8 Home Remedies for a Sinus Infection

Although a virus typically causes sinus infections, bacteria or fungi might also be to blame. It is frequently brought on by a cold, which makes the sinuses enlarge, inflame, and produce more mucus, which blocks the sinuses.

Behind the cheeks and forehead, sinuses are hollow, air-filled sacs that, when filled with fluid, house bacteria that can cause an infection.

Allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, and contact with irritants and pollutants including cocaine, cigarette smoke, and over-the-counter nasal sprays can also result in sinus infections.

A headache, facial soreness, pain, or pressure, nasal stuffiness, colorful nasal discharge, a sore throat, cough, and fever are typical signs of sinus infections. Leaning forward may make some people more sensitive or give them a headache.

You can apply a few simple natural home treatments to reduce the signs and symptoms of a sinus infection. To ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment, also speak with your doctor.

Here are the top 8 home remedies for a sinus infection

1. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is an effective home remedy to open up and drain the sinuses. Also, it boosts immunity, reduces swelling and inflammation, and improves circulation.

• Mix one teaspoon of cayenne pepper in a cup of hot water. Drink it two or three times a day.
• Alternatively, you can eat a mixture of one teaspoon each of cayenne pepper and honey a few times a day.

Use either of these remedies for a few days or until you see improvement.

2. Horseradish

Horseradish is another popular remedy for sinus infections as it helps remove mucus from the nasal passages. It also contains high levels of sulfur and works as a natural antibiotic.

1. Put a pinch of freshly grated horseradish in your mouth.
2. Hold it in your mouth until its flavor dissipates, and then swallow it.
3. Repeat a few times a day for about a week or until the infection clears.

3. Steam

Breathing in steam will help relieve nasal congestion and clear sinuses. Plus, a warm compress will help reduce sinus pressure and headaches.

• Run a hot shower and breathe in the steam vapors for about five to 10 minutes. Do this daily for a few days until the infection clears.
• You can also place a wet, warm towel on your face for a few minutes, several times a day for a few days to help relieve sinus pressure.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric has antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat sinus infections and congestion. It has an active compound called curcumin that helps heal the swelling in the sinus cavity and clear the airways.

• Mix a pinch of turmeric powder in a glass of warm water. Gargle with it a few times a day for a few days.
• You can also drink a glass of hot milk mixed with one teaspoon of turmeric powder and a little honey. Drink it daily for about one week or until the infection clears.
• Another option is to create a turmeric smoothie by blending two pieces of turmeric root (two inches), juice from one lemon, one tablespoon of honey, a pinch of cayenne pepper, one banana and one-half cup of water. Drink this smoothie daily for a few days.

5. Ginger

Ginger has antiviral, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat sinus infections. The polyohenols present in ginger help inhibit the secretion of mucus, while maintaining normal nasal ciliary motility. Healthy cilia are important for sinus health as they filter allergens and prevent sinus infections.

1. Cut a two-inch piece of fresh ginger root into slices.
2. Boil the slices in one cup of water over low heat for about 10 minutes.
3. Strain the solution, and mix some lemon juice and honey in it.
4. Drink this tea a few times a day for about a week or until you get the desired results.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat sinus infections. Taking apple cider vinegar at the start of colds, flu or allergies can help prevent a sinus infection from developing.

1. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a cup of warm water.
2. Mix in one teaspoon of honey.
3. Drink this solution three times a day for five days.

7. Garlic

Garlic works as a natural antibiotic to fight sinus infections caused by bacteria and viruses. It is particularly beneficial when the sinus infection is caused by bacteria. Garlic also has antifungal properties.

• Chop two or three garlic cloves, add them to a pot of boiling water and inhale the steam of this garlic-infused water for a few minutes. Repeat a few times daily until you get relief.
• You can also eat two to three fresh garlic cloves (preferably crushed) daily. Also include onion, garlic, cayenne pepper and horseradish in your soups and meals to help get rid of excess mucus.

8. Onion

Onion works as an excellent decongestant to open up your sinuses. Plus, it contains sulfur compounds that fight bacteria and fungi.

1. Chop an onion into small pieces and put the pieces in a pot of water.
2. Let it boil for about five minutes, and then inhale the vapors for a few minutes.
3. Next, strain the liquid and drink it.
4. Repeat a few a times a day for about a week or until the congestion clears.

Along with these treatments, take a few easy steps to keep your nasal passages wet, such as drinking lots of water to thin the mucus and using a humidifier. Additionally, getting enough sleep will speed up recuperation.