Sinusitis problems happen when too much mucus builds up in the cavities behind your face. This causes one or more of these cavities to become swollen or inflamed. In Ayurveda, the aggravation of Kapha dosha is considered to be the root cause of the development of sinusitis. The Ayurvedic treatment approach to sinusitis involves a combination of detoxification processes through Panchakarma, herbal oral medicines and decoctions, dietary, and lifestyle modifications. Panchakarma like Nasyam, Vaman, Lepanam, Thalam, Shirodhara helps to open up the blocked passages in the skull and facial structures reduces the risk of infection. Nasya Karma or Nasyam is a unique detoxification therapy for treating sinusitis with successful results. During the procedure, medicated oil or powder is administered through the nostrils to clear the Kapha accumulated in the sinus passage. The treatment procedure completely removes the mucus and blocks in the sinus passages and also prevents the recurrence of the condition. Along with treatment procedures, few diet and lifestyle modifications are instructed to pacify the aggravated Kapha dosha and to rejuvenate the body, and prevent the reoccurrence of the condition.
Home remedies for Sinusitis during Winters
- Drinking plenty of fluids – Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help clear mucus from nasal cavities and help drain from sinuses.
- Steam – Hold your face over a bowl of hot water with a few drops of essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, etc.,
- Using Jal Neti Pot – Jal Neti can also help remove the mucus and clean the blockages. Regular practice of this Neti reduces your chances of getting a sinus infection.
- Turmeric – Turmeric with milk removes mucus from nasal cavities and helps drain your sinuses.
- Salt Water Rinse – Saltwater washes (saline lavage or irrigation) help keep the nasal passages open by washing out thick or dried mucus. They can also help improve the function of cilia that helps clear the sinuses.
- Clear the Mucus – Removing excess mucous can help relieve irritation and reduce inflammation in the sinuses.
- Sleep With Your Head Elevated – can help to drain the sinuses and relieve symptoms.
- Applying warm compresses – Create a warm compress using a soft washcloth and warm water. These compresses help to open your sinus passages and soothe swollen facial tissues to make breathing easier.
- Boil four glasses of water, add basil leaves and mint leaves, two cloves, and a piece of ginger. Let it cool down and keep sipping this throughout the day.
- Grate a piece of ginger and take out its juice. Have this juice with honey two-four times a day.