According to the Mayo Clinic, sinus infections may be viral, bacterial or fungal in origin. In most cases, sinus infections dissipate after a few days or weeks with no treatment; however, some cases become chronic. Conventional treatments for chronic or severe sinusitis are only marginally effective. Because of this, naturopaths like Dr. Andrew Weil recommend a combination of dietary changes, home remedies and medicinal herbs to eliminate sinus infections and their related symptoms.
Bromelain
A protease enzyme derived from pineapple, bromelain is highly effective as a treatment for pain and inflammation associated with sinus infections. The U.S. National Institutes of Health grant bromelain a "B" rating--"good scientific evidence"--as a treatment for sinus inflammation. However, more studies are needed to conclusively demonstrate its efficacy.
Oregano Oil
Mayo Clinic allergist James T. Li notes that oregano oil possesses antifungal and antibacterial effects. While no studies have formally investigated oregano's ability to specifically target sinus infections, it may help to eliminate the fungi and bacteria responsible for the infection.
Astragalus
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), astragalus is used to stimulate the actions of the immune system and eliminate viral and bacterial infections. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that preliminary evidence supports this traditional use. Dr. Andrew Weil recommends a combination of astragalus, garlic and oregano as a naturopathic intervention for sinus infections.
Garlic
Garlic contains allicin, a sulfur-based compound that acts similarly to an antibiotic. In addition to boosting the immune system's response to pathogenic bacteria, garlic may also help to prevent some forms of heart disease.
Willow Bark
While willow bark does not contain any disease-fighting compounds, it may help to reduce some of the discomforts associated with sinusitis. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that willow bark contains salicin, a natural precursor to aspirin-like anti-inflammatory compounds. Willow bark and its derivatives can reduce pain and inflammation associated with sinus infections.
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