The Ayurvedic Concept of Kshavathu as Related with Western Concept of Allergic Rhinitis – A Review

Abstract

Individuals with Kshavathu for chronic periods develop long-standing complications which affect the immune system manifested as respiratory diseases. Poor life style habituates such as physical inactivity, exposure to mist, wind, dust, sleep disruption increase are the factors responsible for nasal disorder symptoms and their severity. As allergic rhinitis may results from an IgE mediated or a non- IgEmediated immune response, it is also important to have an anti-allergic strategy  to make the patient symptom- free for a longer period. The attempt is made to minimize the allergic rhinitis features   related to kshavathu such as paroxysmal sneezing, its crucial feature.  Kshavathu not only indicates simple sneezing but a vast pathology exists behind this clinical condition. Kshavathualso is associated with several conditions that affects the patients day- to-day life pressuring the need to understand and identify the interventions that could help in managing the risk factors, especially with healthy individuals who are at risk of immune impairment. The Ayurveda protocol includes Nasya (nasal drops) and internal medication as possible interventions to reduce the risk of complications and improve immune response. Treatment modality emphasis the tolerance of nasal mucosa to the aerial allergens to keep the patient symptom - free. Nasya with Vata Kapha Hara medication and internal medicine which addresses both the factors Agni and elimination of the Doshas should be administered. Therefore, this review paper attempts to explain various consequences of Kshavathu mentioned in classic texts and also enlists the management ofits complications.