
Ayurveda says that in the springtime, when the weather starts to get warmer, toxins in the body "melt" and can clog up our overwhelmed system that is trying to deal with the pollen, dust, and mould in the air. The good news is that the body has its own natural defence against allergens, and that we can help boost up these defences so that we can face the season strong. Here are some tips:
Add allergy-fighting spices to your diet.
Turmeric is rich in curcumin, a compound that is known to support a healthy inflammatory response. Turmeric can also help improve digestion and balance the flow of bile. Sage, red pepper, cumin and coriander are some other spices that are known to help the body deal with allergens. Sautéing a combination of ground turmeric, cumin and coriander in ghee and using the mixture to season vegetables is a way of incorporating some of these helpful spices into your diet. Try Kapha Churna for a nice blend of Kapha balancing spices.
Keep digestion strong.
Choose fresh foods, rather than packaged, canned, or leftover foods. Drink warm water throughout the day - avoid iced and carbonated beverages.
Follow the Kapha balancing diet
Avoid dairy products, and fried foods.
Flooring
Wherever possible, use hard flooring rather than rugs or carpets in your home. Hard flooring is easier to clean and doesn't collect as much dust.
Windows
Keep windows closed during pollen season.
Clothing
Change clothes after spending time outside.
Use a Himalayan Salt Inhaler.
This new product was recently seen on The Dr. Oz Show. You simply inhale salt air through the mouth piece and exhale through nose for 10 to 15 minutes daily. This air will reduce swelling in the nasal passages. If you suffer with asthma, allergies, or high blood pressure this inhaler will help with all of these conditions.
Use a Nasal Rinse
Use a neti pot and herbal nasya oil to clean your sinus passages. A neti pot is a small container with a spout that you gently place inside your nostrils in order to administer a warm salt water solution. This procedure reduces the concentration of allergens and nourishes the mucous membranes to reduce allergic reactions. If you use a neti pot a couple of times a day, you may be able to avoid using decongestants and antihistamines. Watch a video with instructions for using a neti pot here.
Remedies
Aller-Defense is a great remedy to simultaneously remove toxins from your body while supporting your immunity. These tablets also help block toxic reactions, promote digestion, cleanse the microcirculatory channels (shrotas) and decrease sensitivity to allergens by nourishing and purifying the liver. This herbal formulation is designed for all kinds of allergens, because it promotes the body's overall capability to deal with them. Or look for similar products in your area.