The sinuses, or sinus cavities, are hollow spaces that air flows through within the bones surrounding the nose. Normally, your sinuses are filled with air. When sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection, also known as sinusitis. Any health situation that blocks off the drainage channels of your sinuses can cause a sinus infection including bacteria, viruses, fungi, nasal polyps, allergies, or a deviated septum. If a virus causes your sinus infection, you can spread that virus. If bacteria causes your sinus infection, you can not spread it to others. Fortunately there are things you can do to help avoid getting sinusitis and to naturally treat sinus infections.
Neti Pot
Using a neti pot with a saline solution can greatly improve sinus issues and clear the nasal passage ways. This process is called nasal irrigation. Salt in its micro-crystalline form has antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects. It helps your cells consolidate inflammation and mucus, so your body can get rid of it. Another way to get exposed to salt is by using a salt inhaler. They are most often sold with Himalayan sea salt because of it’s reputation for healing in the salt mines and salt rooms in Europe. You simply place the salt in the inhaler, place your mouth around the opening, breath in deeply through your mouth, and exhale through your nose.
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract is made from the pulp and seeds of the grapefruit. It has antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It also has high vitamin C content and other healing nutrients to help the body fight a sinus infection and relieve congestion. Try using a nasal spray that includes grapefruit extract at the first sign of symptoms. It’s a great way to naturally treat sinus infections.
Essential Oils
To naturally clear the sinuses, using eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil can be highly effective. There are also blends available that contain potent combinations of essential oils that are known to help with breathing. Essential oils can naturally open up the sinuses, clear mucus and eliminate infections. Rub one drop of each on the roof of the mouth (only do this with food grade essential oils). Then drink water. Another great idea is to diffuse essential oils into the air so you can breathe them in. Or you can dab some under your nose or along the side of your neck to help with drainage.
Steam and Hydration
Hydration is the key to flushing the infection from your system. Try to drink at least 8 ounces every 2 hours. Using a a humidifier, saline nasal spray, or sitting in a steam-filled bathroom, will add moisture to the air and your nasal passages. This can really help to reduce congestion. You can also add few drops of and essential oil to a large bowl of boiled water. Cover your head with a towel creating a tent to keep the steam in. Then close your eyes and put your face a safe distance from the pot and inhale the steam for a few minutes. This will help to clear the nasal passages and can be repeated several times a day. Sleeping with a humidifier while you have a sinus infection can also be helpful. Steam inhalation is especially good at reducing sinus headaches.
Spices and Supplements
Eat plenty of foods and herbs that have been used since ancient times to help strengthen the immune system and can naturally treat sinus infections. This includes garlic, onions, ginger, and turmeric. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and will help boost the function of your immune system. Zinc also supports and boosts the immune system. Vitamin D is required for a healthy immune system. In fact, it is one of the most powerful nutrients for supporting the immune system. Echinacea has powerful antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties that have made it a well-known traditional remedy for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Oil of oregano contains powerful compounds that have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. You can buy that in a health food store or on-line. Until your sinuses are back to normal, it’s best to avoid inflammatory foods like sugar, dairy, alcohol, and refined grains.
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