Table of contents:
- Overview of the sinuses
- Various essential oils to treat sinusitis
- 1.Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
- 2.Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus Globulus and Radiata)
- 3. Mint leaf oil (Mentha piperita)
- 4.Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus Officinalis ct. Verbenon)
- How to use essential oils for treatment
Infection of the sinuses usually causes blockage and makes it difficult to breathe or sleep. This condition also usually causes painful pressure behind the eye. Certain essential oils can be a natural sinusitis remedy to relieve and eliminate the infection.
Overview of the sinuses
Sinuses are sacs or cavities in any organ or tissue in the body. However, the term sinus is most often used to refer to the paranasal sinuses, which are the air cavities in the bones of the skull (skull), especially those around the nose.
The nose and sinuses produce about a liter of mucus and secretions every day. This mucus passes through the nose, washing and cleaning the membrane from dust particles, bacteria and air pollutants. The sinuses also greatly affect the tone and quality of the sound. However, its main function is to produce mucus which cleans and moisturizes the inside of your nose.
This one organ is prone to inflammation or infection. Now, inflammation or infection of the sinuses is known as sinusitis (but the name is often shortened to sinus).
Various essential oils to treat sinusitis
Several studies have shown that there are certain essential oils that can relieve sinusitis symptoms. Here are some essential oils that can be used as a natural sinusitis remedy:
1.Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
A 2006 study found that tea tree oil or tea tree oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Because inflammation and bacteria in the sinus tissue often cause congestion, this oil is thought to provide relief from symptoms.
The aroma of the oil, made through the distillation and evaporation process of this Australian plant, will feel fresh, warm, and slightly overpowering. Therefore, this oil can be used as a natural sinusitis remedy.
2.Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus Globulus and Radiata)
Eucalyptus oil is known as a good decongestant (reliever for nasal congestion and upper respiratory problems) because of its strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. Usually this oil is used as aromatherapy because it has a sweet, fresh, and long lasting aroma.
A 2009 study found that cineole, which is the main component of this oil, is an effective and safe treatment for sinusitis that does not contain antibiotics.
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), 1.8 cineole helps cleanse the air of bacteria and other microbes. It can also help clear mucus airways and become a natural cough suppressant. In fact, many medicines contain eucalyptus because of its very beneficial properties.
This oil can help prevent and relieve symptoms of flu, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory properties are effective in relieving swelling of the internal parts of your life and treating respiratory problems.
3. Mint leaf oil (Mentha piperita)
The main compound of mint leaf oil is menthol. Menthol creates a cool sensation and helps to release breath. This oil, which comes from an American plant, has a fresh and minty aroma. Its decongestant properties make this oil an option for relieving respiratory obstruction, including in the sinuses.
However, due to the strong cold sensation, this oil is not recommended for use in children under three years of age.
4.Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus Officinalis ct. Verbenon)
Rosemary oil is the oil that has the highest hydrogen content of any essential oil which makes it very warming. This oil is used as a stimulant for immunity. Its strong, fresh, and warm aroma makes it function to relieve respiratory problems such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and flu.
Its mucolytic, decongestant and expectorant properties make this oil able to relieve excess mucus. For those of you who are pregnant and have hypertension (high blood pressure) or seizure disorders, avoid using this oil because it has the potential to have unwanted effects.
How to use essential oils for treatment
The best way to use essential oils to relieve congestion due to sinus infections is to inhale them. You can inhale the oil in several ways, including:
- Inhale steam by dripping essential oils in hot water. This method is highly recommended to get maximum benefits. NAHA recommends adding three to seven drops of essential oil to boiling water in a large saucepan or 1-3 drops if using a small bowl. Use a towel to cover your head, and try to breathe through your nose for a maximum of two minutes. Make sure to close your eyes while doing this procedure so that the aromatic fumes from the essential oil don't get into your eyes which can cause irritation.
- Inhale essential oils straight from the bottle. You can also add a drop of oil to a handkerchief, cotton ball, or tube inhaler to be inhaled.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to your bath if you plan on using it as aromatherapy.
- For an aromatherapy massage, add a few drops of essential oil to it lotion or your favorite massage oil.
Keep in mind, essential oils as natural sinusitis remedies should not be applied directly to your skin. You have to dilute it with other ingredients such as olive oil, joboba oil, water, or lotion. Using it directly on the skin can cause burns, rashes, and itching.
Essential oils are safe when inhaled in low doses and for short periods. If you inhale it in high doses and for a long time, you may experience dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Also, essential oils should not be ingested as they contain strong compounds that can cause toxic side effects. You should first consult the use of essential oils as a natural sinusitis remedy at your doctor or trusted therapist.
