Allergies – Ayurveda Treatment

Allergies refers to an exaggerated reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. These foreign substances are usually harmless. But, in a person whose body is prone to allergies, these foreign substances are recognized by the body and one part of the immune system is turned on. Allergy-producing substances are called as ‘allergens’. Examples include pollens, dust mite, molds, danders, and certain foods.

Any substance, whatever its origin, is a possible allergen. Allergens cause the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that all of us have in small amounts. Allergic persons, however, produce IgE in abnormally quantities. Normally, this antibody is important in protecting us from parasites, but not from other allergens.

As per Ayurveda, foods are just aliens when we ingest them. These aliens are treated by the Agni (fire) of the body to change into compatible foods for the body. When the Agni doesn’t work properly, toxins get produced and accumulation of these toxins reduces the immunity of the body and gives rise to the immunity related diseases. Allergies occur when a hypersensitive immune system reacts to a common or unusual substance.

The word allergy is derived from the Greek words “allos,” meaning different or changed and “ergos,” meaning work or action. People prone to allergies are said to be allergic or atopic. Although allergies can develop at any age, the risk of developing it is genetic. It is related to ones family history of allergy. Ayurvedic medicine has also found that eliminating allergens from the body will help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. If an individual suffers from allergies all year long, he/she might want to consider visiting an ayurvedic practitioner. Ayurvedic medicine works on increasing the sensitivity & nervine strength of immunity of the respiratory system .