Stuffy nose in the monsoon? Try these 3 home remedies for sinus infection

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

Dr. Dimple Jangda, an Ayurveda and Bowel Health Instructor, shared an Instagram reel where she talks about stuffy nose, sinus infection, and nasal congestion. She also 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, viral or bacterial infections, or even structural abnormalities in the sinuses, sinus problems can affect individuals of all ages. In fact, even some foods can increase sinusitis. Here are expert-recommended tips on how to get rid of sinus infections and nasal congestion.

1. Roasted carrot seeds in a poultice bag

Carambola 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 such as 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. So, using roasted starfruit 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 carambola seeds.
Step 2: Roast the seeds until they turn slightly darker and release a pleasant aroma.
Step 3: Place the roasted seeds in a clean cloth or poultice bag and tie it tightly.
Step 4: Bring the poultice bag 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 the 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 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 to get cough relief, breathe easy, reduce inflammation in the sinus glands, clear out the chest and kill the bacteria and parasites in the nose and chest region. Furthermore, it is also the best home remedy for curing respiratory diseases 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 warm water. Start with 3-5 drops and adjust to your preference.
Step 3: Place a towel over your head, creating a tent over the bowl, and place your face over the steaming water.
Step 4: Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Continue like this for about 5-10 minutes.

Read also: Do you suffer from sinusitis? Stay away from these 7 foods to avoid an infection

3. Drink warm ginger mint tea

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

To prepare the hot ginger and mint herbal tea:

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

Slowly sip the hot ginger mint tea, inhaling the steam as you drink. The combination of ginger and mint can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and provide relief from nasal congestion.

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