Sinus Home Cure

The sinuses are a problem for many people. Allergies, colds, sinus infections and other factors can cause a host of symptoms, including breathing difficulties, sneezing, congestion and a runny nose. Some disorders are chronic while others reach an acute stage, but there are a few home cures that have proven effective in treating sinus conditions.

Steam

• The hot moist air from steam unclogs the sinuses and helps to drain out mucus and other impurities. A hot shower is one way to open up the sinuses and nasal passages. Another way is to boil a pot of water on the stove. Place a towel over your head and deeply inhale the warm air. Steaming the sinuses facilitates drainage and decongestion. Inhale the steam for 2 to 3 minutes.

  The Mayo Clinic's article "Chronic Sinusitis" also suggests placing a warm washcloth over the center of the face. The warmth is soothing to the congested and painful areas.

  The article "Home Remedy for Sinus Infection" on the Sinus Infection Help website suggests adding garlic to the boiling water. Garlic has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Chop up a fresh clove of garlic and add it to the water, then inhale deeply to open up the sinus cavities.

Nasal Irrigation

• There are a few ways to cleanse out the sinuses at home.

  The drug store sells bulb syringes that are used to flush out the sinuses.

  Or you can choose neti pots, which originated in India thousands of years ago. Medical doctors, and especially holistic doctors, recommend a neti pot for nasal irrigation. An important part of neti pots is the saline solution used with the water. The saline consists of sodium chloride and this substance helps to heal the sinuses. Follow the directions on the label to use the neti pot properly. Studies done at the University of Wisconsin Medical School, documented in the article "Nasal Irrigation," suggest that people who use nasal irrigation regularly have "less frequent symptoms, and used antibiotics and nasal sprays less often. " Using a neti pot is a simple way to clean out the sinuses at home and can be used every day.

Drink Water

• The Mayo Clinic's article, "Chronic Sinusitis," points out that drinking plenty of fluids helps with sinus cleaning. By adding more water to the body, the thick mucus is thinned. The water also flushes away germs, bacteria, or fungi that may be contributing to nasal congestion and pain. Drinking lots of plain water is best, but juices are also good.

  The article "Home Remedy for Sinus Infection" recommends adding apple cider vinegar to the drinking water. Apple cider vinegar has ascetic acid and this mild acid breaks down and cuts through the mucus in the body.