Allergic Rhinitis — Ayurveda

Definition

Allergic Rhinitis is often triggered by environmental allergens (e.g., pollen). Typical features include headache, itchy eyes and throat, watery nasal discharge, and sneezing. From an Ayurvedic lens, these manifestations relate to heightened nervous sensitivity and Kapha involvement.

Causes

Common triggers in classical descriptions include:

Indigestion; suppression of natural urges
Inhalation of smoke, dust, and pollutants
Irregular sleep—staying awake late; daytime sleeping
Cold/chilly exposure; seasonal imbalance
Increased sexual activity during Kapha-aggravating periods

Symptoms

Tickling & irritation in the nostrils
Recurrent sneezing
Body ache, headache, heaviness of head
Watery eyes; runny nose
Cough and hoarseness of voice

Ayurvedic View

Ayurveda emphasizes balancing the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and clearing accumulated ama (toxins). Management includes sinus cleansing, phlegm expulsion, alleviation of the aggravated dosha, and detoxification.

Long-term resolution often involves dietary & lifestyle adjustments and immune support. Panchakarma can be a helpful, structured approach to detoxification and balance.

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

Prefer freshly prepared, warm meals
Avoid stale, ultra-processed, and junk foods
Limit Kapha-aggravating items: dairy, wheat, sugar, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, bananas, oranges, grapefruits
Cover your nose in dusty or cold environments
Use steam inhalation at early signs of congestion
Avoid sleeping in the open; keep warm at bedtime

Home Remedies

Decoction

Licorice–Ginger–Basil

Boil ½ tsp licorice root powder, ¼ tsp black pepper powder, 1 tsp freshly grated ginger and 8–10 basil leaves in 1 cup water; reduce to half. Add ½ tsp sugar; sip lukewarm morning & evening.

Milk Infusion

Ginger & Turmeric

Simmer ½ tsp freshly grated ginger in milk; add ¼ tsp turmeric powder. Take 2–3 times daily for comforting warmth. Turmeric supports immune function.

Immunity

Amla with Honey

Mix ½ tsp amla (Indian gooseberry) fruit powder with 1 tsp honey. Take twice daily.