I SUFFER FROM COLDS AND HEADACHES
Q I’ve had a persistent cold for almost a month. Some days I even suffer from headaches. I have sinusitis. I have been using OTC paracetamol tablets to contain the symptoms. Is there a cure for my condition in ayurveda?
A A runny nose with a thin, watery discharge; nasal congestion, watery and itchy eyes, sneezing, a cough, an itchy nose and throat, sinus pressure, a decreased sense of smell or taste are typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
These may continue as long as you are exposed to the allergens. Non-allergic rhinitis doesn’t usually cause an itchy nose, eyes or throat and is associated with low-grade fever and the symptoms settle down in three to seven days. Environmental or occupational irritants, a change in the weather and infections are common causes of non-allergic rhinitis. When we have allergic rhinitis, our immune system identifies a harmless substance (mostly airborne) as harmful. It then produces antibodies against this, which results in sneezing and a runny nose. Spores from fungi and moulds, pollens, dust mites or cockroaches and dander from pets are common culprits.
The current therapies for allergic diseases focus primarily on pharmacological control of symptoms and suppression of inflammation. The Ayurvedic approach is to balance the immune system. An association between chronic rhinitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also proven. Treatment of GERD can help in such rhinitis conditions.
Some of these home remedies may help sufferers of allergic rhinitis.
• Boil a handful of basil leaves (holy basil leaves are better), a teaspoon of ajwain seeds and 1-2 teaspoons of jaggery in a glass of water and reduce to half and strain. Take 50ml twice daily. Use only ¼ or ½ dose for children.
• Drink ½ glass of milk boiled with one teaspoon of turmeric powder and ½ teaspoon of black pepper powder. You can flavour it with honey.
• Smelling ajwain seeds and black cumin seeds give temporary relief.
• Taking ½ teaspoon of cumin powder mixed with honey is beneficial.
• Lemon juice mixed with honey and warm water may be helpful.
• Taking ¼ to ½ teaspoon of long pepper powder mixed with honey is also an effective remedy.
• Sip warm water frequently. Please consult your doctor before taking home remedies.