Ayurvedic Remedies for Seasonal Allergies
Spring is my favorite season. From blooming flowers to juicy fruits, spring is truly a time of beauty and growth.
However, for those prone to seasonal allergies, this time of year can also bring a lot of discomfort.
Thankfully, there are many natural healing remedies for allergies.
While conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management, the ancient practice of Ayurveda seeks to address the root cause of illness by restoring balance in the body.
Ayurveda relies on natural remedies derived from plants, herbs, and spices, harnessing the intelligence of nature to support your body's innate ability to heal itself.
In this guide, we'll explore several powerful Ayurvedic remedies for seasonal allergies that provide natural relief and restore mind-body balance.
1. NETTLE TEA
Nettle tea, made from the leaves of the stinging nettle plant, is a potent herbal remedy for seasonal allergies. Nettle is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation in the nasal passages and ease congestion. Additionally, nettle tea acts as a natural antihistamine, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms like sneezing and itching.
How to Use → Enjoy a warm cup of nettle tea daily to soothe allergy symptoms. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink your nettle tea plain or with a touch of honey for added sweetness.
2. LOCAL HONEY
Local honey is an effective (and delicious!) Ayurvedic remedy for seasonal allergies. Consuming honey produced by bees in your local area can help desensitize your body to pollen allergens, reducing your sensitivity to seasonal triggers. Honey also has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe irritated mucous membranes and support respiratory health.
How to Use → Incorporate a tablespoon of local honey into your daily routine to harness its allergy-fighting benefits. Enjoy on its own, or mix it into warm water, herbal tea, or smoothies for a nutritious treat.
3. TURMERIC
Turmeric is a golden-yellow spice that is used in many cultures for its medicinal properties. It is an excellent support against seasonal allergies. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce allergy symptoms and support your immune function. Adding turmeric to your diet can help alleviate congestion, ease respiratory discomfort, and promote overall wellness.
How to Use → Incorporate turmeric into your cooking by adding it to soups, stews, curries, and stir-fries. You can also sip turmeric tea or golden milk for a soothing, immune-boosting drink.
4. TULSI
Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is revered in Ayurveda for its profound healing properties. This sacred herb has adaptogenic qualities, meaning it helps your body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Tulsi possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and immune-modulating effects, making it another excellent remedy for seasonal allergies. It can help reduce allergy symptoms, boost respiratory health, and enhance your overall wellness.
How to Use → Brew a cup of tulsi tea by steeping fresh or dried tulsi leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink it warm. It also comes in the form of a supplement.
5. NETI POT
The neti pot is a traditional Ayurvedic tool used for nasal irrigation, or nasal cleansing. Stay with me here! Rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution is very effective in providing relief from allergy symptoms. It helps flush out any allergens, irritants, and excess mucus. Regular use of the neti pot can help keep your nasal passages clear, reduce inflammation, alleviate sinus pressure, and support your respiratory health.
How to Use → Fill the neti pot with a saline solution made from distilled water and non-iodized salt. Tilt your head to one side over the sink and gently pour the saline solution into one nostril, allowing it to flow out of the other nostril. Repeat on the other side.
6. OIL MASSAGE
Abhyanga, or oil massage, is a beautiful practice in Ayurveda that offers numerous health benefits — relief from seasonal allergies among them. Massaging warm oil onto your skin helps stimulate lymphatic drainage, improve circulation, and support detoxification, which can help alleviate your allergy symptoms. Sesame oil, in particular, helps balance those more prone to allergies, thanks to its warming and grounding qualities.
How to Use → Warm sesame oil slightly and apply it generously to your body, massaging in circular motions. Focus on areas such as the chest, neck, and sinuses to help relieve congestion and promote respiratory health.
7. DEEP BREATHING
Pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises, are an integral part of Ayurvedic self-care and can be incredibly beneficial for managing seasonal allergies. Deep breathing techniques, such as alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana) and belly breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing), help calm your mind, reduce stress, and clear your nasal passages. Practicing deep breathing regularly can help alleviate allergy symptoms and support a balanced nervous system.
How to Use → Find a comfortable seated position and close your eyes. Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs with air. Exhale slowly and completely through your mouth, releasing any tension in your body. Repeat for several rounds, focusing on the sensation of your breath and allowing yourself to relax fully.
8. HYDRATION
Staying well-hydrated is essential for supporting your body's natural detoxification processes and maintaining optimal health, especially during allergy season. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps thin mucus, keep mucous membranes moist, and flush out allergens and toxins from your body. Herbal teas and warm beverages are a great way to combine the power of additional hydration with soothing herbal relief from allergy symptoms.
How to Use → Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, especially if you're experiencing allergy symptoms. Stay hydrated by sipping on water throughout the day, and incorporate hydrating foods and drinks such as herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Summary
Seasonal allergies can be a source of frustration and discomfort, but Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to finding relief.
By incorporating these Ayurvedic remedies into your daily routine, you can support your body's natural healing processes, reduce allergy symptoms, and enjoy the beauty of spring with more peace of mind.
As a holistic practitioner and health coach, I can support you in identifying any root imbalances that might be contributing to your allergies.
Depending on your individual case, we’ll use a health assessment and functional lab testing to assess your metabolism, hormone imbalances, gut microbiome health, nutritional deficiencies, and toxin exposure.
Then, we'll design your customized holistic health plan that will be tailored to your unique needs and work together to restore balance in your mind and body.
