subject: Home Remedies for Sinus Infection [print this page] Home Remedies for Sinus Infection Home Remedies for Sinus Infection
Sinus infection or sinusitis is an ailment in which the mucous lining of the sinuses is inflamed to the extent that it causes pain and discomfort to the individual.
There are four types of Para nasal sinuses within our head namely the maxillary sinuses, the ethmoid sinuses, the frontal sinuses and the sphenoid sinuses. These sinuses are cavities which are lined by mucous membranes which in turn are responsible in protecting the body from dust, pollens and other foreign particles that are present in the air we breathe. The surface of these mucous membranes is equipped with microscopic hair-like cilia which are responsible for draining the extra mucus produced naturally by the body. Therefore, when this mucociliary function becomes dysfunctional, the sinus cavities are obstructed by the abnormal secretions which tend to block the natural ventilation of the sinuses. This not only leads to pressure but also contributes to the growth of bacteria and virus within the cavity thus resulting in an infection which is known as the sinus infection.
Sinus infection can occur due to common cold, viral influenza, hay fever and fungus infection. Since our nose is a very sensitive part of our body which is extremely prone to cold and viral infections, the accumulation of mucus can cause the sinus passages to become inflamed thereby resulting in the sinus infection. Fungi like the common black mold and Aspergillus's are the varieties which are found in moist and damp areas which are devoid of sunlight and which are capable of aggravating the sinus infection in a human being.
There are several home remedies for sinus infection and they are listed as follows:
Periodical inhalation of steam vapors is considered to be the simplest as well as the most effective of all the home remedies for sinus infection. In this, the individual is required to bend over a bowl of hot water and start inhaling the steam vapors as frequently as possible. These steam vapors enhance the drainage of mucus by thinning its consistency and thus reduce the inflammation and the discomfort caused by the infection.
A noteworthy recommendation among all the home remedies for sinus infection is the imbibing of garlic juice or garlic capsules due to the antibacterial and anti fungal properties of garlic as a condiment. If one is averse to eating garlic then another way of benefiting from its properties would be to chop fresh garlic, add it to a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors 2-3 times a day.
The list of home remedies for sinus infection would be incomplete without the mention of apple cider vinegar. Since this variety of vinegar is a rich source of potassium, if an individual mixes two spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water and drinks the mixture at least thrice a day, then it is said to be an effective home remedy against sinus infection, common cold and running nose.
Nasal irrigation, which involves passing of water through the nasal passages, is an extremely effective home remedy to cure sinus infection. However, since it is a slightly complex procedure, the individual should first learn the art properly before performing it himself.
Sinus infection is bound to happen to a person if that person is allergic to particular groups of food. This is the reason why people who are chronic sufferers of sinus infection are strictly told to avoid dairy products, poultry, chocolates, peanuts and corn on a regular basis as a precaution.
As water is considered to be a universal healer, drinking at least ten glasses of water daily is one of the easiest home remedies against sinus infection. This is because the water not only thins out the mucus and allows it to drain easily, but it also strengthens the immune system of the body and reduces the possibility of ailments.
Ultimately it is our immune system which is supposed to fight the sinus infection in our body and therefore the most effective home remedy would be to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly and incorporate good habits so as to have a well equipped immune s
