Dry, inflamed nasal passages may mean you have a sinus allergy or infection. When the sinuses are infected, delicate nasal tissues swell and may dry out due to a loss of natural lubrication. Sinus problems can result from the flu, a head cold, seasonal allergic rhinitis and other viruses. Herbal remedies may relieve many symptoms of sinusitis, reducing inflammation and dryness. Herbs can cause side effects, so consult your health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbs to treat yourself.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is an excellent, all-purpose herb used for relieving sinus and upper respiratory problems. Not only does inhaling the scent break up congestion, it also relieve swelling and helps to moisten nasal passages, bringing relief from swelling and pain. It's best to use eucalyptus oil in a vaporizer or a steam bath. Simply place a few drops of the oil in a bowl of hot water. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel and gently inhale the vapors. The vaporizer will deliver the scent of eucalyptus throughout the room. Both steaming and a vaporizer will add moisture to the room, helping to reduce dryness in your nose. Do not use eucalyptus oil internally, unless under medical supervision.
Horseradish Root
Fresh horseradish root is another herb that is often used to clear the sinuses of congestion and reduce inflammation in the tissues. Horseradish is an astringent with a strong odor and taste. It opens the nasal passages, reducing swelling and helps to restore natural blood flow and lubrication to the sinuses, according to Phyllis Balch in the book, "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Start by grating some fresh horseradish root into a bowl and simply inhaling the aroma. If this is not strong enough to clear your sinuses, pour some hot water over the freshly grated herb and steam yourself as you would with eucalyptus oil. The third method for using horseradish root, is to chew on a few small pieces to release the oils and their scent. This should clear your sinuses and relieve dryness in the nose. Fresh horseradish can be very hot to the taste, so use only very small pieces to chew. Never use bottled or canned horseradish because it is mixed with other ingredients and most likely will have lost its medicinal properties.
Neti Pot
A neti pot originates from Indian or Ayurvedic medicine and is a home remedy for relieving sinusitis and restoring the natural oils to the sinuses and nasal lining. Go Ask Alice, the Columbia University's health service, explains that the neti pot is used to drain the sinuses with a saline solution. If you don't have a neti pot, you can mix a solution of salt and warm water together, waiting until all the salt dissolves. Pour it into a dropper bottle and place several drops into each nostril to help clear congestion, add moisture and reduce inflammation.
Sinupret
Sinupret is a proprietary blend of herbs, available in most health food stores, and used to clear the sinuses and restore them to health. It relieves swelling, dryness, congestion and inflammation and lessens allergic reactions to pollen and other inhalant substances, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The mixture includes sorrel, cowslip, European vervaine and elder. If you are familiar with making herbal mixtures, you can make your own home remedy using these herbs, purchased from the health food store. If you are using Sinupret, follow the label directions for use. If you make your own combination, place all the herbs in a pot of water and boil for 5 to 10 minutes to make herbal tea. Strain the herbs and drink the tea as needed. Consult with your health practitioner to ensure this herbal combination will be helpful for your condition.
References
- Go Ask Alice: Neti Pot
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sinus Headache
- CoxHelath: Sinus Congestion
- Peace Health: Sinus Congestion
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