Bayberry bark stimulates the circulatory system, providing relief for sinus pain and promoting the thinning of mucus membranes to help clear the nasal passages, according to the Natural Remedies For? website. Drugs.com states that bayberry bark supplements also are known as a natural stimulant that can promote relief for nasal congestion. A sinus infection occurs when your sinuses become inflamed.
Background
Sinusitis affects more than 30 million Americans annually, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sinus infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, allergies and nasal deformities. Sinus infections lasting less than eight weeks are considered acute, while longer sinus infections are considered chronic. If you suspect that you have a sinus infection, talk with your doctor before attempting to self-treat.
Symptoms
Sinus infection symptoms include sinus pressure, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, headaches, fever, bad breath, coughing, throat irritation, reduction in taste and smell, fatigue and post-nasal drip, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sinus pressure pain can form in your forehead, eyes, cheeks, upper-teeth, ears and nose. Post-nasal drip can cause your stomach to become upset, coughing and a sore throat.
Bayberry Usage
Bayberry is available in supplement pill form but should be used only as directed by your doctor. Bayberry works by stimulating the circulatory system, which acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant. It can help reduce inflammation in the sinuses and thin the mucus, promoting movement in the sinus cavity. Bayberry also contains anti-bacterial properties that might be helpful if the sinus infection is related to a bacterial infection, according to Drugs.com
Concerns
Bayberry has been reported to cause gastric reactions, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. You might develop an allergic reaction while taking bayberry. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include shortness of breath, facial swelling, dizziness and hives. Call 911 immediately if you develop these symptoms. Bayberry also might interact with certain drugs. Talk to your doctor any medications you are taking and whether they might interact with bayberry.
Consideration
Bayberry might be most effectively used in conjunction with traditional medicine. The University of Maryland Medical Clinic states that over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants, pain relievers and antihistamines, may be used to treat common symptoms of sinusitis. Other natural remedies to treat sinusitis are the use of steam, running a humidifier and using saline nasal sprays or rinses.
