How Can I Treat A Sinus Infection At Home?

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

Sinusitis is a common condition that causes breathing difficulties due to interference with the operation of the upper respiratory system. It originates due to an 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 frequent during winter or when there are sudden changes in the weather.

Sinus infection causes

• External agents such as rhinovirus and Staphylococcus Aureus.
• Respiratory allergies.
• Problems in the nasal septum due to contractions or deviation.
• Flu and cold.
• The best way to know the exact cause that causes 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 your doctor requires it, 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 promote the relief of symptoms according to anecdotal data. However, they should be used with caution, as the evidence for their safety and efficacy is limited. Let’s see some options.

1. Vaporizations

Steam has been used to help flush out the mucus built up in the nostrils. This, in turn, could help reduce irritation of the sinuses. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that they are effective.

How to use it?

Fill a pot with water, bring it to a boil, and when it comes to a boil, remove it.
Before it starts to cool, tilt your head over it and cover it with a blanket to inhale the fumes.

2. Take a Rest

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

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

How to use it?

Sleep at least 7 hours a day, without interruptions.
In doing so, try to maintain an upright position with the 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.

How to use it?

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, mint has been used to calm sinus congestion and thus decrease sinus symptoms.

How to use it?

You can ingest it through an infusion or prepare vaporization by adding a few 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 swelling of the paranasal sinuses and reduce obstruction.

How to use it?

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 calm congestion and sinus symptoms is rosemary. In this case, we propose to take advantage of it through vaporizations.

How to use it?

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

7. Poultice of radishes

Although there is no evidence to support its effectiveness, radish has been popularly recommended to facilitate the removal of mucus 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

How to use it?

Crush the onion and radishes until you get a paste and spread it with gauze over the sinuses.

8. Garlic drops

A popular remedy against the discomforts caused by sinusitis is a few drops made with garlic. However, in the absence of evidence, it is unknown whether it is safe to apply. In any case, below we highlight what the remedy consists of.

How to use it?

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

9. Special infusion

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

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (5 g)
• 1 tablespoon of eucalyptus leaves (10 g)
• ½ lemon.
• 1 tablespoon of honey (25 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 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.
Next, add the juice of half a lemon and a tablespoon of honey.

Definitely

There are a wide variety of natural remedies that could be helpful in calming sinus symptoms. However, it must be borne in mind that they lack scientific support and, therefore, it is necessary to be cautious when using them.

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