Sinusitis may seem like a relatively minor thing to worry about… until you have it. This type of congestion and pressure can really take a toll on your day, making it very difficult to concentrate and go about your tasks. Regardless of whether it is due to allergies, a cold or another bug, it is always highly uncomfortable.
This condition is characterized by trouble breathing, stuffiness and a heavy feeling in your head, along with sneezing and sometimes pain behind the eyes.
Instead of taking medications, which may lead to drowsiness, fatigue or other unwanted side effects, you may instead choose to tackle a sinus problem using the principles of one of the oldest health philosophies in the world: Ayurveda.
Ayurvedic medicine originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It is a holistic system of health which focuses on the well-being of the entire body and mind, as opposed to treating just one specific condition. Balance is one of its most important underlying principles, and the prevention and healing of illnesses through a nutritious diet and herbal remedies are crucial parts of the system.
For sinusitis or sinus congestion, many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend warm food that is easy to digest, along with plenty of fruits and veggies. Soups and stews fit well into this plan. Heavy meals, oily and fried foods, and cold foods and beverages are often avoided at this time, as they are thought to aggravate the problem.
Some foods and herbs that are often recommended to clear the sinuses are garlic, ginger, black pepper and honey. A warm preparation is best, so, for example, a fresh ginger tea sweetened with raw honey and a dash of black pepper added is a great sinus-friendly tincture. As an alternative to black pepper, cinnamon is also often utilized in Ayurvedic medicine.
Steam may also be quite beneficial to the sinuses. Boiling water, then adding a few drops of essential oil (such as clove, cinnamon and/or oils in the mint family), and inhaling the fragrant steam for up to 20 minutes can do wonders in clearing the congestion. The fragrance of freshly crushed garlic is also traditionally utilized to aid in sinus problems.
Dr. Gowthaman, the founder and medical director of rVita Ayurveda and Yoga Centers, recommends crushing garlic cloves, combining with honey, and taking twice daily before meals to boost the immune system and relieve sinus pain. He also recommends freshly squeezed onion juice combined with honey to clear up stuffiness and nasal blockages.
If you want to find out more in-depth information about Ayurvedic remedies, you may wish to talk to a natural health professional you trust about recommending a specialist in this area. It has survived the test of thousands of years for a reason, and research is beginning to back up some of the methods Ayurveda has known for centuries.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/treatment/Ayurveda
http://www.naturalhealthmag.com/expert-advice/how-can-i-treat-my-sinus-infection-naturally
http://www.jiva.com/ayurveda/about-ayurveda/home-remedies/183.html
http://health.sify.com/ayurveda-qa-home-remedies-for-sinusitis
