Our four pairs of sinus cavities are not something we typically think about unless they are causing us problems, which can be a real headache…literally.
“Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Healthy sinuses are filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.” (webmd.com) Sinus infections can be bacterial, viral, from the common cold, allergies or even caused from having a deviated septum or nasal polyps.
Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Elderberry Syrup are the standard arsenal of winter remedies I recommend which should be taken during an illness and may even prevent a sinus infection from setting in. The following are some more natural remedies that may ease sinusitis should it happen to set in this season.
Essential Oils can help specifically Eucalyptus, Tea Tree and Peppermint. They may be applied or diffused according to directions. Steam Inhalation can be achieved by boiling water on the stove, draping a towel over your head and breathing in deeply. One or two drops of essential oils may be added to the water for further healing properties. Of course, always be cautious around boiling water.
A Neti Pot is a ceramic or plastic pot that helps irrigate and ease inflammation in the sinus cavities by using warm salt water. A special note: if you think an infection is indeed present often apparent due to dark mucous, a drop of Oil of Oregano can be placed in the Neti Pot water. This is a very potent oil that is antiviral and works wonders but use with caution…a little goes a long way. Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, which are two antibacterial and antifungal compounds and is a great choice in fighting infections naturally. It can also be taken orally and I recommend finding a reputable pure source and always follow directions.
Warm and Cold Compresses can help ease sinus pressure alternating between the two every 30 minutes or so. This can also help break up the congestion.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. This helps thin the mucous. Think broths, 100% juice, water with lemon or lime and warm teas. Dairy and sugary drinks should be avoided.
Speaking of warm tea, antiviral herbs can be used to help combat an infection. Tumeric, Horseradish, Ginger Cayenne, Apple Cider Vinegar and Garlic are all great to support sinuses. Recipes for these easy to make teas can be found online…you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen! Raw honey can be added to sweeten your tea and to help boost the infection fighting nutrients!
Lymphatic massage is fairly new to us, but appears to work really well. We have lymph nodes all over our bodies but we focus on the nodes on our face, neck and behind the ears during a cold or sinus trouble. These lymph nodes swell when a cold or infection starts to set in. Massaging the lymph nodes gently in a downward motion toward your throat can help get congestion moving. This gentle massage can be done on any age person and feels quite nice. An instructional video on you tube can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLB6n_R-dus
A visit to a Chiropractor may be in order. I have had our family member repeat this story to us several times because it is truly amazing to me. She had been struggling with infected sinuses for quite a while and did almost everything mentioned above. This person was in pain, could not breath through her nose and was not a happy camper. Somehow she found herself in a chiropractor’s office and he was able to get her congested, packed sinuses to clear by working on her sinuses from the roof of her mouth! She said in a matter of minutes the sinuses drained and she felt like a new person. If interested, I would look for a Chiropractor with high ratings and who has been trained in cranial and sinus methods.
Many people search for natural remedies BEFORE over the counter or prescribed medicine. Remember, in natural health we want to work with the body so it can heal itself, not medicate. But, please do contact your health care provider if you feel the need.
Brooke DeLong, N.D.
