Ayurvedic Line of Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis (VATAKAPHAJA PRATISHAYA)

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic inflammation of the nasal membrane. It occurs when an allergen such as pollen, dust or animal dander is inhaled by an individual with a sensitized immune system. The characteristic symptoms of allergic rhinitis are rhinorrhea, itching, nasal congestion and obstruction. The symptoms of vata- kaphaj pratishaya resembles most of allergic rhinitis. In Ayurveda the concept of allergy is widely elaborted under the concept of Ama, concept of Asatmya & concept of viruddha aahara. The term Ama means uncooked, unripe, undigested and immature material. Ama of an type produced at any stage and in any Dhatu stimulates intrinsic factor which are responsible for allergic disorders. Asatmya to an individual in the form of aahara and vihara when consumed may lead to an altered response in the body of that individual. These manifestation in the form of altered response of the body towards that particular Asatmya substance are that of allergy. Viruddha aahara means combination of two or more food material having antagonist properties which may lead to allergic response. Allergic Rhinitis is well known for its recurrence & chronicity. Recurrance of disease happens only when the vitiate dosha have not been eradicated completely. This doshas reside in the body in their latent stage & when they come in contact with aggravating factors give rise to same disease again. Viewing to this concept the Ayurvedic line of treatment of Allergic Rhinitis includes, avoid allergens causing reaction (Nandan Parivarjan). Detoxification (Shodhan), Pacification (Shaman) & rejuvenation (Rasayana).