Rhinitis
Rhinitis is nasal inflammation from allergies, infections, or irritants; Ayurveda links it to Kapha-Vata imbalance.
About Rhinitis
Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the inside of your nose. This inflammation leads to a variety of unpleasant symptoms that affect your nasal passages and surrounding areas.
In Ayurveda, rhinitis is often referred to as "Pratishyaya" and is attributed to an imbalance of the doshas, particularly Kapha and Vata. Ayurvedic treatment aims to balance these doshas and eliminate toxins (Ama) from the body.
Two types are-
Allergic Rhinitis:
- Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Occurs during specific seasons, usually spring or fall, when pollen counts are high.
- Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: Occurs year-round, caused by allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mould.
Non-Allergic Rhinitis-
- Vasomotor Rhinitis: Triggered by irritants such as smoke, odours, or changes in weather.
- Infectious Rhinitis: Caused by viral or bacterial infections.
- Occupational Rhinitis: Caused by exposure to allergens or irritants in the workplace.
- Gustatory Rhinitis: Triggered by eating spicy foods.
Common Causes
- Allergic rhinitis: Exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mould spores, or certain foods.
- Nonallergic rhinitis: Exposure to irritants like smoke, strong smells, perfumes, dust, or sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Underlying health conditions like chronic sinusitis, hormonal imbalances (pregnancy, menstruation), or medications (nasal sprays, birth control pills) can also be contributing factors.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management-
Diet and Lifestyle-
- Avoidance of Kapha-Aggravating Foods: Avoid cold, heavy, and oily foods. Instead, favor warm, light, and easily digestible foods.
- Warm Fluids: Drink warm water, herbal teas, and broths to help reduce mucus.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation and reduce Kapha.
Herbal Remedies-
- Turmeric (Haridra): Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Can be consumed in warm milk or as a paste.
- Ginger (Adrak): Reduces inflammation and congestion. Ginger tea with honey can be effective.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Has anti-allergic properties. Tulsi tea or chewing fresh leaves can help.
- Licorice (Yashtimadhu): Soothes the respiratory tract. Can be taken as a tea or in powder form with honey.
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in Vitamin C and boosts immunity. Can be consumed as a juice or in powdered form.
Ayurvedic Formulations-
- Chyawanprash: A herbal jam that enhances immunity.
- Sitopaladi Churna: A traditional formulation to relieve respiratory conditions.
- Trikatu: A combination of black pepper, long pepper, and ginger to balance Kapha and aid digestion.
Therapy-
Panchakarma-
- Nasya: Administration of medicated oils or powders through the nostrils to clear nasal passages. Common oils used include Anu Taila and Shadbindu Taila.
- Vamana: Therapeutic vomiting to expel excess Kapha from the body.
- Virechana: Purgation therapy to cleanse the digestive tract.
- Swedana: Induced sweating to eliminate toxins from the body.
- Dhoomapana: Inhalation of medicated smoke to clear the respiratory tract.
Naturopathy-
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from hot water infused with eucalyptus oil to clear nasal passages.
Yoga and pranayama-
- Kapalbhati (Bellows Breath): This breathing technique helps clear congestion and sinuses.
- Anuloma Viloma (Alternate Nostril Breathing): This technique promotes relaxation and can alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Halasana (Plough Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
Home Remedies-
- Eucalyptus Oil: Add a few drops to hot water for steam inhalation to relieve congestion.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix with warm water and honey to help thin mucus and improve sinus drainage.
- Garlic: Has antibacterial properties. Can be added to meals or consumed raw.
- Honey and Lemon: Mix with warm water to soothe the throat and reduce mucus.
- Cinnamon: Add to warm beverages for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Peppermint Tea: Has a menthol effect that can help open nasal passages.
- Carom Seeds (Ajwain): Can be boiled and inhaled as steam to relieve congestion.
Common Symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing (more common with allergic rhinitis)
- Itchy nose (more common with allergic rhinitis)
- Postnasal drip (drainage of mucus down the back of the throat)
- Facial congestion and pressure
- Loss of smell or taste
- Cough (often worse at night)
- Fatigue
- Headache (especially with congestion)
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes (more common with allergic rhinitis)
Recommended Treatments
Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is Rhinitis according to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, Rhinitis is often linked to "Pratishyaya," caused by an imbalance of Kapha and Vata doshas, leading to nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose.
Q: Can Ayurveda cure Rhinitis permanently?
Ayurveda focuses on balancing doshas, removing toxins (Ama), and strengthening immunity. While results vary by individual, consistent treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage and prevent recurrence.
Q: Which Ayurvedic treatments are used for Rhinitis?
Common treatments include Nasya therapy (medicated nasal drops), herbal remedies like Tulsi, Pippali, and ginger, steam inhalation, and diet adjustments to reduce Kapha.
Q: Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for allergic Rhinitis?
Yes, Ayurvedic remedies are natural and generally safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. They help address root causes and reduce dependency on chemical medications.
Q: How long does Ayurvedic treatment for Rhinitis take?
The duration depends on the severity and chronicity of symptoms. Acute cases may improve in days, while chronic Rhinitis may require several weeks to months of care.