Herbs For Chronic Sinus Congestion

Chronic sinusitis is an uncomfortable condition in which mucus builds up in the sinuses, making it difficult to breathe through the nose and causing pressure or pain around the eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead. The sinuses are the cavities around the nasal passages, and with sinusitis, they become inflamed and swollen. Certain herbs may be helpful for chronic sinusitis when they're part of a well-rounded treatment plan that addresses the fundamental cause. Before using herbs for sinusitis, consult a botanically trained health care professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized advice on herbal combinations, forms, dosage and safety.

Horseradish

Horseradish, also known by its Latin names Cochlearia armoracia and Armoracia Rusticana, has been used as a condiment and medicine for centuries in Europe. The plant is a member of the mustard family. The root of horseradish is used for medicine and its taste is strong and pungent. According to the Healthnotes.com database, horseradish is helpful for treating digestive ailments, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, common cold, sore throat and sinus congestion. Its active constituents are volatile oil, isothiocyanates and glycosides, which are antimicrobial and increase circulation to affected areas. Horseradish thins the mucus in the sinuses, allowing it to flow freely and clear the respiratory passages. It facilitates easier breathing through the nose and can alleviate the headaches that may accompany sinus congestion. The freshly grated root of horseradish may be consumed as a condiment or mixed in water. It's also available as a tincture.

Eyebright

The herb eyebright, also called Eurphrasia officinalis, is a Figwort family plant utilized for ailments of the eyes, nose and sinuses. Its above-ground parts are used for medicine and their taste is both slightly bitter and slightly sweet. Eyebright derives its name from its ability to clear thick liquids that accumulate around the eyes in conjunctivitis, or pinkeye. In addition to its therapeutic effects on the eyes, eyebright also alleviates nasal and sinus congestion, states Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." The active components of eyebright include glycosides, tannins and volatile oil. Eyebright may be taken as a tea, tincture or capsule.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils may be used in a steam inhalation to counter microbial infections of the sinuses and clear congestion. A steam inhalation is prepared by boiling a pot of water on the stove, adding a few drops of essential oil, placing a towel over the head and inhaling the steam. Caution should be exercised to avoid burns. For sinusitis, Tilgner recommends using the essential oils of lavender, eucalyptus and thyme. These herbs open the sinuses and combat infections of the respiratory tract. Note that essential oils are very strong, so only small amounts should be used for steam inhalation, and they should not be taken internally.