If your experiencing nasal discharge, impaired sense of smell, severe congestion, inability to breathe through the nose, or nasal discharge, you may be suffering allergic rhinitis of some form. There can be a number of things triggering nasal inflammation that is responsible for sinus congestion such as an autoimmune reaction to fungus and bacteria, growth of nasal polyps, or sensitivity to common environmental substances.
Sinus congestion can be a real annoyance to most people, in some cases nasal infections can lead to serious threatening conditions such as meningitis. Clogged sinuses can undermine health in indirect ways such as restricting airflow, zapping energy, interfering with sleep, and diminishing quality of life. Over time sinus congestion can compromise health of the respiratory and immune systems.
Majority of people will turn to over the counter antihistamines or cold remedies to treat nasal congestion, which treat the symptoms rather than treating the underlying cause. Studies have shown that chronic use of these drugs can lead to racing heartbeat, hypertension, and congestion rebound, among other things. As a long term solution they are deficient.
There are a number of natural remedies that have been proven to be effective at addressing the root causes of mucosal inflammation that leads to nasal congestion, many of which have been used for thousands of years to improve respiratory health and relieve sinus pressure.
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid which is a potent antifungal and antibacterial. To relieve congestion oil pulling can help, gently swish and gargle about one teaspoon of coconut oil in the mouth for about 20 minutes each morning, just like gargling mouthwash and don’t swallow it. Allow the coconut oil to pull toxins from the lymph glands, mouth, and gums. This process can improve lymphatic circulation and neutralize microorganisms while draining mucosal passages. Adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to the rinse can help improve mucosal circulation. Do this detox routine once a day before brushing your teeth.
Another popular and effective Ayurvedic technique is use of a neti pot which will irrigate and cleanse the nasal passages. Studies show this is safe and effective at relieving sinus congestion and pressure.
Spices and foods rich in phytonutrients, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant compounds can help improve sinus health such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, cayenne pepper, horseradish, and mustard. Hot spices works best when it comes to decongestion which help dilate blood vessels and improve circulation aiding in mucus drainage. Herbal teas, especially ginger, peppermint, and eucalyptus will help to open up and cleanse sinus passages, added honey and fresh lemon juice gives a vitamin C and antibacterial propolis boost the the immune system which is soothing for seasonal allergies and sinusitis.
Tropical fruit is rich in bromelain compound which decreases inflammation and swelling.
Drink plenty of water, this will bolster the immune system, loosen mucus and flush toxins from your system.
Sinus congestion can occur due to a variety of factors, relief can also come in a variety of ways. Exercise, air purifiers, peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, and steam baths can also help in promoting sinus health. Avoiding immune compromising and inflammatory foods can also help such as refined sugars, dairy and fermented cheeses, processed foods, fried foods, and trans fats.
