Sinusitis is a sinus infection which results from an inflammation or swelling of the nasal cavities (also called sinuses or sinus cavities). There are some beneficial, time-tested home remedies which can treat Sinusitis naturally, in an effective manner.
In Sinusitis, the tissue which forms the lining of the sinus cavities — that is, the hollow pockets within the bones that surround the nose — becomes inflamed or swollen, and leads to infection. These cavities are normally filled with air, but they get clogged and filled-up with fluid when a sinus infection occurs; thereby leading to the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other germs.
Sinusitis or sinus infection can be very unpleasant. It is much worse than a stuffy nose because it can lead to sinus pain as well as the build-up of mucus. Sinus pain and pressure is commonly experienced by most people at some point of time in their lives. Some of the indications of sinus infection include headache, sinus pain, cold/cough, congestion, earache, yellowish discharge from nose, and breathing difficulty. However, in serious cases, sinusitis can even result in brain fever or meningitis.
The common sinus problems are of four types — (i) Acute sinus, which generally lasts for around 4 weeks; (ii) Sub acute sinus, which lasts for 4-8 weeks; (iii) Chronic sinus, which lasts for 8-12 weeks or longer; and (iv) Recurrent sinus-related inflammation symptom which is typically is followed with several attacks of sinusitis within the span of one year.
Most people affected by Sinusitis in the short term often recover without any prescribed medications or probably take a decongestant for relief from sinus infection. But in the worst cases, Sinusitis can lead to surgery for removal of an abscess which obstructs the sinus cavities.
For effectively managing Sinusitis, some simple home remedies can provide immediate relief to the sufferers and treat Sinusitis naturally. These remedies have been in use since ages because they can provide sinus pain relief by breaking the recurring cycle of sinus pain.
How to Treat Sinusitis Naturally at Home?
The home remedies which can be helpful in tackling the problem of Sinusitis in a natural way mostly involve certain dietary precautions, along with other measures which can be beneficial in building a strong defence against the sinus infection. In addition, these remedies also stress the need to avoid certain foods which can potentially trigger the symptoms of sinus.
Broadly speaking, some food-related tips to treat Sinusitis naturally involve a regular intake of foods which are abundant in Vitamin C; horseradish, ginger, garlic, onions, and chicken broth with vegetables. Meanwhile, food items which should be avoided by people suffering from Sinusitis include rice, meat, strong spices, dairy products, sugar, salt, refined flour, and fried/starchy foods.
Some effective home remedies which can provide relief to individuals suffering from Sinusitis are:
Increased Fluid Intake
One of the best and simplest home remedies for treating Sinusitis is to keep the body hydrated, by increasing the intake of water and other fluids. Mostly, the recommended daily intake of fluids is at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water, tea or juices without sugar. However, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks should be avoided because they can cause dehydration.
Sufficient intake of water and other fluids is an easy way to tackle Sinusitis because fluids can keep the sinus cavities moist. Fluids are very helpful in thinning out the mucus and bringing relief to the irritated sinus cavities.
The inhalation of steam is also an excellent home remedy for treating sinus infection. Steam (hot water vapour) can break up thick mucus and debris stuck in the nose, moisten the sinuses, and clear a blocked nasal passage.
For steam inhalation to be beneficial in Sinusitis, a few drops of Eucalyptus oil or Peppermint oil should be added to a bowl of steaming hot water or to water in a humidifier. Steam should be inhaled by bringing the face down over the water, with a towel draped over the back of the head.
Salt water wash or spray can also be very effective in managing Sinusitis and alleviating sinus pain. A saline wash (with the help of a Neti pot or some other device) can flush the mucus out of the nasal passage by thinning it.
Saline wash is generally considered the first line of defence against the occurrence of Sinusitis. Using a saline solution daily, on a regular basis, is helpful in keeping the sinus cavities moist, and can also be very effective in fighting a cold or allergies.
Turmeric and Ginger Root
To treat Sinusitis naturally, the root of the commonly-used Indian spice turmeric (haldi) and the root of ginger should be brewed in hot tea, in order to loosen the mucus from the clogged nasal passages.
The brewing of turmeric — which is rich in antioxidants and has proven anti-inflammatory properties — and ginger root in hot tea can ease Sinusitis by relaxing sinus pain and pressure; thereby bringing instant relief to the sufferers of sinus infection.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is an amazing natural ingredient with several health benefits. The use of Apple Cider Vinegar is also one of the most effective home remedies for managing Sinusitis.
For best results, 2-3 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar should be added to a cup of hot water or tea, and taken three times a day. This remedy can thin out excessive mucus, and provide relief from congestion and sinus pressure.
The use of pungent spices — like Cayenne pepper — can also be beneficial in treating Sinusitis in a natural way because these spices are widely known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The intake of ‘hot’ and pungent spices such as mustard, curry, horseradish, hot peppers, and wasabi can help in opening the nasal passages, clearing sinuses, and breaking up the congested mucus and draining it out.
Conclusion: Sinus infections are quite common these days, and home remedies are the safest method to treat Sinusitis naturally. These remedies are easy and affordable and are very effective in managing the condition without any antibiotics.