The nose is one of the most essential and noticeable features of a person’s face. Kids joke and laugh about what comes out. Adults spend millions of dollars each year looking to fix or perfect theirs. Most people in today’s society usually only worry about the outside. While the visual appearance can be a big deal to emotional wellbeing, the truth is that it’s the inside that really counts. The sinus cavity is more than just a passage for air and smells. The glands and pathways in your nose and ears help to drain fluids, filter oxygen and help to trap allergens, airborne infectious agents, and regulate pressure throughout the face and sinus cavities. Sinus infections can be caused by environmental irritants, allergies, bacteria, or even viruses. Let’s face it, dealing with congestion, runny discharge, or pain and pressure can make a person feel miserable. Many suffer each year due to the seasonal changes in the weather, making it hard to enjoy the outdoors and holiday festivities. Luckily, many proven home remedies can help reduce symptoms and restore normal functions. Many people have had great success with using essential oils for sinus problems.
One very effective treatment comes in the form of essential oils. Essential oils, when used properly, can help you avoid seeing a doctor for minor issues. These natural remedies have been used throughout history and all around the world. Finding them is easy, as many essential oils are available online, in grocery stores, and even some gas stations and convenience stores. The hard part can be finding the correct information on how to use them. If you want to use essential oils for sinus health and relief from symptoms, check out our list of some of the best oils you can use and tips on how to use them.
Before you begin using essential oils for sinus problems:
1. While essential oils are considered safe and effective, they can cause issues if not used properly. Here are a few helpful tips to help you avoid any potential adverse effects.
2. Never apply essential oils on your body without mixing them with a “carrier oil” or some other agent to dilute them. Oils such as olive oil and coconut oil are gentle on the body and non-reactive to essential oils, making them an ideal choice as a carrier.
3. Make sure to test a small amount, if you have never used a particular oil before, to make sure that if you do have a reaction, you can limit exposure to that one area. The general rule is a 2:1 mix ratio of carrier oil to essential oil.
Here are some of the most popular and effective oils:
Clove – Filled with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic, properties it can help reduce the severity and relieve sinus congestion.
Eucalyptus – Possesses antimicrobial (antiviral, antibacterial) and has anti-spasmodic properties that can help to open airways, reduce cough and congestion.
Lavender – Used in aromatherapies, it is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antiviral, and antiseptic properties. It is used as an immune booster and circulatory stimulant.
Oregano – Contains two potent organic compounds, carvacrol, and thymol. For centuries it has been known for its antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. Research on carvacrol has shown that it can help with inflammation, allergies, parasites, viruses, bacteria, fungal infections, chronic sinus problems and can help reduce the growth of tumors.
Peppermint – Is a powerful antiseptic and astringent, with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial (antiviral, antibacterial) and helps stimulate the healing process in the body.
Tea Tree – Due to its antiseptic and antimicrobial (antiviral, antibacterial) properties, it is known to be effective in eliminating the fungus, viruses, and bacteria that can cause symptoms of colds and flu.
Thyme – is one of nature’s most potent antioxidants, and has been known to have antiseptic, antimicrobial (antiviral, antibacterial), anti-spasmodic, and expectorant properties. It is one of the best oils to help support The immune, nervous, and respiratory systems.
Ways you can use essential oils for sinus problems:
Diffusers – use heat and steam to help disperse the oils through the air.
Direct inhalation – some oils, like Eucalyptus, and Peppermint are powerful enough to be effective by just inhaling the vapors from the bottle.
Steam inhalation – many homeopathic solutions are as simple as adding a few drops of oil into hot water and inhaling the steam that rises.
Aromatherapy bath – adding a few drops to a bath can also achieve the same effect.
Essential oils are some of the most potent chemicals produced by nature. A little goes a very long way, and used in moderation; they can be beneficial. Be careful not to overdo it, as over-exposure can lead to irritation, headaches, and dizziness. Never ingest essential oils directly. If your symptoms persist or grow worse after using essential oils, contact your health provider immediately. Pregnant women, children, and those suffering from significant and chronic issues should not use essential oils without first consulting a doctor.