Herbal Remedy for Sinus Congestion

According to Dr. Jacqueline Krohn, author of "Natural Detoxification; A Practical Encyclopedia" and other books, sinus disease is the most common chronic ailment in North America. It is caused by an array of conditions, including a reduced efficacy of the cilia in the nasal passage, polyps, adenoid enlargement, deviated septum, allergies, dental infections or upper respiratory infections. Any of these can lead to blockage of the sinus, accumulation of mucus, bacterial growth and sinus congestion.

Herbal Teas

• Several herbal teas help with congested sinuses. Try either one cup of anise tea three times a day, a cup of horehound tea once or twice a day or one cup of wild thyme tea up to four times a day. If you cannot find anise tea bags, then add one tsp of the crushed seeds to a cup of hot water and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Make horehound tea by adding one tbsp of the dried herb to a cup of boiling water and letting it steep approximately five minutes. Wild thyme is particularly effective in cases of swollen nasal passages and sinusitis.

Liquids

• Sambucol, which comes from the elderberry bush, when taken as directed on the label breaks up mucus in the sinuses. Osha tincture made into a drink by adding 10 to 15 drops of the herb to one-fourth cup of water and consumed once or twice a day should help. Osha, ligusticum porterii, is an expectorant. It is native to the Western states and Mexico. Native Americans used it for centuries for flu and sore throats. According to "Prescription for Herbal Healing" by Phyllis A. Balch, the antibacterial and antiviral capabilities of this plant help with sinusitis.

Capsules and Tablets

• Bromelain tables in 250 to 500 mg strength, taken up to three times a day between meals may relieve the congestion. However, if you are allergic to pineapple, you may develop a rash from Bromelain, in which case discontinue the herb at once. Cat's claw capsules, 500 to 1,000 mg twice daily, can reduce the inflammation, a significant element in causing sinus congestion. However, if you are taking insulin for diabetes or are pregnant or nursing, do not take cat's claw.

  Licorice root will loosen mucus but should not be taken for longer than four to six weeks nor if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure. Garlic tablets, because of their immune-enhancing properties, can help fight the sinusitis infection as well. Take two capsules three times a day. Grape seed extract is another inflammation fighter and antioxidant, and it may neutralize any allergic reactions involved in the congestion. Follow the label directions on the herb's bottle for use.

Caution

• This article is not intended as medical advice. A physician should evaluate any persistent conditions, such as sinus congestion. Some herbal preparations can be dangerous if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Always consult with an M.D. or N.D. (doctor of naturopathy) if any accompanying diseases or conditions are present.