Sinus is a common problem

Sinus is a common problem all of us have faced in some form or the other on one or more occasions in our lives.

Be it the problem itself or its symptoms, sinus is quite a discomforting ailment least to say. With prolonged after effects people prefer to opt for natural cures; aromatherapy essential oils being one of the most effective ones.

Every change in season brings with itself allergens and infections that immediately trigger off the symptoms of sinusitis. Be it constant sneezing, itching in the nostrils, runny nose, sore throat, congestion, throat pain, cough, cold or flu, these are all manifestations of sinus.

There are various factors which bring about sinusitis. Some the common ones are –

•    Change in season and exposure to extreme temperature changes.

•    Allergens in the air like dust, smoke, pollen, smog, chemicals, pollutants, etc.

•    Infections too cause sinus as it is contagious.

•    A weak immune system

•    Side effects of an ailment

Since sinusitis is caused due to viral or bacterial infections inflammating and blocking the nasal sinuses and sinus cavities, aromatherapy oils are best suited to cure this problem as they have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. The use of essential oils is favoured for various reasons.

•    They help the body heal fast after an illness.

•    They can be well absorbed by the body tissues, thus aiding faster recovery.

•    They also help to remove congestion of the nasal passage and sinus cavities.

•    Their use also relieves body aches and pains caused due to sinusitis.

•    These oils have even helped many patients to get rid of sinusitis forever.

•    They have no side effects or harm when used for nasal congestion

Essential oils have to be used in specific ways to ensure desired results.

•    Never apply any oil inside the nose. 

•    External application or inhalation is best suited for sinusitis.

•    One can use a steam diffuser to inhale essential oils.

•    Some drops of oils added to a bowl of hot water taken for steam works wonders. 

•    Oils can also be massaged onto temples and head, by mixing a few drops of them into carrier oils       like almond and apricot.

•    The best and most effective area of massage for sinus is the back of the head.

•    Sinus massage can also be done from the inside of the eyebrows moving outwards to the side of      the temples.

Some of the best and most effective essential oils used to treat sinusitis are –

•    Eucalyptus essential oil – this is the best essential oil for all kinds of problems related to sinus,          cough, cold, respiratory ailments etc. this oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties,                which are also antibacterial and antiviral in nature.

It is best to decongest the sinus cavities and also helps to ease body ache, muscle pain, runny nose, asthma and bronchitis. The oil should not be taken by people with high blood pressure and can not be directly ingested either.

•    Tea tree oil – this fresh smelling oil is good with its anti-parasitic, antibacterial and anti-viral                   properties. It is usually used as an inhaler or via steam. This oil too can not be ingested. Pregnant       women should avoid its application too.

•    Peppermint essential oil – this oil also helps with cold, flu, congestion and body aches caused by       sinus. This oil also helps in fever and clears the respiratory tract. Its use should be avoided by             pregnant women.

•    Sweet Basil essential oil – this oil is excellent for treating sinusitis, asthma, stress, migraines              etc.it is helpful in clearing the respiratory tract very well. However, its use is avoided directly on the        skin as it is an irritant.

•    Bergamot essential oil – it has calming properties and is antiseptic as well as antispasmodic oil.        Its effectiveness is seen during sore throats and colds.

•    Other effective essential oils for sinusitis are - Ravensara, myrtle, oregano, thyme, frankincense,          spruce, helichrysum, Spearmint, lavender, pine, thyme, sandalwood, rosemary, ginger, etc.

Sinus can thus be cured effectively by choosing the right kind of oils and ensuring that you use the purest oils only. The best way to go about is to consult a professional aroma therapist.