Garlic and ginger are two of the most common natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herbal supplements used for bodily infections that are also commonly used as spices to add flavor to various foods. If you have the symptoms of a sinus infection or chest cold, talk to your doctor before attempting to self-medicate or treat your condition.
Sinus Infections
Sinus infections are mostly caused by the common cold. Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal passages due to the presence of bacteria, virus or fungi. The sinuses become inflamed and swell, blocking the normal ability to breathe and drain mucus through the nostrils. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, a low-grade fever, lack of smell and taste, sinus headache, facial tenderness and minor body chills.
Chest Cold
A chest cold, or acute bronchitis, is an infection in the bronchial tubes that causes your airways to swell. It is common to develop a chest cold and a sinus infection at the same time. Typically, one of the infections begins and spreads into the other part of the body. Acute bronchitis causes shortness of breath, wheezing, fever, chest discomfort and fatigue. A chest cold commonly lasts for a few days and shouldn't last longer than 10 days.
Garlic and Ginger Use
Garlic and ginger can both be used simultaneously in either their raw state or in supplement form. These herbs have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help kill any bacteria present and reduce the swelling in the sinuses or the bronchial tubes. Talk to your doctor about specific dosing for your condition based on your medical history.
Garlic Precautions
Garlic can interact with various medications and should be evaluated by your doctor before use. Common side effects of garlic include body odor and bad breath. Some people experience digestive complications such as nausea, sweating, light-headedness, vomiting and diarrhea. Garlic may also trigger an asthma attack and has been reported to cause contact dermatitis, or eczema, when touched.
Ginger Precautions
Do not take ginger without discussion with your doctor if you suffer from gallbladder disease, have gallstones, have diabetes, suffer from heart disease, have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder or take any other herbs. Although unlikely, ginger can cause an allergic reaction.
