Echinacea and Fungal Sinus Infection

According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, more than 37 million Americans suffer from the three forms of sinus infections every year: bacterial, viral and fungal. Fungal sinus infections are the rarest and most difficult to treat. Many common drugs used to treat the other two sinus infections are ineffective for a fungal sinus infection. But echinacea is one natural remedy that can help treat it.

• Echinacea flower

Facts About Fungal Infections

• A fungal sinus infection causes the sinus cavity to swell and overproduce mucus, causing congestion, sinus pressure and pain. A fungal sinus infection is similar to yeast infections found throughout the body, occurring either when another fungal condition exists elsewhere in the body or when airborne fungus spores are breathed.

Fungus-fighting Echinacea

• Echinacea has been recognized as an infection-fighting agent according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Echinacea is one of the only herbs known to ward off fungal infections. Many common drugs used in bacterial sinus infections wouldn't have an effect on fungus, which is what makes echinacea unique.

Dose

• Echinacea is taken orally in liquid or capsule form. Taking up to three grams a day, split into three doses, is recommended for the treatment of a sinus infection. It is important to take the doses at the first sign of the sinus infection. Echinacea can also strengthen the immune system, boosting the body's ability to ward off the infection naturally. In addition, echinacea can also be applied to the inner nostrils in liquid, three times daily to help fight off the sinus infection.

Side Effects

• Echinacea's common side effects include: dizziness, headaches, vomiting, fever, nausea, tongue numbness, insomnia, muscle aches, dry mouth, sore throat and diarrhea. If any of these side effects occur, lower the dose. If they continue, discontinue use immediately.

Warning

• Echinacea should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with suppressed immune systems, such as those with HIV, AIDS, MS or rheumatoid arthritis, should not use echinacea, as it can cause complications. Individuals who have allergies to mums, daisies, ragweed or marigolds could also have an allergic reaction to echinacea. Always discuss the use of echinacea for medicinal use with a health-care professional first.