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Home Remedy for Blocked Sinus

Blocked sinuses occur when the ostium, or sinus opening, becomes blocked or when mucus does not drain as quickly as it is produced in the sinus cavity. In each case, blocked sinuses can cause severe pressure and pain that can make it impossible for you to function at your best. Luckily, several home remedies can provide immediate relief. Although these are effective, see your doctor to determine if your blocked sinuses are the result of a more serious infection.

  1. Oil of Oregano

    • Oil of oregano is an essential oil distilled from wild oregano plants. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties that help alleviate blocked sinuses by strengthening your body's immune system. Purchase oil of oregano from your local health food store or from an online herbal retailer. Stir two to three drops of oil of oregano into 1 cup of fruit juice every day to open your sinuses. Do not use oil of oregano if you are allergic to basil, mint or thyme.

    Steam Inhalation

    • Steam inhalation will quickly drain your nasal passages and alleviate sinus pressure in your head. Boil 1 cup of water. Remove from heat and hold your head about 12 to 15 inches above the pot. Inhale the steam for approximately 10 minutes.

      Add three to four drops of eucalyptus oil to the boiling water for an additional blocked sinus home remedy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eucalyptus has potent antibacterial properties that make it an efficient expectorant.

      Add three to four drops of tea tree oil to your pot of boiling water for another home remedy. Tea tree oil is an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal essential oil that can help alleviate blocked sinus symptoms.

    Echinacea

    • The herb echinacea stimulates white blood production in the body and propels the new white blood cells to quickly travel to infected areas of the body. Purchase organic echinacea tea from an online herbal retailer or local health food store. Drink 3 cups of the tea daily to help alleviate your symptoms.

    Onion

    • Peel and dice an onion. Then, hold it close to your nose and sniff it. This will cause your nose to run and open up your sinuses.

    Diet

    • Sip lots of hot liquids, such as soups and broths, throughout the day. The steam from the liquids will open up your sinuses while the liquids will help to dilute the mucus in your nose.

      Add chili peppers and other hot spices to every meal. Spicy foods immediately cause your sinuses to drain and your nose to run, which over time will get rid of the contaminants causing your blocked sinuses.

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