Echinacea and goldenseal are two of the most effective herbs you can use to fight a sinus infection, according to Sinus Infection Help. Both herbs are known for their ability to fight off infections and reduce inflammation, according to Drugs.com. The use of these two herbs should be under the direction of a medical doctor. Most sinus infections can be treated with rest and increased liquid intake and do not require much medical intervention, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you suspect you have a sinus infection, call your doctor.
About Sinusitis
About 30 million Americans suffer from sinus infections on an annual basis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal cavities, typically caused by the common cold, allergies or the flu. When the sinuses become inflamed, they cut off your ability to breathe normally through your nose. It also causes excess mucus in the sinuses to build up pressure, leading to sinus headaches.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a sinus infection may include loss of smell and taste, nasal congestion, sneezing, low-grade fever, fatigue, body chills, sinus pressure and post-nasal drip. Post-nasal drip is a condition where mucus constantly drips down the back of the throat because it cannot drain out of the nostrils. Post-nasal drip can lead to coughing, throat irritation and bad breath.
Echinacea and Goldenseal
Sinus Infection Helps recommends using echinacea and goldenseal at the same time but in two different supplements to control the dose of each herbal supplement independently.
Dosing
A dose of 300mg of echinacea daily for two to three weeks is recommended. Take two to three weeks off from the supplement and re-introduce it for another two to three weeks. Goldenseal can be taken continually to reduce inflammation and kill unwanted bacteria.
Echinacea Side Effects
Echinacea is not recommended for people with HIV/Aids, white blood cell disorders, autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis or tuberculosis, according to Drugs.com. Common side effects include fever, nausea or vomiting. If you experience adverse reactions while using echinacea, call your doctor.
Goldenseal Side Effects
Goldenseal is not recommended for people with high blood pressure or people who have a blood clotting disorder. You may experience headaches and an upset stomach while using goldenseal. If you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling in your face and light-headedness, stop use and call your doctor, according to Drugs.com.
