lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and home remedies to ensure a healthy monsoon experience.

Monsoon season

Monsoon season is called Varsha Ritu on Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, it is believed that the digestive fire (Agni) weakens during Varsha Ritu, leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body, which can exacerbate allergic reactions. Maintaining your health by following an appropriate seasonal regimen is important to manage allergies during this season. Ayurveda recommends balancing the doshas through diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies for allergic reactions.

Respiratory allergies in monsoon: People often suffer from coughs and colds, sinusitis, and worsening of asthma and bronchitis during monsoon. As per Ayurveda, the following measures can be taken to prevent and manage these allergies.

Consume warm, cooked meals that are easy to digest, such as soups, stews, and porridge. These help to balance the doshas and keep the digestive fire (Agni) strong.
Incorporate warming spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cumin, cloves, and cinnamon, which help to clear mucus, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Herbal teas and kadhas are beneficial in this weather. A warm potli of roasted ajwain and kalonji is often kept on the chest and forehead to relieve chest and sinus congestion.
Cold foods and dairy can increase mucus production and aggravate respiratory symptoms. It is best to limit or avoid these during the monsoon.
Herbs like Tulsi (Holy Basil), turmeric, Pippali, mulethi (licorice), giloy are known for their respiratory benefits. Drink warm turmeric milk every day for immunity and protection against monsoon allergies. Tulsi and ginger tea can be taken every day during the monsoon season. Some people like to incorporate tulsi and ginger in their chai.
Nasal Treatments (Nasya) with Anu Taila is useful to prevent allergy. Applying a few drops of Anu Taila (medicated oil) in each nostril can help lubricate nasal passages, prevent drying, and reduce allergic reactions.
Steam Inhalation with eucalyptus oil, tulsi, or turmeric can help clear nasal congestion and soothe the respiratory tract.
Regular use of a Neti pot with saline water helps cleanse the nasal passages and remove allergens.
Pranayama or Breathing Exercises like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing), Bhramari (bee breath), and Kapalabhati (skull shining breath) help strengthen the lungs, clear nasal passages, and improve overall respiratory health.
To boost Immunity, you may consume Chyawanprash regularly. A traditional Ayurvedic jam rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, Chyawanprash strengthens immunity and helps protect against respiratory infections.
Ashwagandha herb supports the body’s response to stress and enhances immunity, making it beneficial during allergy season.
For precaution avoid damp environments as much as possible. Ensure your living space is dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold growth and minimize exposure to allergens.

Skin allergies in monsoon: Eczema, fungal infections, and contact dermatitis are pretty common in monsoon.

Avoid Heavy and Oily Foods. Heavy, oily, and fried foods can increase Kapha and Pitta, leading to more skin issues. Eat light and easily digestible meals for skin health.
Incorporate Cooling Foods. Include cooling foods like cucumber, mint, and bitter vegetables such as bitter gourd, which help to pacify Pitta and reduce inflammation.
Stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water infused with herbs like coriander or fennel seeds to keep the body hydrated and flush out toxins.
Herbal Remedies: Herbs like Neem (Azadirachta indica), aloe vera, turmeric, manjishtha are useful in allergies. Neem and turmeric are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. These can be used as a paste on affected areas or taken internally to purify the blood and reduce skin allergies. Aloe vera gel is soothing and cooling, making it ideal for applying directly to irritated skin. It helps reduce itching, redness, and inflammation. Manjistha is a potent blood purifier and can be consumed in powder or capsule form or used as a topical paste.
Herbal Baths with neem leaves and turmeric can also protect you from skin allergies and relieve symptoms. Sandalwood paste can soothe irritated skin.
Medicated Oils like coconut oil with turmeric, which is naturally cooling and anti-inflammatory, or herbal oils like Kumkumadi Tailam, can nourish the skin and reduce allergic reactions.
Detoxification (Panchakarma) may be useful for skin issues. Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation) helps remove excess Pitta from the body, which is often responsible for skin issues. Raktamokshana (Bloodletting), is another detox method that helps in removing toxins from the blood, thereby reducing skin allergies. These are also performed under professional supervision.
Lifestyle Practices like keeping the skin dry and clean, wearing breathable fabrics, and avoiding damp environments may be helpful in minimizing skin problems in monsoon.

Insect bite allergy in monsoon: Insect population increases in monsoon. There are high chances of insect bites and allergies due to this. It may lead to hives, rashes, redness, and pain.

Herbs like Neem, turmeric, aloe vera, and sandalwood paste can provide some relief from insect bites.
Herbs such as Guggulu (Commiphora mukul), Agaru (Aquilaria agallocha), and Chandana (Santalum alba), etc. have insect-repellent properties that can be used to fumigate the house.
Citronella oil can be used as a natural mosquito repellent.

Apart from these stress management is extremely important for good immunity. Practice regular yoga, pranayama, and meditation to keep yourself calm and peaceful.

Ayurveda is an ancient wisdom that takes a holistic approach to disease management. Following the basic principles of Dinacharya, Ritucharya, and balanced lifestyle can help you lead a healthy life in all seasons.

Always consult an Ayurveda practitioner before starting any supplements and therapies as they can advise what is best for you based on your unique prakriti and constitution.