6 Natural Supplements for Sinus Infection Relief

There are so many sinus infection medications on the market, but did you know there are a handful of natural supplements that can also provide relief? These supplements not only aid in sinus infection treatment, but they can prevent another infection from happening in the future which is especially helpful for chronic sinus infection sufferers. Even better, you are treating your body with natural ingredients that are full of health benefits.

Here are 6 natural supplements that will help treat a sinus infection and sinus congestion. For more sinus infection and congestion treatment methods, read our two articles, 8 Home Remedies for Sinus Infections and 3 Massages for Sinus Relief.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice, and is commonly used in curry dishes for flavor. Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling in the sinus cavities. The herbal supplement is also a stimulant that will act as a natural decongestant, alleviating sinus pressure and pain.

2. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil contains two powerful compounds of carvacrol and thymol that have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Oregano is available as a supplement, and for sinus infections, you can even add few drops of oregano oil to a large bowl of recently boiled water to ease congestion. Boil a pot of water then tent a towel over your head while leaning over the liquid. Make sure to let the water cool to a comfortable temperature.

3. Grapefruit seed extract

Grapefruit seed extract has potent antiviral properties and is commonly included in many nasal and throat sprays.  The main biological compounds in a grapefruit seed that are believed to be responsible for its ability to destroy infectious invaders are the polyphenols known as limonoids and naringenin. Grapefruit seed extract can be taken as a supplement or more directly as a nasal spray. Make sure the nasal spray you choose does not also have drying effects as your body will produce more mucus to alleviate dryness.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential to proper function of the immune system which protects your body from getting infections and helps your body to fight infections. As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps guard our cells from free radicals found in things that commonly contribute to sinus infections like air pollution and cigarette smoke. If taken as a supplement, make sure to avoid drinking caffeine around the same time because the caffeine interferes with the absorption of vitamin C.

5. Garlic

Garlic is well known for being a natural antibiotic. Since colds often lead to a sinus infection, garlic is an awesome way to naturally treat a sinus infection and even prevent it in the first place. For general health promotion for adults, the World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of two to five grams (about one clove) of fresh garlic, 0.4 to 1.2 grams of dried garlic powder, two to five milligrams of garlic oil, 300 to 1,000 milligrams of garlic extract, or other formulations that are equal to two to five milligrams of allicin.

6. Echinacea

Echinacea is an antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herb. Studies have shown that echinacea contains active antiviral and immune boosting substance that help to reduce pain and inflammation, a perfect combination for a sinus infection. It is best to take an echinacea supplement at the first sign of illness.

If you or a loved one frequently suffer from sinus infections, we highly recommend seeing your primary care doctor. While there are plenty of natural and at-home treatment methods for sinus infections and congestion, chronic sinus infections can be caused by a much more serious health problem.

If you are in the south Denver Metro Area, the professionals at Arapahoe Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center would be happy to help you with a personal treatment plan, including acupuncture, massage, and natural supplements. Contact us online or request an appointment today!