There’s no doubt that the cold season brings a host of uncomfortable symptoms. Our bodies produce more mucus in response to lower temperatures when the weather becomes colder. This results in runny noses and sinus infections. However, some factors are also at play if you have sinusitis this time of year. Read this article to learn about using essential oils for sinus infection.
Sinusitis infections are caused by bacteria or viruses, which can invade your nasal passages and suffocate your nose if not treated properly.
Natural remedies like essential oils can help you fight off sinusitis naturally and safely without exposing yourself to any side effects.
Common essential oils for sinus infection relief
- Eucalyptus oil
- Lavender oil
- Onion oil
- Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita)
- Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
How Do You Use Essential Oils for Sinus Infection Relief
Although it’s not highly recommended, some people get sinus relief by adding a few drops of essential oils to their humidifier. In addition, some people use an essential oil diffuser for sinus congestion relief.
Some other natural treatments that have been shown to help with sinusitis include steam inhalation of peppermint oil and applying a clove necklace or cloth.
You can also try using a saline solution (one teaspoon in a cup of water) or dabbing eucalyptus oil on your chest or back.
What is the best essential oil for sinus infection?
Eucalyptus is the most common essential oil for sinusitis. This is because eucalyptus has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an ideal option to fight off sinusitis and ease your stuffy nose.
Lavender is another popular choice that can help relieve nasal congestion and inflammation.
When choosing an essential oil for your sinusitis, it’s important to look for one that is safe and effective.
Benefits of essential oils for sinus congestion
Lavender: Lavender essential oil is commonly used to help relieve stress in the body and the mind. It has been shown to have soothing effects on the nervous system, which can help alleviate sinusitis.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus essential oil has antiviral properties that can fight off cold viruses and bacteria, common causes of sinus congestion.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil fights off bacteria and viruses, common sinusitis triggers. It also helps fight inflammation and makes it easier for your body to heal from sinusitis.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary essential oil can help break up mucous in the nose, making it easier to breathe while easing congestion and relieving pain associated with sinusitis.
Other essential oils like thyme essential oil blend, lemon essential oils and oregano oil also have antiinflammatory and antibacterial properties that can treat sinus problems and relieve congestion.
How do Essential oils work for treating sinusitis?
Lavender oil has been shown to help alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of a cold. It is also a good option for those allergic to traditional medications.
In addition, vitamin C helps fight viral infections, so you can use this essential oil if you have flu or cold symptoms alongside your sinus infection.
Geranium oil is another natural remedy that may be suitable for treating sinusitis.
It helps with congestion and relieves nasal blockage by opening up the passages. Peppermint essential oil can also ease sinusitis, as it has been shown to help open up blocked nasal passages.
Precautions to note before using Essential oils for Sinus Infection
There’s no denying that essential oils are effective. However, only some know the precautions to be taken before using them for sinusitis.
Here are some steps you might need to take before taking essential oils for your sinuses:
1) Consult a doctor first
Of course, you would want to consult your doctor before going the natural route. Sometimes, doctors may prescribe antibiotics or other medications for sinusitis.
Still, doctors will only advise against herbal remedies if they can’t help patients get rid of their symptoms naturally.
Doctors will also tell patients about side effects and interactions with medication.
2) Don’t use more than one type of essential oil at a time
Generally, it is best to use only one type of essential oil at a time because these powerful substances could adversely affect your body and cause unwanted reactions. Instead, start by alternating between two or three types of oils until you find what works best for you.
3) Don’t use too much at once
When looking into traditional remedies like essential oils, it is vital to use only a little at once, or it can be counter-productive.
Using just a drop or two of each oil will do the trick while avoiding adverse effects. One way to prevent this problem is by making sure that the mixture is diluted enough not to irritate your nose and lungs when inhaled.
Where to apply essential oils for sinus congestion?
The best way to apply these oils is by diffusing them in a water-based humidifier. This will help the oils reach your sinuses more efficiently.
You could also add a few drops of the oils to your saline nasal spray or inhale the aroma of these oils through your nose.
Mix 1-2 drops of any of these essential oils into 2-4 ounces of distilled water and use it as a nasal rinse for 5 minutes. This will cause the mixture to evaporate, relieving congestion and enhancing breathing for sinusitis.
Risks and warnings of essential oils for sinusitis
It’s vital to note that essential oils are not always safe for health. For example, if you’re experiencing sinusitis, you should avoid using peppermint and eucalyptus oils, as these can further irritate your nasal passages.
Additionally, it’s crucial to understand how individual essential oils interact with different people.
You’ll want to look for the precautions found on each oil bottle before ingesting it or applying it topically.
Other treatments for sinusitis
Tell your doctor if you’ve tried all the natural remedies and still have symptoms. They may have some new ideas to help get rid of your sinus infection or prescribe antibiotics if it’s severe enough.
Additionally, some over-the-counter treatments can help with symptoms like congestion and sinus headaches. In these cases, you can use a humidifier in the bedroom or bathroom to keep the air moist inside your home.
Often a warm shower is also helpful for easing some of the pressure on your sinuses.
