Effect of Hatha yoga training on rhinitis symptoms and cytokines in allergic rhinitis patients

Abstract

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa in response to allergens. There is evidence that yoga can improve personal health and has positive effects on immune function. However, the effects of Hatha yoga training on rhinitis symptoms and cytokines in patients with allergic rhinitis are still unclear. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Hatha yoga training on rhinitis symptoms and cytokines in allergic rhinitis patients. Methods: Twenty-seven allergic rhinitis patients were randomized into 2 groups: a control group (CON; n = 14) and a yoga group (YOG; n = 13). The CON group continued with normal activities and the YOG group was required to complete a protocol of Hatha yoga training for 60 minutes per session, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Physiological characteristics, allergic rhinitis symptoms, and cytokine secretions were comparatively analyzed before and after yoga training. Results: After 8 weeks, the YOG group had increased peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) and exhibited significantly decreased rhinitis symptoms and nasal blood flow (NBF) compared to pre-test. Moreover, the YOG group had significantly higher nasal secretion of interleukin (IL)-2 than the CON group. Conclusion: The present findings demonstrated that 8 weeks of Hatha yoga training had beneficial effects in allergic rhinitis by improved clinical allergic rhinitis and cytokine profiles.