| Chronic
sinusitis is often associated with food allergies. An elimination/challenge
diet is recommended to identify and eliminate allergenic foods.
Irrigating the sinuses with a salt water solution is often
recommended for sinusitis and allergies, in order to clear
the nasal passages of mucus.
Another solution for nasal lavage (washing)
utilizes powdered goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). Other
herbal treatments, taken internally, include a mixture made
of eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis), goldenseal, yarrow (Achillea
millefolium), horseradish, and ephedra (Ephedra sinica), or,
when infection is present, a mixture made of echinacea (Echinacea
spp.), wild indigo, and poke root (Phytolacca decandra-Americana).
Homeopathic practitioners find a number of
remedies useful for treating sinusitis. Among those they recommend
are: Arsenicum album, Kalium bichromium, Nux vomica, Mercurius
iodatus, and Silica.
Acupuncture has been used to treat sinusitis,
as have a variety of dietary supplements, including vitamins
A, C, and E, and the mineral zinc. Contrast hydrotherapy (hot
and cold compresses, alternating 3 minutes hot, 30 seconds
cold, repeated 3 times always ending with cold) applied directly
over the sinuses can relieve pressure and enhance healing.
A direct inhalation of essential oils (2
drops of oil to 2 cups of water) using thyme, rosemary, and
lavender can help open the sinuses and kill bacteria that
cause infection.
Sinus infection cannot be cured by home remedies. However,
people can use home remedies to lessen their discomfort. Inhaling
steam from a vaporizer or a hot cup of water can soothe inflamed
sinus cavities.
Another treatment is saline nasal spray, which
can be purchased in a pharmacy. A hot water bottle; hot, wet
compresses; or an electric heating pad applied over the inflamed
area also can be comforting. |
