Ayurveda for Chronic Rhinitis – Natural Relief, Causes & Symptoms

Abstract

Chronic Rhinitis is a persistent inflammation of the nasal lining, leading to symptoms such as nasal blockage, runny nose, sneezing, and post nasal drip.  It is typically categorized into two main types: allergic rhinitis, which is triggered by environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander, and non-allergic rhinitis, which may be caused by irritants, infections, hormonal changes, or environmental factors. Chronic rhinitis significantly impacts a patient’s quality of life, contributing to sleep disturbances, reduced productivity, and an increased risk of sinus infections In this article we will discuss this in detail with its Ayurvedic Aspect and management.

Introduction

Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Chronic Rhinitis is a condition where this inflammation persists for an extended period, usually lasting more than 12 weeks. This is in contrast to acute rhinitis, which is temporary and typically resolves within a few days to four weeks. Allergies are the most common cause of Chronic Rhinitis, but there are several other factors that can contribute to the condition, including

1. Pregnancy
2. Certain Medications
3. Airborne Irritants
4. Smoking
5. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Non-allergic rhinitis can also develop without any identifiable allerns or infections.

Types of Chronic Rhinitis

It is divided into two main groups

1. Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis is also known as Hay fever. It occurs when the immune system Overreacts to airborne Allergens  like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. In response to these triggers, the body releases chemicals, such as histamines, leading to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itching. This exaggerated immune reaction is what distinguishes allergic rhinitis from other types of nasal conditions.

2. Nonallergic Rhinitis

Non-allergic rhinitis is a condition where the nasal passages become inflamed without involving an allergic response. Unlike allergic rhinitis, which is triggered by allergens, non-allergic rhinitis is caused by irritants such as air pollution, smoke, strong odors, weather changes, or certain medications. It can also be linked to hormonal shifts, infections, or conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Chronic non-allergic rhinitis is less common than allergic rhinitis, accounting for approximately 25% of all rhinitis cases.

Causes

Allergic and Nonallergic Rhinitis have distinct causes

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis occurs when airborne allergens trigger an immune system response. These allergens bind with immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the nose, leading to the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation and allergy symptoms

Common causes of Allergic Rhinitis include

1. Pollen (tree, grass, or weed)
2. Dust mites
3. Pet dander
4. Mold spores
5. Cockroach residue
6. Ragweed (particularly in late summer or fall)

Non Allergic Rhinitis

Unlike allergic rhinitis, non-allergic rhinitis does not involve the immune system. It is believed to occur when blood vessels in the nose expand, leading to swelling and congestion. The exact cause of blood vessel dilation is unclear, but it may be triggered by:

1. Environmental irritants or air pollution, such as

1. Perfumes
2. Detergents
3. Strong odors
4. Air pollution
5. Tobacco smoke
6. Weather changes, such as cold or dry air
7. Upper respiratory infections, like the common cold or flu (though these typically cause acute rhinitis)
8. Hot or spicy foods (gustatory rhinitis)

Certain medications, including

1. Aspirin
2. Ibuprofen
3. Beta-blockers
4. Antidepressants
5. Oral contraceptives
6. Overuse of nasal decongestant sprays
7. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy, menstruation, or thyroid disorders
8. Stress
9. Extensive sinus surgeries
10. Structural issues with the nasal passages, such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates and adenoids
11. Other conditions like GERD, asthma, or chronic sinusitis

Symptoms

Chronic rhinitis can impact overall well being.

These symptoms can include:

1. Nasal congestion: A blocked or stuffy nose, often caused by inflammation in the nasal blood vessels and tissues.
2. Rhinorrhea: Excess mucus production leading to a runny nose.
3. Sneezing
4. Itching in the nose, throat, or ears.
5. Allergic Salute
6. Loss or reduced sense of smell
7. Fatigue
8. Coughing
9. Postnasal drip: Mucus draining down the back of the throat.
10. Worsening of other conditions, such as asthma.
11. Sinus Pressure or Pain.
12. Headaches
13. Difficulty Sleeping
14. Throat Irritation
15. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
16. Increased Sensitivity to Triggers.
17. Ear Pressure
18. Difficulty Concentrating

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of chronic rhinitis involves a thorough evaluation to determine its cause and differentiate between allergic and non-allergic types. The process includes:

1. Physical Examination: A thorough examination of the nasal passages, throat, and ears to look for signs of inflammation, nasal congestion, or other abnormalities.
2. Allergy Testing: IgE tests
3. Nasal Endoscopy: A small, flexible tube with a camera is used to inspect the nasal passages and sinuses for structural issues or inflammation.
4. Imaging Tests: CT scans or X-rays to assess the sinuses and nasal passages for any abnormalities, such as a deviated septum or sinusitis.
5. Blood Tests: To check for infections, immune system issues, or allergic reactions.

Treatment

The treatment for chronic rhinitis depends on the underlying cause, whether allergic or non-allergic.

Common approaches include

The treatment for chronic rhinitis depends on the underlying cause, whether allergic or non-allergic.

Common approaches include

1. Allergy Medications

1. Antihistamines
2. Decongestants
3. Intranasal Steroids
4. Leukotriene Modifiers

2. Nasal Irrigation

• Saline Nasal Sprays or Neti Pots

3. Allergen Immunotherapy

• Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy) or Sublingual Tablets: Help desensitize the immune system to specific allergens over time.

4. Non-Allergic Rhinitis Treatment

1. Intranasal Steroids
2. Anticholinergic Nasal Sprays.
3. Decongestants.

Ayurvedic Overview

In Ayurveda, Rhinitis is correlated with Pratishyaya. Pratishyaya, or rhinitis, is one of the most common issues among nasal disorders, often triggered by factors such as the consumption of incompatible foods, a history of allergies, seasonal changes, or even structural abnormalities like a deviated nasal septum or nasal polyps. If left untreated in its early stages, it can progress to Jeerna Pratishyaya (chronic rhinitis), Peenasa (sinusitis), Putinasa (bad odor from the nose), and other associated conditions, eventually leading to Kasa (cough), Swasa (difficulty in breathing), and Kshaya (wasting or weakness).

Causes

This Condition is Caused by

1. Consumption of cold foods and beverages.
2. Exposure to rain, snow, and swimming in water.
3. Eating incompatible food items.
4. Vitiation of Mano Doshas due to excessive anger or fear.
5. Physical factors like Shiroabhighata (head trauma) and Nasaabhighata (nasal injury).
6. Exposure to irritants or allergens.
7. Contact with dust, smoke, cold winds, or sunstroke
8. Staying awake for long periods or overexertion (Atiswapnajagarana).

Symptoms

It’s Symptoms includes

1. Excessive discharge (Sravadhikya)
2. Nasal discharge (Nasanaha)
3. Watery eyes (Netrasrava)
4. High fever (Teevra Jwara)
5. Fatigue (Dourbalya)
6. Severe headache (Teevra Shiroshoola)

Treatment

Ayurvedic Medicines for Chronic Rhinitis are

1. Panchmoola Siddha Ghrita
2. Vyoshadi Churna
3.  Chitraka Hareetaki
4. Haridrakhand
5. Maha Lakshmi vilas rasa
6. Anand bhairava rasa
7. Sitopladi Choorna
8. Marichayadi Yoga

Panchkarma

1. Nasya with Anu Tailam, and Shadbindu Tailam administered through nasal route

Home Remedies

Here are some effective home remedies for rhinitis that can help alleviate symptoms and improve comfort:

1. Steam Inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or use a humidifier to loosen mucus and relieve nasal congestion.
2. Saline Nasal Rinse: Use a saline solution or saline nasal spray to rinse the nasal passages, which helps clear out mucus and allergens.
3. Ginger Tea: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to hot water can help reduce inflammation and ease congestion.
4. Turmeric Milk: Turmeric has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking warm milk with turmeric can help fight infections and reduce inflammation.
5. Peppermint Tea: Peppermint contains menthol, which helps open up nasal passages and clear congestion. Drinking peppermint tea or inhaling steam from peppermint oil can be beneficial.

Herbal Remedies for Chronic Rhinitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a well established GMP certified Ayurvedic company. Their formulations are rooted in traditional Ayurvedic knowledge, aiming to enhance overall health and well-being. These formulations are prepared under the supervision of MD (Ayurveda) scholars. The treatment plans are personalized based on an individual’s specific needs and dosha imbalances, considering factors such as lifestyle, diet, and overall health conditions.

Product Description

1. Aller-G care

This capsule is pure extract of Haridra (Curcuma Longa), Neem (Azadirachta Indica), Shirish (Albizia Lebbeck), Ashwagandha (withania Somnifera),. These herbs possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, rejuvenating, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. They are beneficial in treating rhinitis, allergies, and skin conditions like acne and pimples. Additionally, these herbs act as effective disinfectants, promoting body detoxification by cleansing and eliminating toxins.

Dosage: 1 capsule  twice a day with plain water after a meal

2. Haridrakhand

Haridrakhand is an Ayurvedic formulation containing a blend of potent herbs, primarily designed to treat respiratory conditions like chronic rhinitis. The key ingredients include Haridra (Curcuma longa), known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), which boosts immunity. Musta (Cyperus rotundus) and Pippali (Piper longum) work to clear mucus and improve respiratory function, while Vasa (Justicia Adhatoda) helps with nasal congestion. Together, these herbs help reduce inflammation, clear the nasal passages, and strengthen the immune system, offering relief from chronic rhinitis symptoms

Dosage : 1 tsp twice a day

3. Vikramprash

It is jelly like preparation which is extract of poly herbs like Bilva (Aegle Marmelos), Agnimantha (Premna Mucronata), Syonak (Oroxylum Indicum), Kashmarya (Gmelina Arborea), Patla (Stereospermum Suaveolens) etc. These herbs function together to help balance the doshas and support overall health. Vikramprash has properties that enhance antioxidant activity, modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, strengthen the body, and act as an aphrodisiac. It boosts the body’s ability to fight diseases and promotes vitality.

Dosage: 1 tsp twice a day with milk preferably.

4. Septrin Tablet

This Tablet is composed of Guggul (Commiphopra Mukul), Haldi (Curcuma Linga), Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum), Sonth (Zingiber Officinale), Marich (Piper nigrum), Pippali (Piper Lingum) etc. The formulation helps alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and irritation by improving overall respiratory function, reducing mucus production, and providing long-term relief from recurring flare-ups. Its combination of anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties helps manage the condition effectively.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day

5. Anu Tailam

Anu Tailam is an Ayurvedic nasal oil made from a blend of various herbs and oils. Its key ingredients include Sesame Oil (Sesamum indicum) as the base, providing nourishment and moisture. It also contains Aja dugdha ((Goat’s Milk), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Ushira (Vetiveria zizanoides), and Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Kantkari (Solanum xanthocarpum) and Bala (Sida cordifolia), etc. Anu Tailam moisturizes and lubricates the nasal passages, reducing dryness and irritation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help decrease swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, improving airflow. Additionally, Anu Tailam clears excess mucus, alleviates symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and runny nose, and promotes better respiratory function.

Dosage: 2 drops in each nostril

6. Tulsi Capsule

This capsule is prepared using standardized extract of single herbs Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum). This herb has anti inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It also helps to boost up the immune system and have decongestant effects.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice a day with normal water after a meal

Conclusion

Chronic rhinitis is a persistent condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, causing symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and fatigue. It can be triggered by allergies, irritants, infections, or underlying health conditions. Effective management involves identifying the root cause, whether allergic or non-allergic, and using appropriate treatments such as medications, nasal irrigation, lifestyle adjustments, or immunotherapy. In some cases, surgical intervention may be needed to address structural issues. With proper treatment and care, individuals with chronic rhinitis can lead a comfortable life, minimizing the impact of symptoms on daily activities.