Allergy refers to a hypersensitive reaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can trigger an allergic reaction when inhaled, ingested, injected, or come into contact with the skin. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, food (such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, and shellfish), insect stings, and certain medications.

Mechanism of Allergy

The allergic reaction is a result of the immune system mistakenly identifying a harmless substance as a threat. The first time the body encounters the allergen, it produces a specific type of antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE) to combat the supposed threat. The IgE antibodies attach to certain cells called mast cells, which are found in various tissues throughout the body, especially in places like the nose, throat, lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract.

Upon subsequent exposure to the allergen, it binds to the IgE antibodies on the mast cells, causing them to release various chemicals, including histamine. Histamine and other chemicals are responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

 

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Sneezing, runny or blocked nose (allergic rhinitis)
• Itchy, red, watering eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing
• Rashes (such as hives or eczema)
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes, or face
• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention)

Types of Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions can be classified into several types, depending on the mechanism and the time it takes for symptoms to appear after exposure to the allergen. The most common include:

• Immediate hypersensitivity reactions: These occur within minutes to a few hours after exposure to the allergen and involve IgE antibodies.
• Delayed hypersensitivity reactions: These occur more slowly, typically 24-72 hours after exposure, and are mediated by T cells, a type of white blood cell.

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of allergies often involves a medical history, and physical examination, and may include skin prick tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens.

Treatment can include:

• Avoidance of known allergens: This is the most effective way to prevent allergic reactions.

• Medications: Such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and decongestants to relieve symptoms.

• Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots): This involves gradually exposing the body to increasing amounts of the allergen to build up tolerance over time.

• Emergency epinephrine: For those with severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) can be life-saving in the event of anaphylaxis.

Ayurvedic Treatment:-

In Ayurveda, allergies are caused by an imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). This imbalance can be caused by a variety of factors including diet, lifestyle, environment, and emotional stress. To treat allergies, Ayurveda recommends a combination of diet and lifestyle modifications, herbs, and other natural therapies.

Diet: Foods that are considered to be cooling and calming should be included in the diet. These include foods such as fruits and vegetables. Foods that aggravate allergies should be avoided, such as processed foods, fried foods, and refined sugars.

Lifestyle Modifications: Stress, lack of sleep, and overexertion can all contribute to an imbalance of the doshas and aggravate allergies. To reduce the symptoms of allergies, it is important to practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga and meditation. It is also important to get enough rest and avoid overworking the body.

Herbs: Certain herbs are used in Ayurveda to help reduce the symptoms of allergies. Some of these herbs include licorice, turmeric, ginger, neem, and bhringraj. Herbal remedies can be taken in the form of teas, tinctures, and capsules:-

1. Amla (Emblica officinalis): Amla is a powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation caused by allergies. It is also known to boost immunity and help reduce allergic reactions.

2. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi helps to reduce inflammation and has anti-allergy properties. It is also effective in treating respiratory allergies and asthma.

3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which make it effective in treating allergies. It is also known to reduce congestion and help to clear the airways.

4. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice is known to reduce inflammation and help relieve the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.

5. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is an antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation and has anti-allergy properties. It is also known to boost immunity and help reduce allergic reactions.

6. Tulsi (Holy basil): Tulsi is an herb used in Ayurveda to treat allergies. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent the release of histamine, which is responsible for allergy symptoms.

Other Natural Therapies: Other therapies used in Ayurveda to treat allergies include massage, aromatherapy, and marma therapy. These therapies work to restore balance and reduce inflammation in the body.

It is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any herbs or starting any therapies in order to ensure safe and effective treatment.