Holistic treatments refer to methods that are noninvasive and are designed to help the body heal naturally. Sinus headaches are often caused by sinus infections and are generally treated by either over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines or prescription antibiotics. In addition, a few natural methods may provide some relief. Talk to your doctor about complementary health practices.
Herbs
When most people think of holistic healing, they immediately think of herbs. Herbs are one of the most common treatment methods used in holistic medicine. They are used in Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, as well as the native and folk medicine practices in many cultures. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, herbs traditionally used to treat sinus headaches include: a blend of European elder and sorrel; skullcap, a natural analgesic; feverfew, commonly used for migraines; and white willow bark, originally used to make aspirin. Because they have not yet received FDA approval for medicinal use, talk to your health care provider before trying herbal remedies.
Homeopathy
Homeopathic medicines are highly diluted substances that are used to encourage natural healing in the body. Because they generally do not have any adverse effects, many use homeopathic remedies to treat headaches naturally. The University of Maryland lists several remedies which may be recommended for sinus headaches. These include, but are not limited to: belladonna for throbbing headaches associated with fevers, hepar sulphuricum for stabbing headaches accompanied by thick nasal discharge, kali bichromicum for sinus congestion with pain behind the eyes, and pulsatilla for sinus headaches made worse by overeating. Consult a licensed health care provider for proper use of homeopathic medicine.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is part of an ancient system of medicine dating back nearly 3,000 years. Its diagnoses differ from Western medicine. An acupuncturist would not say that a patient has a sinus headache, but an issue of "dampness" or other imbalance. Acupuncture treatments utilize small, fine needles inserted into meridians, or energy channels in the body. The needles are believed to stimulate energy and facilitate healing naturally. Although this is considered a holistic, or natural therapy, it is not a self-treatment method and must be performed by a licensed acupuncturist. When searching for an acupuncturist, look for the designation, LAc.
Chiropractic
Many find chiropractic adjustments provide relief for both sinus problems and sinus-related headaches. Chiropractors make spinal adjustments or "manipulations" to relieve stress on the nervous system. According to the Erie Chiropractic Clinic in Pennsylvania, a chiropractic adjustment can relieve sinus pressure and pain by moving the bones of the skull and permitting body fluids to drain freely. As with acupuncture, chiropractic is not a self-treatment method and must be performed by a licensed chiropractor. Look for the designation DC, or doctor of chiropractic.
Nasal Lavage
Another little-known method for treating sinus problems is called nasal lavage, or nasal irrigation. It is based on the ancient yogic cleansing practice, jala neti. A neti pot, which looks like a small tea pot, is used to pour a mild saline solution into the nose and flush out the sinuses. This is used to treat headaches, allergies, sinus infections and other upper respiratory conditions. According to a 2002 study by the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, participants who used nasal irrigation had less frequent symptoms and used antibiotics and nasal sprays less than those who were not treated with nasal irrigation. Consult a health care practitioner for proper use of nasal lavage.
