If you’re one of the 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies, your symptoms may bloom when the seasons shift. Itchy, watery eyes, a tickly throat, and a stuffy, runny nose can make you dread springing ahead—and falling back. Likely triggers include tree pollen, grass, mold, and ragweed.
Whatever the cause, allergies can make you feel miserable. “One aspect of allergies is that you can be tired or fatigued, so it wipes you out,” says Christina Price, MD, a Yale Medicine allergist and immunologist. The fatigue can confuse the source of your discomfort: Do you have allergies or a cold? It matters because you should treat them differently.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of allergies, exploring what they are, the different types of seasonal allergies, expert insights on managing them, and effective Ayurvedic practices to alleviate symptoms.
UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES: A SNEEZING DISORDER
When you come in contact with a substance that you’re allergic to, called an allergen, your immune system treats it as an intruder. In response, your immune system releases chemicals such as histamines, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins, causing a cluster of allergic symptoms: runny eyes and nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing. The severity of your reaction depends on how much of a threat your body perceives an allergen is.
Common Seasonal Allergy Symptoms:
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Runny nose and eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue
- Coughing
Common Seasonal Allergens and Occurrence:
- Tree pollen—March/April
- Grass pollen—June/July
- Ragweed—Fall
- Mold—Fall
- Perennial allergies (cat hair, dust mites)—Year-round
Did you know?
This year’s tree pollen season started on time compared to 10 years ago, but in more recent past we’ve had a very late start to tree pollen season, owing to much longer winters.
Anne Ellis, chair of Queen’s Division of Allergy and Immunology and clinical scientist at Kingston Health Sciences Centre
SEASONAL ALLERGIES: MORE THAN JUST HAY FEVER
Seasonal allergies, also known as “hay fever” or seasonal allergic rhinitis, occur during specific times of the year when trees, grasses, and weeds release tiny pollen particles into the air to fertilize other plants. People allergic to pollen treat these particles as invaders, releasing chemicals like histamine, leading to allergy symptoms. [ACAAI (2020)]
Signs & Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies:
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose and/or throat
- Nasal congestion
- Clear, runny nose
- Postnasal drip
- Allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, watery, red eyes)
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF SEASONAL ALLERGIES
Pollen isn’t the only potential allergy trigger in the spring. The adage “April showers bring May flowers” is very true in the Midwest.
Did you know?
To prepare for spring allergies, consider starting your medication at least two weeks before symptoms start
Gailen Marshall, M.D., Ph.D., president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
Diagnosing Seasonal Allergies:
If your child shows symptoms like those mentioned above, especially at the same time each year, seasonal allergies might be the cause. Consult your doctor, who may perform an exam and recommend allergy skin testing or a blood test.
Treatment Options:
Treatment depends on symptom severity. Reduce exposure to allergens, close windows, use air conditioning, and stay indoors during high pollen counts. Medications like antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays can help. Allergen immunotherapy may be recommended for long-term relief, involving subcutaneous injections or sublingual immunotherapy. [Emeryk, A., Emeryk-Maksymiuk, J., & Janeczek, K. (2009)]
ALLERGY TEST: UNRAVELLING THE CULPRIT
Allergists perform tests to identify the cause of allergic reactions. Skin tests involve pricking the skin with allergens, while blood tests check for specific antibodies. Both help determine the allergens triggering symptoms. It’s crucial to inform your allergist about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect test results. [Seasonal Allergies at a Glance (2020)]
AYURVEDIC HERBAL PRACTICES FOR ALLERGY RELIEF
1
Amla or Indian Gooseberry:
Amla powder mixed with honey, consumed twice a day, proves effective against allergic rhinitis. Amla is renowned in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties and its ability to combat allergies.
Modern science has shown amla to have hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, and antioxidant properties.
Indian J Clin Biochem. 2008
2
Kashaya Powder:
Ayurveda recommends Kashaya powder for treating allergies. This concoction addresses hypersensitivity and allergic reactions, promoting overall well-being.
Ingredients:
SMITHA KALLURAYA
- 1 Cup Dhania/Coriander Seeds
- 1/2 cup Jeera / Cumin Seeds
- 2-3 tbsp Saunf / Fennel seeds
- 2 tsp Methi Seeds / Fenugreek
- 2 tsp Black Pepper Powder
3
Turmeric Powder:
Regular consumption of turmeric powder (Curcumin) boiled in water with a pinch of salt can relieve allergic rhinitis symptoms. Turmeric, with its anti-inflammatory properties, is a staple in Ayurvedic remedies.
One of the most important aspects of curcumin is an extensive collection of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-tumor properties that possess curcumin high potency for monotherapy or combination therapy, also called adjuvant therapy, to treat various diseases
Therapeutic potency of curcumin for allergic diseases (2022)
4
Cloves and Black Peppercorns:
A combination of cloves and black peppercorns is highlighted in Ayurveda for its efficacy in controlling allergic rhinitis. Ayurvedic practices emphasize the use of spices and herbs for holistic health.
5
Liquorice Root Powder:
Licorice root tea or powder, consumed daily, is recommended in Ayurveda for treating various allergies, including allergic rhinitis. It aids in alleviating symptoms and promoting respiratory health.
Licorice acts as an anti-inflammatory, reducing allergic responses and preventing liver damage.
Plants (Basel). (2021)
7
Haridrakhand:
An Ayurvedic medicine, Haridrakhand, is specifically designed to tackle severe coughs, colds, asthma, and fever. It aids in providing relief from spasmodic cough and chronic cough associated with allergies.
In a 2019 Research “Haridra Khand 6 gm twice a day with warm water was given for 15 days.
Symptoms like sneezing, running nose, itching in the nose, nasal obstruction, hoarseness of voice, itching in palate and throat, and dryness of mouth were relieved completely.”
8
Chyawanprash Rasayana:
Chyawanprash rasayana, a herbal food supplement, incorporates 48 different herbs. It is effective in boosting immunity and aiding in the management of allergies, including allergic rhinitis.
Regular consumption of CP for six months could significantly improve immunity, energy levels, physical fitness, strength, stamina and quality of life in school-going healthy children.
Anc Sci Life. (2017)
A Holistic Approach to Allergy Management
In managing seasonal allergies, a holistic approach that combines conventional medical treatments with Ayurvedic practices can provide comprehensive relief. Understanding the triggers, opting for allergy tests, and adopting lifestyle changes can significantly enhance the quality of life for allergy sufferers. Whether through conventional medicine or time-tested Ayurvedic remedies, the key lies in personalized care and a commitment to long-term well-being.
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