8 Herbal Remedies For Sinus Congestion

The headache and congestion that lingers during a cold may be the symptoms of sinusitis. The person experiences sinus congestion, when there is excess build up of mucus in the sinus cavity and this mucus is not drained properly by the sinuses.

Swimming, smoking or overuse of nasal sprays can increase the risk of sinusitis. This illness can be acute or chronic. Over-the-counter medicines are usually used to treat this problem. However, there are lots of herbal remedies that can provide you relief from sinus congestion. The remedies include steam inhalations, foot baths and drinking teas. You can purchase these herbal medicines over the counter, but you need to check with your physician before using any of these herbal treatment methods.

Herbal Remedies For Sinus Congestion

Eucalyptus

Whether inhaled or ingested, this herb can soothe the nasal passages. This antiseptic could be used to decrease the swelling in the nasal passage. Due to this swelling the mucus is not easy to pass through. Also, you can treat sore throat by drinking eucalyptus tea, which provides relief from pain. You can steep eucalyptus in hot water and inhale its steam. This will help in loosening the mucus and reduce congestion.

Peppermint

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, this herb is used to soothe the inflamed membranes present in the sinuses. As it is a decongestant, it thins the mucus and clears your sinuses. A few drops of this herbal essential oil can be used as a warm compress (apply to your forehead and eyes) or your vaporizer as it helps in breathing better. Else, you can steep peppermint in the boiling water and use to inhale the steam.

Echinacea

This perennial herb with red and pink flowers is found in North America. Echinacea has been in use for almost 400 years. It is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Its antioxidant and antiviral effects help in improving the immune system and fight off infections like sinusitis.

Echinacea is available as tinctures, ointments, capsules, extracts and as dried root. Echinacea herbal tea is used to improve sinus inflammation. The tea is consumed for ten days 3 times a day. Pour boiling water (1 cup) over dried Echinacea root (1 -2 g) and allow it to steep for 10 minutes. For children, 1/3rd of the dosage must be given.

Elderberry

This herb is being used for many years to treat respiratory illnesses and wounds. The antiviral and anti-inflammatory actions of the elderberry along with certain chemicals present in the berries and flowers of this plant helps in reducing inflammation in the sinuses and ease nasal congestion. Black elder or European elder is the commonly used species of this plant.

The dwarf species of elderberry are toxic, when used for internal purpose. This is available as lozenges, capsules, extract, and dried elder flower and syrup. You can make a tea by adding 3-5 g of dried flowers of this herb in a cup of hot water. Allow the tea to cool and then strain it before drinking. This tea can be consumed 3 times in a day.

Bromelain

This is an enzyme found in the fruit and stem of pineapple. The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain can help in improving the functioning of the immune system. Besides, obtaining this enzyme through your diet, you can take it as supplements as well. It is approved to be used as a supplement to treat sinus congestion. The recommended dosage is about 80 to 320 mg, 2 to 3 times in a day. However, make sure not to take the supplement for more than 8 – 10 days.

Tea Tree Oil

This is obtained from the leaf part of the plant Melaleuca alternifolia, which is native to Australia. It is applied topically due to its antiseptic properties. You must avoid taking it internally, as it can be toxic. Tea tree oil is quite effective against the pathogenic reasons for sinusitis like fungus Aspergillus, Staphylococcus aureus and bacteria.

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Barberry

This herb is being used for medical purposes for more than 2500 years. Barberry contains a chemical known as berberine, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and helps in improving the immune system. Barberry is available as capsules, extracts and as tinctures. The recommended capsule dosage is about 250 mg – 500 mg for adults 3 times per day. The usage of the herb must not be for more than 7 days in line.

Licorice

The antioxidant properties of this herb attack the viruses effectively. Licorice is taken as tea or a pill. It helps in reducing the symptoms of sinus by boosting your immune system. In addition, it kills bacteria, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, lessens your congestion and breaks up mucus.