Sinusitis Remedies

For generations mankind has been looking for ways to relieve their sinus problems. Before modern medications, these remedies involved common ingredients found around the home. While today we can turn to modern medicine and science to find the answers to relieve sinusitis, some of the lesser known, old fashioned remedies might still carry a bit of weight when it comes to the fighting of congested sinuses.

One folk home remedy involved the use of cayenne pepper. People would put one teaspoon of cayenne into a cup of hot water and drink three cups a day. Other people would swear by the use of eucalyptus as a home remedy. They would inhale a mixture of boiled water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil while covering their head with a large towel or cloth. They would then inhale the steam for 10 minutes. Another home remedy includes using salt mixed with water as a nasal inhaler. And for generations the herb thyme was used for respiratory infections because of its strong antiseptic properties. Individuals would steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of thyme in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes and drink a cup of it three times a day. Thyme is a natural drying herb for the body. While some individuals still turn to these home remedies to relieve their sinusitis problems, others turn to modern medicine to do all of the work. While natural home remedies may relieve symptoms they will not clear up an infection caused by bacteria that might be present within the sinus cavities.

Nowadays sinusitis is treated by your medical practitioner with antibiotics if an infection is present. Unfortunately, antibiotics will not help a sinus infection that is caused by viruses or other problems like allergies. Your health care provider will most likely also suggest decongestants to relieve symptoms. Over the counter decongestants can help to reduce the amount of mucus in the sinus cavities ad therefore reducing the painful symptoms associated with sinusitis. Some decongestants are available as nasal prays while others are pills. Neglecting to treat a sinus infection properly can lead to more serious conditions or to the sinus problems becoming chronic.

Another easy remedy for sinuses is as simple as performing a facial massage. Some people have found that by pressing your thumbs firmly on both sides of your nose and holding them there for 15 to 30 seconds then repeating the action, will temporarily relieve sinusitis. This action brings a fresh supply of blood to the area. Other sinus sufferers have also sworn by using a vaporizer at night. The dry air can wreak havoc on sinuses during the night but the arm air of the vaporizer eliminates night-time discomfort.

Whatever method is used to relieve clogged sinuses, it is clear that having a sinus problem is something that should not be left untreated. Untreated sinus problems can and most likely will, lead to chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis can last for more then twelve weeks and then linger for years afterward.