Herbal Remedies For Sinusitis
Inflammation or infection of the sinus causes sinusitis. There are four pairs of sinuses or cavities located in the skull around the nose. Each of these four pairs of sinuses has an opening in the nose. Through the opening air or mucus circulates between the cavities and the nasal passage.
In normal circumstances, the sinuses are filled with air. When nasal congestion occurs from infections or allergies, the contents in the sinuses could not be drained properly. The trapped contents in the sinus exert pressure on the sinus wall, causing stuffiness of the nose and pain. Several herbal remedies are effective in treating sinusitis.
Echinacea
Prepare a cup of warm Echinacea tea, made by steeping one gram of dry Echinacea root in a cup of boiling water. Taking Echinacea tea three times a day could help to heal the discomforts caused by sinusitis. This herb is noted for its anti-inflammatory and immune stimulating property. It also prevents enzymes secreted by the infection causing bacteria from penetrating the mucus lining.
Licorice
Having a cup of licorice tea two to three times a day could help to cure sinusitis. To prepare licorice tea, pour a cup of boiling water over two grams of dried licorice root and steep for about five to ten minutes. Licorice is effective in reducing the inflammation of the sinus. However, people suffering from heart diseases and hypertension should avoid this herb.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a safe herb for treating sinusitis. You can have a cup of goldenseal tea, two to three times daily, to reduce the discomfort caused by sinusitis. Goldenseal is particularly effective in fighting bacterial infections that cause inflammation of the sinus. This herb also makes the mucus thin, helping to remove the mucus congestion.
Eucalyptus oil
Inhaling eucalyptus oil could help to cure the stuffy nose and eliminate the mucus blocking the sinus pathways.
Astragalus
In traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus root is used for treating sinusitis. This herb could enhance immunity and dissolve mucus congestions.
Nettle
Nettle is effective in treating sinusitis caused by allergens. Tea or diluted fluid extract of nettle root helps to cure sinusitis.
Wild cherry bark
Drinking tea made by adding one teaspoon of wild cherry bark powder in a cup of hot water, three times a day, could reduce the symptoms of sinusitis.
