Sinus infections can be debilitating and persistent. This article will cover some of the most effective home remedies for sinusitis prevention and treatment that I have accumulated over the years. All of these methods are used regularly and I have never had any issues with my sinuses, nor colds or flu. Let’s begin with prevention.
Prevention
The best way to prevent sinus infections is keeping your sinus areas (forehead, cheek and chin) warm and your mucus membranes moist. When you sleep, it is especially important to keep your forehead warm and your cheeks warm. These areas can be helped by a warm scarf, hat, or towel placed over them while you sleep. If you have a sinus infection, this is also a great way to treat it.
A humidifier can be used in your bedroom to treat and prevent a sinus infection. These two tips alone will help you prevent your problem. However, if your problem persists, there are many foods and supplements that can be taken to maintain your immune system. I have found that natural nasal sprays made with baking soda and salt have been very helpful.
Take note
This home remedy is made with 1/2 cup water, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch baking soda. You should only use bottled water that is not filtered. Otherwise, you could make matters worse. Mix the mixture well and place in a clean spray bottle. This nasal spray is also a great home remedy for your allergies.
This nasal spray can be used multiple times per day. It is both effective and inexpensive.
Nutrition
Vitamins, minerals, and food supplements are great home remedies for sinus infection. They can also prevent them. Vitamin C is important, as you probably know. However, getting vitamin C from fresh foods can be even more beneficial. Recent research has shown that natural vitamin C found in food had a stronger effect on maintaining a healthy immune system than synthetic C. (Almost all of the C you purchase at the grocery store is synthesized).
Citrus (oranges and tangerines, grapefruits, lemons), kiwi and cabbage are all good home remedies for sinus infections. Vitamin C is a natural decongestant that will help dry out inflamed sinus passages from colds and sinus infections. To prevent sinus infections and colds, I eat a whole orange peel every day in winter. The white and pulp of oranges are much better for you than orange juice. Does your vitamin C supplement contain bioflavonoids? This is an important home remedy type of nutrient that helps keep your mucus membranes healthy, and restores your immune system.
Supplementation
Supplements can be purchased at your local health food store, or you can buy them in the white portion of citrus fruits as well as the pulp. Vitamin A (not beta carotene) is another important supplement. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin and mucus membranes. As high doses of vitamin A can cause health problems, limit your intake to 5,000 IU per day. It is important to only purchase supplements that are derived from natural sources (e.g. fish oil).
Synthetic vitamin A is not recommended. Natural vitamin A can be found in eggs, dairy products and liver, as well as some fish. Do you take a natural-derived mixed carotene vitamin every day? Beta-carotene is no longer sufficient. Other carotenoids, such as lutein, alpha-carotene, and lycopene, are just as important, or even more, than beta-carotene. It is important to ensure that you only purchase the natural forms of these supplements.
Good to know
Recent research has shown that synthetic carotenes can be harmful and not helpful at all. Make sure the supplement label includes natural sources of the supplement (such a palm fruit). Carrots, yams, and all berries are rich in carotene. Your immune system is in good shape thanks to several minerals.
Zinc is the most important home remedy. Zinc lozenges are often used to treat sinus infections. However, if zinc is taken in advance, it can be avoided. Selenium is another important mineral. These minerals can be toxic if taken in large quantities. NAC, or n-acetyl cystineine, is another useful home remedy for sinus infections. It is a form the amino acid cysteine and is a powerful antioxidant.
It increases your body’s supply glutathione, which is a very important enzyme that can help improve your immune system.
Home remedies
Other home remedies for your immune system include raw garlic, flaxseed, flaxseed oil and echinacea. Fresh, raw fruits and veggies are also good options. They are rich in natural enzymes and nutrients, which can be used to make almost all types of prepared foods. People who eat a lot more prepared and cooked foods tend to be healthier than those who eat mostly raw foods. You can find the best home remedy for sinus infections at your local grocery store. Take a look at all the delicious raw foods available. Take some home and make a large salad with fruits and vegetables. You can purchase frozen fruits in the winter to make smoothies or add to yogurt. You can still get great nutrients from frozen fruit to keep you healthy. Consult your doctor before adding supplements or changing your diet.
