The sinuses are located close to the nasal cavities and near the ear. Symptoms of sinusitis include headache, earache, facial pain, loss of sense of smell, tenderness over the forehead and cheekbones and occasionally a high fever.
More than 50% of sinusitis cases are caused by bacteria. Structural problems such as deviated septum or grown of polyps can obstruct the flow of mucus out of the sinuses. This is not an infectious condition to begin with, but since the mucus is obstructed, this creates a perfect environment for bacteria to create an infection.
Factors involved in chronic sinusitis include pollution, occupational dust exposure, tobacco smoke, allergies, rhinitis, cold and damp weather, dental problems, trauma and flying.
Steam inhalations using essential oils will be the most effective treatment for effectively promoting drainage and easing the pain.
Try using some of these essential oils for this treatment as these oils contain antiseptic, anti-microbial, analgesic and decongestant properties:
Step 1: Pour boiled water into a large bowl
Step 2: Add 6 to 8 drops of essential oil into the water
Step 3: Lean forward and place your head over the bowl
Step 4: Cover a towel over your head and bowl to trap the steam
Step 5: Inhale the steam through your nose for 5 counts
Step 6: Exhale through your mouth for 5 counts
Step 7: Repeat until water is no longer steaming
Step 8: Try to blow your nose during and after treatment
This treatment can also be used alongside aromatherapy. Simple acupressure can be done by applying pressure at various points for the treatment of sinuses. To relieve upper or frontal sinuses, use your index finger and thumb to press onto the 2 points located between the inner ridge of your eyebrows and indentation of the nose bridge on both the left and right side of your nose. To open up the maxillary sinuses, use gentle pressure on the edge of the nostrils where the skin near the cheek meets, and massage in small circular motions as you breathe. The webbing between your thumb and index finger relieves pain from your sinuses. As this is a decongestive point which has antihistamine effects, it also helps to relieve frontal headaches caused by sinuses.
Include Vitamin A & C in the diet. Vitamin C increases immunity against infection and reduces mucus while Vitamin A increases the health of the epithelial tissue lining of the sinuses.
Peppers, Garlic and Ginger warm the soul as it opens the sinuses on a cold day.
Drink enough water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps keep your sinuses moist so that the mucus produced can flow smoothly.
