Ayurveda uses a system based on elements and seasons to heal the whole body. As we move in and out of a particular season the body either is accumulating a dosha, aggravating or alleviating a dosha.
- Accumulating means that the dosha is increasing in the body.
- Aggravating means that the dosha is at its peak of accumulation and is in a prime state for an individual to become out of balance if they are not cautious about what combination of elements they take through food, experiences, activities, and beverages.
- Alleviating means the dosha is decreasing and at the same time the next dosha is beginning its process of accumulation.
You can imagine this process like a wheel with each dosha slightly overlapping as the seasons transition through their natural states.
How To Prevent Seasonal Allergies:
The time in which to treat a dosha seasonally is when it is in its accumulation stage before aggravation and imbalance set in. Allergies generally manifest in the springtime, this is when Kapha dosha (made up of the elements of Earth and Water) is its aggravated stage.
- Turmeric, Pippali, Astragalus, and Reishi can be taken as preventative measures to support the immune system to handle the upcoming accumulation of Kapha.
- Nettle and Reshi can be taken upon the onset of a seasonal allergy reaction, like a runny nose, watery eyes, etc.
Herbal prevention for seasonal allergies:
- Nettle: Nettle has antihistamine properties which can aid in mitigating allergic reactions.
- Reishi: anti-cancerous and immune-supporting properties. Please note that although mushrooms are considered *Tamasic, they can still be used as medicine for the right person and at the right time.
- Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.
- Pipali (long pepper): Spice increases the circulation of blood in the body which prevents stagnation and disease.
- Astragalus: Immune tonic herb, Builds *Ojas.
*Ojas is an ayurvedic term to describe a person’s immune system and general strength in their body and mind.
*Tamasic refers to the mental state of dullness and ignorance.
Daily practice for seasonal allergies:
Neti pot: Neti pots are used to cleanse the nasal passageways, this not only physically prevents debris from becoming stagnant in the nasal passages but also can promote mental clarity.
Eyewash: Doing an eyewash is a part of an everyday ayurvedic routine but can also be used for acute conditions like runny/watery eyes. More specific protocols can be advised, although a standard practice for starting out is ½ and ½ rose water/distilled room temp water. Conclusion:
When you are taking care of your body in alignment with the seasons the doshas will still naturally accumulate in the body. However, the accumulation does not manifest into a disease because you took the time to prepare and treat it accordingly. Please note that these are general guidelines and nothing in this article is intended to treat or diagnose. All bodies are different and the best way to treat a specific symptom is to work one on one with an ayurvedic specialist so that they can fine-tune a treatment plan to fit your specific body type and imbalance.