Natural remedies help recurring sinus infections

When the basic function of life - the ability to breathe properly - is compromised, it can make you feel quite desperate. Recurrent sinus infections or allergic rhinitis are very common. Sometimes allergic sinusitis can last 3 months or more and keep on coming back. For centuries, people have effectively used herbs and natural remedies to help heal sinus infections. Along with keeping well rested, here are a few helpful therapies that will boost the immune system and make symptoms of sinusitis more bearable:

Vitamin C is an excellent immune booster. Take up to 3000 mg of vitamin C in divided doses each day. Try to get a product that also contains bio-flavanoids (e.g. rose hip, citrusexctracts) as these increase absorption. Ester-C is also an excellent choice as the body can easily absorb and utilise it.

Trapped or stagnant mucus provides a breeding ground for bacteria so keep it fluid by drinking plenty of liquids. That means plenty of water! Remember to stay away from “normal” tea, coffee, soft drinks and alcohol as these dehydrate the body. Herbal teas such as ginger, roibos, green tea, peppermint, lemongrass, etc. are fine.

Some people swear by apple cider vinegar. Mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water with a spoon of honey to improve the taste. This can be taken 3 times a day.

Avoiding environmental allergens may be difficult, but try to keep away from substances you know will trigger an allergic response such as house dust, animals, foods, pollens etc. Stay away from tobacco smoke and chemical irritants as these will cause further swelling of the mucus membranes.

Do a nasal wash if you can bear it. Although not pleasant, it's an excellent antiseptic. Mix a cup of warm water, half a teaspoonful of sea salt and a pinch of bicarbonate of soda.

Draw the fluid up through your nostrils and spit it out through your mouth.

There are special devices called “Netti Pots” to help you clear out your sinuses in this way, although you don’t necessarily need one.

Aromatherapy oils such as eucalyptus, tea tree and rosemary help to clear congestion and ease inflamed nasal passages. To use as an inhalant, drape a towel over your head and lean over a pot of steaming water with a few drops of the oil in. You can also buy vapour rubs made with combinations of oils that will help open up airways and assist breathing especially at night.

Use a warm compress to help open the nasal passages.

Garlic is well-known for its anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. You can take it in a form of a supplement or if you don't mind the smell just eat it raw. In fact raw is best.

Remember that garlic loses most of its amazing properties when it is cooked. Of course there are lots of other reasons why you may want to consider eating raw garlic daily.

Not only is it anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, it also can help lower blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol levels and indeed help normalise blood pressure. In fact, garlic has also been shown to help restore sexual function in men suffering from impotence. So make use of this abundant natural spice!

Try the immune boosting herb Echinacea. It has been shown again and again to absolutely great for any type of cold or flu. Cat's claw is another good immune boosting herb with anti-viral properties.



Source : www.zambiapost.com