How to Cure a Sinus Infection without Antibiotics
You know the misery of a sinus infection; pressure building up behind your eyes, stuffy nose, that horrible post nasal drip. Not to mention the achy, sick-all-over feeling that just refuses to go away. Before you drive to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription for antibiotics, learn how to cure a sinus infection the natural way.
What Causes a Sinus Infection?
Allergic inflammation caused by the common cold or allergies can cause blockages in the nasal passages. The nasal lining thickens, obstructing the process that naturally removes toxins and bacteria from the nose. The result? A painful, irritating sinus infection.
Natural Remedy for Sinus Infection #1 – Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a very powerful natural antiviral. It’s very strong so it’s important to only use a few drops at a time. You can pick up a small bottle of oregano oil at most health food stores or online. Place a couple of drops into a 4 ounce glass of water and, using a straw, drink it down. The straw will keep your lips from burning.
Natural Remedy for Sinus Infection #2 – Astragalus
Astragalus has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to strengthen the immune system and protect the body against the effects of physical and emotional stress. It also contains antioxidants, which protect the body from damaging free radicals.
Natural Remedy for Sinus Infection #3 – Goldenseal
Goldenseal was designed by nature with the mucus membranes in mind. For hundreds of years Native Americans used this natural herb to treat chronic upper respiratory ailments such as post nasal drip, allergic inflammation, bronchitis, sinusitis and tonsillitis. You can take this herb in supplement form, in a tea or use it in a neti pot.
Natural Remedy for Sinus Infection #4 – Neti Pot
A neti pot is a small pot resembling a genie lamp that is used to irrigate the nasal passages. Mix a tiny amount of sea salt and a touch of goldenseal in a ¼ cup of warm water and pour into the neti pot. Leaning over a sink or a basin, place the tip of the neti pot in your right nostril and, tilting your head to the left side, let the water flow in through the right nostril and out the left. Repeat on the other side. This will help clean out trapped bacteria and dirt while soothing inflammation. For a visual demonstration of how to use a neti pot, watch this video.
Other Ways to Treat a Sinus Infection without Antibiotics
Vitamin C – This natural supplement packs a powerful immune system-boosting punch. Eat fresh, organic oranges or pick up a vitamin C supplement.
Garlic – Adding an abundance of fresh garlic to your diet will knock out the sinus infection and help ease inflammation.
Water – When you’re sick, it’s very important to drink plenty of pure water to flush out your system.
Sinus infections are no fun. Unfortunately, overuse of antibiotics has created more disease-resistant strains of bacteria. Not to mention the toll antibiotics take on your body as they strip your digestive system of healthy gut flora. You can avoid using antibiotics this season by trying these natural cures for sinus infection first!
