3 Natural Ways to Relieve Sinus Congestion
August 06, 2013by: Lauren Rae, CPT at TRYM Fitness and Sunwarrior Contributing Writer
Mayo Clinic Online reports that nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates and inflames the nasal tissues. Infections—such as common colds, influenza, or sinusitis—allergies, and various irritants like animal dander, dust mites, mold, pollen, and other false irritants such as tobacco smoke, may all cause sinus congestion and accompanying ailments.
General symptoms of sinus congestion can occur as pressure in your face and under your eyes and often includes drainage. Sinuses are responsible for lightening the weight of the skull and giving resonance to your voice, as well as filtering and moistening the air that we breathe, while removing unwanted air particles. Located in your forehead, between your eyes, and in your cheeks, these sinuses drain into the nasal passages through narrow openings. When a blockage occurs as the
When allergens are ever-present or you feel a cold coming on, get the relief you need by utilizing natural home remedies to battle your congestion head-on and keep breathing clear and comfortable all year round.
3 Natural Ways to Relieve Sinus Congestion
1. Bromelain Bromelain is a naturally occurring enzyme in pineapples. It can be consumed in the purest form by eating pineapple or, to avoid extra sugar calories, try the supplement form. Taken regularly, these enzymes can relieve your sinus congestion by decreasing headaches, inflammation, and swelling caused by infection or allergies, as well as by reducing excess nasal mucous. Supplements that utilize Bromelain are also useful for athletes and active adults as it is shown to speed up recovery from DOMS (delayed onset muscle fatigue) and other inflammation associated with exercise.2. Nasal irrigation
First used in the ancient Hindu practice of Ayurveda, nasal irrigation was first developed by breathing in warm water and blowing it out. With inventions like the Neti Pot, flushing the nasal passages is now a widely used practice in all cultures and an extremely effective tool for battling sinus congestion. Used regularly, nasal irrigation can be used as a daily ritual against regular exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, and other allergens.3. Steam Facials
Vaporizing herbs and essential oils—including Peppermint, Juniper, and Anise—can provide immediate relief from sinus congestion by loosening the mucus from the nasal cavity. Just place the herbs or extracted oils in a pot with water and bring to a boil. Remove your boiling water from the heat source. Cover your head with a towel and lean over to inhale the steam. Breathe deeply to allow the vapors to permeate your nasal passages for quick, natural relief.