As the oldest healing science known to man, Ayurveda projects the belief that to achieve true health we must be in physical, emotional and spiritual balance. Here we look at ways in which this ancient medical system can be applied to those suffering from hayfever.
Allergies can show up just about anywhere in your body and create an incredible variety of symptoms, affecting your nose, eyes, throat, lungs, stomach, skin and nervous system. Standard treatment for allergies involves taking antihistamines, decongestants, steroids and allergy shots. While these drugs can be effective, they all have side effects such as weakening of the immune system, drowsiness and nausea as well as becoming less effective over time. Ayurveda can offer a natural way of beating allergies without harming your body.
Dr Prasanna, Ayurvedic Physician at Ayush Wellness Spa, Jersey says “Ayurveda is an ancient science of life originated in India which focuses on the importance of living in tune with nature. At its simplest, ‘dosha’ is your individual bio-energy which needs to be maintained in balance for health”. Ayurveda recommends natural measures in preventing and treating hay fever. Dr Prasanna gives his top tips on how to survive the allergy season the natural way:
• Eat light, freshly cooked and easily digestible food, avoiding excess dairy and wheat.
• Eat organic fruit and vegetables like oranges, radish, peppers and garlic.
• Make your own herbal teas containing ginger, turmeric, cumin seeds and cinnamon and sip 5-6 cups throughout the day.
• A glass of warm water with a piece of lemon and teaspoonful of honey is a useful drink.
• Apply a thin barrier of almond oil, coconut oil or sesame oil around the nasal area.
• Ayurvedic treatments like Nasya (nasal & sinus treatment), Shiroabhyanga (head massage) and Hot stone therapy can be beneficial during hay fever.
• Ease your symptoms by taking quarter teaspoonfuls of turmeric powder mixed with honey twice a day, along with plenty of warm water or herbal teas.
• Breathe easy by practicing Pranayama (breathing techniques) that enhances flow of prana/life force which will help to bring balance back.
• Avoid frozen, cold, processed food and ice cold beverages including alcohol.
Melissa Corkhill is the editor of The Green Parent magazine, mother of two and author of the book Green Parenting
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