Natural Remedies for Sinus Pain
How to Naturally Soothe the Pain and Pressure Caused by Sinusitis
For the millions of sinus sufferers every winter, "Sudafed, Aisle 4" isn't going to cut it. Here are six strategies to soothe the sinuses without OTC drugs.
Each year, over 30 million adults and children get sinusitis according to the Medline Plus Encyclopedia. When you suffer from sinusitis, the undrained mucus in the sinuses causes pain and pressure and creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can make you more susceptible to viruses and infection. Acute sinusitis can last 2-8 weeks, or even longer, and in some cases the pain and pressure can become chronic. Want to send your sinus pain packing? Check out these surefire tips:
1. Get clean. You gotta flush. Rinse with saltwater twice a day to clear out irritating mucus and kill bacteria. Get a bulb syringe or neti pot (a spouted pot designed for flushing sinuses). Mix ¼ teaspoon of sea salt with 1 cup warm water, then lean over the sink, tilt your head, and let the solution stream through one nostril and flow out the other. Nasal irrigation may feel weird, but studies show that it is the #1 recommendation for sinus health. People who flush get serious relief.
2. Get steamed. Heat some water and add a few drops of eucalyptus, thyme oil or tea tree oil (all have antibacterial properties). Stand over the pot with a towel draped over your head and breathe the steam for 15 minutes to soothe inflamed sinuses and relieve congestion.
3. Get warm. Apply a warm wet washcloth to your nose, cheekbones, and eyes. Warm, moist heat takes the edge off of pain and gentle pressure over the sinuses promotes drainage.
4. Get wet. Humidify. Dryness irritates sinuses, so humidify the air and use a saline nasal spray, too.
5. Don‘t get milk. Milk and wheat are big mucus boosters, so avoid them when sinusitis hits. Avoid inflammatory foods (think saturated and trans fats). Eat plant protein, omega-3 rich fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and the anti-inflammatory herbs ginger and turmeric. Drink lots of water to thin mucus.
6. Get away (from allergens). Avoid common allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold. Install a HEPA filter to clean the air in your bedroom. A humidifier can help reduce congestion, but clean it regularly or mold and bacteria buildup can do you more harm than good. Avoid smoke, chemical fumes and alcohol too; they all swell sinus membranes.
Sinusitis doesn’t have to get the best of you this winter; try these six easy tips and be on your way toward healthier sinuses and a happier winter.
