Sinusitis is a disorder characterised by inflamed or swollen tissues lining the sinuses. When sinuses get blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) can thrive and cause inflammation. You might have sinusitis if you have a stuffy nose, coloured discharge, a headache, face pain, or swelling around the sinuses.
In Ayurveda, sinusitis is referred to as Pinas. It can affect anyone of any age or gender. The common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the nose lining), nasal polyps (small growths in the nose lining), or a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity) are all causes of sinus blockage. Let us learn in great detail about sinus treatment and remedies in Ayurveda in this article.
Types of sinusitis
- Acute sinusitis — a quick onset of signs and symptoms, such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain, that persist for 10 to 14 days. Acute sinusitis may linger for up to 4 weeks.
- Sub-acute sinusitis — an infection that lasts 4 to 8 weeks.
- Chronic sinusitis — sinus infection symptoms that endure for at least 8 weeks.
- Recurrent sinusitis — multiple attacks within a year.
Signs and symptoms of sinusitis
- Breathing issues brought on by a blockage in one or both nostrils
- Headache — mild to severe, or a front-of-head heaviness
- Teeth, upper jaw, and ear discomfort that is radiating
- Feverish
- Swelling around the eyes and the cheeks
- Bad breath
- Ear blockages
- Cough
- Thick mucus discharge
Causes of Sinusitis
- Increased consumption of heavy, difficult-to-digest foods, oily, spicy, dry, and hot-or-cold foods, as well as poor food combinations
- Impaired Kapha (water element) builds up in the sinuses and prevents Vata (air) from flowing.
- Imbalanced Pitta (fire) results in oedema and irritability of the nasal tissues.
- Exposure to cold or arid conditions
- Staying up late and sleeping during the day
- Repeated respiratory infections
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal polyps
- Dust or pollen allergies
- Mouth infections, such as those caused by tooth decay
- Impaired immune system
Sinus Treatment and remedies in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, exacerbated Kapha and Vata in the area above the collarbone are the cause of acute sinusitis (collarbone). Ayurvedic detoxification (Panchakarma), external therapies, internal drugs, diet changes, and lifestyle adjustments are among the treatment approaches. Nasya is crucial in the treatment of sinusitis.
Nasya (sinus treatment)
Nasya Karma, often called Nasya, is one of Ayurveda’s five purifying methods. It effectively treats sinusitis when administered in this manner. When used to treat sinusitis, it has excellent results. To clear accumulated Kapha, a medicinal oil, powder, or fresh juice is administered through the nostrils.
Nasya administers drops of medicated oil into the nasal passages, where it permeates the mucosal lining and encourages sinus and nose healing. Nasya encourages energy movement and healing in the area while giving a light sinus massage. Nasya also stops sinusitis from returning.
- Shirodhara – pouring of warm medicated oil on the forehead.
- Oil pulling – warm oil is swished about the gums and mouth.
- Neti Pot – Saltwater sinus rinse (needs special instruction and advice from your ayurvedic practitioner)
- Steam inhalation – Boiling water in a bowl should be supplemented with ginger, eucalyptus oil, clove oil, or other medicinal plants (as recommended). With a towel covering your head and your face over the bowl at a comfortable distance, slowly breathe in the steam for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat once daily for maintenance after performing 2-3 times daily while your condition is active.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Avoid being exposed to chilly breezes and any specific allergens.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything that has been chilled, including cold water.
- While you are treating sinusitis, avoid dairy products.
- Eat warm food that has been cooked, and only consume hot or warm water.
- Regularly incorporate warming spices into your diet, such as black pepper, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, and turmeric.
- Practise deep breathing (pranayama–anulom-vilom, kapalbhati)
Sinusitis treatment at Birla Ayurveda
At Birla Ayurveda, ayurvedic doctors perform an initial evaluation to determine your primary dosha and any current imbalances. Your individualised detox therapies, herbal regimens, and nutritional plans will be customised by our skilled doctor. Depending on how severe your problem is, you might need a combination of herbs, other therapies, and Nasya treatments. We intend to strengthen your immune system, reduce inflammation, and clear the sinus passages because these factors are crucial for your speedy recovery.
If you or someone you know is suffering from acute or chronic sinusitis, make an appointment with our team of doctors at any of our locations today.
