9 Home Remedies To Relieve Sinusitis

In many cases, sinusitis disappears with just a few basic care. However, there are some natural remedies that can help relieve your symptoms. Here we mention the most popular ones.

Sinusitis is a common condition that causes breathing difficulties due to its interference with the functioning of the upper respiratory system. Its origin is related to inflammation of the mucous membranes of the paranasal sinuses. Do you know how to relieve sinusitis?

This condition, which usually occurs acutely or severely, is characterized by the presence of symptoms such as congestion, headaches, and fatigue. It can develop at any time, but it is more common during winter or when there are sudden changes in the weather.

Its main triggers include:

• Flu and cold.
• Respiratory allergies.
• External agents such as rhinovirus and Staphylococcus aureus .
• Nasal septum problems due to contractions or deviation.

The best way to know the exact cause that originates it is through a medical evaluation; however, on a general level there are some natural remedies that can help calm your symptoms. 

The best home remedies to relieve sinusitis

According to information on the Mayo Clinic page, most cases of acute sinusitis resolve on their own. However, if required by your doctor, treatment may include saline nasal spray, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

On the other hand, there are a number of home remedies that can help relieve symptoms according to anecdotal data. However, they should be used with caution, as the evidence on their safety and efficacy is limited. Let’s look at some options.

1. Vaporizations

Steam has been used to help expel accumulated mucus from the nostrils. This, in turn, may help reduce sinus irritation. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove with certainty that they are effective.

What should you do?

• Fill a pot with water, bring it to a boil, and when it comes to a boil, remove it.

• Before it starts to cool down, bend your head over it and cover it with a blanket to inhale the fumes.

2. Rest

Research published in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology , notes that patients with sinusitis may have difficulty falling asleep. Although there are many factors associated with this problem, it is attributed in part to the inflammatory disease process. 

However, ensuring a good quality of sleep can accelerate the relief of this disease, since a good rest is key to strengthening the immune system.

What should you do?

• Sleep at least 7 hours a day, without interruptions.
• In doing so, try to maintain an upright position with your head slightly raised to facilitate breathing.

3. Eucalyptus

Cineole, a terpenoid oxide present in eucalyptus oils, has shown benefits for sinus relief. According to data in a study published in ACTA Otorhinolaryngologica Italica , there is evidence of the anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and decongestant properties of this plant.

What should you do?

• This remedy can be done with the leaves or using essential oil.
• Prepare an infusion of eucalyptus and, covering yourself with a blanket, inhale the vapors.

4. Mint

In alternative medicine , peppermint has been used to calm sinus congestion and thus reduce sinus symptoms.

What should you do?

• You can ingest it through an infusion or prepare a vaporization by adding a few mint leaves to the water.

5. Mallow

Through research published in 2011 it was concluded that mallow has antiseptic properties. Also, in this case, its anti-inflammatory properties relieve sinus swelling and reduce obstruction.

What should you do?

• You can dissolve it in water to take it as an infusion, but you should do it in a moderate way, since it has a slight laxative effect.

6. Rosemary

Another remedy that can help ease congestion and sinus symptoms is rosemary. In this case, we propose to take advantage of it through vaporizations.

What should you do?

• Prepare an infusion of the plant and, before it cools, inhale its steam.

7. Poultice of radishes

Although there is no evidence to support its effectiveness, radish has been popularly recommended to facilitate mucus clearance and clear the airways. With the application of a poultice these properties can be used to relieve sinusitis and congestion.

Ingredients

• 1 onion
• 6 radishes

What should you do?

• Crush the onion and radishes into a paste and spread it with gauze over the sinuses.

8. Garlic drops

A popular remedy for the discomfort caused by sinusitis is a few drops made with garlic. However, in the absence of evidence, it is not known if they are safe to apply. In any case, below we highlight what the remedy consists of.

What should you do?

• Crush a garlic, dilute it in water and apply 5 drops of the liquid in each nostril.
• Repeat the treatment 2 or 3 times a day until the symptoms disappear.

9. Special infusion to relieve sinusitis

An effective way to relieve sinus symptoms from the inside is by consuming a special infusion made with ginger, eucalyptus, and honey.

Ingredients

• ½ lemon.
• Grated ginger (5 g)
• Eucalyptus leaves (10 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 4 teaspoons of honey (25 g)

What should you do?

• Bring a cup of water to a boil and add the ginger and eucalyptus.
• Allow the decoction to take place for 10 minutes.
• Then add the juice of half a lemon and a tablespoon of honey.

There are a wide variety of natural remedies that may be helpful in calming the symptoms of sinusitis. However, it must be borne in mind that they lack scientific support and, therefore, one must be cautious when using them.

The best thing, as always, is to consult the doctor and get his opinion. In addition, you have to tell him about the intention of trying these remedies if there is already another treatment involved.