When the tissue lining the sinuses gets inflamed or swelled, it created the condition known as sinusitis. Normal sinuses should be filled with air, but if they get filled with fluid or become blocked, germs can grow and develop an infection.
According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, there are around 30 million Americans affected by this condition each year.
The following conditions can cause sinus blockage:
- The common cold
- Nasal polyps
- Allergic rhinitis
- A shift in the nasal cavity called a deviated septum
Types of Sinusitis
There are 4 types of sinusitis:
- Acute sinusitis – it starts with cold-like symptoms like facial pain and runny, stuffy nose. It could begin suddenly and last from two to four weeks.
- Chronic inflammation – the symptoms usually last at least 12 weeks
- Subacute sinus inflammation – it can last from four to twelve weeks
- Recurrent sinusitis – occurs few times per year
Function of Sinuses
They produce mucus and secretions that passes through the nose every day. This mucus washes and cleans the membranes, picking up bacteria, dust particles, and air pollutants as it goes.
Also, they affect your voice in terms of quality and tone. Still, the primary function of sinuses is the secretion of mucus that cleans and moisturizes your nose from the inside.
Clear Blocked Sinuses with Essential Oils
Certain essential oils can help prevent and treat sinus infection or attack. They will help you clear blocked sinuses naturally, clearing the mucus and getting rid of possible infections. Here are the best essential oils to treat your sinusitis, as well as a recipe to get your relief.
1. Eucalyptus Oil
The anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties of eucalyptus essential oil make it a potent natural decongestant.
The fresh, stimulating, camphoraceous, and pungent scent of this Australian oil lasts for quite a long time. You can use it to prevent and reduce symptoms of sinusitis, cold and flu, and bronchitis.
It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties which help alleviate painful and swollen nasal passageways. Therefore, it great for treating respiratory problems.
2. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has a warm, pungent, camphoraceous, and radiant scent.
Remember that this oil has the highest hydrogen content of all essential oils, so it’s a quite powerful warming and stimulating oil. Being an immune stimulant, it can help treat sinusitis, bronchitis, strep, symptoms of cold and flu, and other respiratory conditions.
Rosemary oil shows powerful decongestant, mucolytic, and expectorant effects which make it stand out from all other oils when it comes to treating excess mucous problems.
Note – Pregnant women, those with a diagnosed seizure disorder and high blood pressure should avoid using this oil as it has highly stimulating effects.
3. Tea Tree Oil
This oil provides antibacterial and antiviral properties which help fight the sinusitis-causing bacteria. It contains Terpinen -4 – a compound whose antimicrobial properties fight sinus invaders. What’s more, its anti-inflammatory effects contribute to reducing the swelling.
Tea tree oil helps relieve sinus infection symptoms such as sinus pressure, cold, headache, clogged nose, and chest congestion thanks to its antiseptic properties.
4. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil acts as a decongestant thanks to the menthol in its content. It helps relieve any type of congestion, including sinusitis.
Also, it helps treat other respiratory problems like nasal congestion, asthma, symptoms of cold and flu, and bronchitis. This is why it’s part of many natural chest rubs.
Note – Use this oil in very weak dilutions as it can constrict your blood capillaries. One or two drops added to your bath are enough for a beneficial outcome. Also, do not use it if you suffer from GERD.
Essential Oil Recipe to Clear Blocked Sinuses
Ingredients:
- 10 drops of Rosemary oil
- 70 drops of Eucalyptus oil
- 10 drops of Tea tree
- 10 drops of Peppermint
Instructions:
Add all ingredients in a 5ml euro dropper bottle and shake well.
It’s best to use this oil combo or just one oil as a respiratory steam. Fill a ceramic bowl with steaming hot water and add few drops of this blend or a single oil. Then, lean over the bowl and cover your head with a towel to inhale the vapors.
Note – Do the inhalation with eyes closed to prevent the aromatic vapors from getting into your eyes.
Another Option to Use These Essential Oils
You can also dilute 15 drops of your oil in an ounce of one of the following carrier oils:
- Sesame oil
- Oregano oil
Consulting with your doctor before trying out this remedy to clear blocked sinuses or any other sinus remedy is always the safest option.
Via: CureJoy | MightyNest | HealthLine | WebMD
