3 home remedies for sinus infection and nasal congestion in monsoon

Are you tired of dealing with the discomfort of a sinus infection and a stuffy nose? Sinus infections or sinusitis occur when there is excessive mucus produced by the sinus glands. This can be frustrating, causing headaches, nasal congestion and facial pressure. In fact, as per National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, more than 130 million people in India suffer from chronic sinusitis. But fear not! Fortunately, nature has bestowed us with some incredible home remedies for sinus infection, which can lead to a stuffy nose.

Dr Dimple Jangda, an Ayurveda and gut health coach, shared an Instagram reel where she talks about the problem of stuffy nose, sinus infection and nasal congestion. She even shared simple home remedies to treat such conditions. Let’s take a look at them!

Home remedies for sinus infections

Sinus infections are a common affliction that many people experience at some point in their lives. Whether it’s due to allergies, a viral or bacterial infection, or even structural abnormalities in the sinuses, sinus problems can affect individuals of all age groups. In fact, certain foods can increase sinus too. Here are expert-recommended tips on how to get rid of sinus infections and nasal congestion.

1. Roasted carrom seeds in a poultice bag

Carom seeds, also known as ajwain seeds, have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties. Dr Jangda says, “They contain essential oils like thymol, which possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. They help kill germs in the nasal passage and reduce pressure on the sinuses, preventing coughing and improving airflow. Hence, using roasted carom seeds in a poultice bag can help relieve sinus congestion.”

To make the poultice, follow these steps:

Step 1: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a handful of carom seeds.
Step 2: Roast the seeds until they turn slightly darker in color and release a pleasant aroma.
Step 3: Place the roasted seeds in a clean cloth or a poultice bag and tie it securely.
Step 4: Hold the poultice bag close to your nose and inhale the aromatic fumes. Take deep breaths to allow the vapors to reach your nasal passages.

Check out her Instagram post here:

2. Inhale steam with a few drops of eucalyptus oil

Steam inhalation is a simple and effective remedy for clearing congested nasal passages. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the steam can enhance its benefits. Dr Jangda says, “Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called eucalyptol, which has decongestant properties and can help break up mucus. This helps us get relief from coughing, breathe easily, reduce inflammation in the sinus glands, clear our chest, and kill the bacteria and parasites in the nose and chest region.” Moreover, it is also the best home remedy to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Here’s how to do a steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil:

Step 1: Boil a pot of water and pour it into a large bowl.
Step 2: Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the hot water. Start with 3-5 drops, and adjust according to your preference.
Step 3: Place a towel over your head, creating a tent over the bowl, and position your face above the steaming water.
Step 4: Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale through your mouth. Continue this for about 5-10 minutes.

Also read: Suffering from sinusitis? Stay away from these 7 foods to avoid an infection

3. Drink warm ginger and mint tea

Ginger and mint are known for their medicinal properties and can be beneficial in relieving sinus and nasal congestion. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols that have anti-inflammatory properties, while mint has a cooling effect and can help open up blocked nasal passages.

To prepare warm ginger and mint tea:

Step 1: Peel and grate a small piece of fresh ginger root.
Step 2: Boil a cup of water and add the grated ginger to it.
Step 3: Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 4: Remove from heat, strain the tea, and add a few fresh mint leaves.
Step 5: Allow the tea to cool down slightly, but make sure it’s still warm enough to drink comfortably.

Sip the warm ginger and mint tea slowly, inhaling the steam as you drink. The combination of ginger and mint can help reduce inflammation in your nasal passages and provide relief from nasal congestion.

Above all these remedies, Dr Jangda also suggests chewing on 3-4 black peppercorns, as it can help treat sneezing symptoms by killing bacteria.