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6 Effective home remedies to get rid of sinus headache

Sinuses are air filled cavities located above and below the eyes. Inflammation of the sinuses can occur due to bacterial or viral infections. The accumulation of mucus causes pain in the temple area resulting in a sinus headache. Home remedies are proven to be effective as they relieve pain and discomfort. There are a wide variety of natural remedies which work by reducing the pain, inflammation and facilitate free flow of the mucus, providing relief from all symptoms. These home remedies are free from any potentially dangerous side effects of medications.

Various remedies like steam inhalation techniques, cold compresses, use of natural herbs and spices etc are available and most people swear by these remedies as they are all available at home. Some hot liquids can be sipped for relief whereas others can be inhaled and some herbs, spices can even be carried along while traveling. Most of these remedies provide fast relief from pain by flushing out the stagnant mucus and are safe enough to be continued for a week or more until complete relief occurs.

Steam inhalation

Many people swear by this technique to get rid of the headache. Apple cider vinegar, eucalyptus oil, a few chopped garlic cloves, peppermint oil and turmeric can be added to boiling water before inhaling. Turmeric paste or oil works wonders when applied or added to water due to its potent antiseptic properties.

Using apple cider vinegar is effective to clear off the mucus as it has some antibiotic properties also. Inhalation of steam with a few drops of essential oils is known to be very effective because it clears or thins out the mucus, reduces heaviness, aches near the head and clears congestion problems also. Vapors can be inhaled with head covered for about 10-15 minutes and this procedure can be repeated at regular intervals (2-4 times a day) till complete relief occurs. A warm shower can also be taken in order to ease the symptoms as warm, moist air will reach your sinuses. A warm, moist towel can also be placed on the affected areas for relief.

Have foods rich in vitamin C and zinc

Foods rich in minerals and vitamins can be taken on a daily basis to correct nutritional deficiencies and improve overall health. Foods rich in zinc boost immunity and will help to prevent further headaches. A multivitamin can be taken daily to correct dietary imbalances. Vitamins A, B, E are proven to be more beneficial than others. Foods rich in vitamin C can be taken as they help to increase resistance against various infections and also to reduce inflammation.

Lemon grass tea and ginger tea are found to be effective if taken on a regular basis along with topical application of the used tea bags on the infected areas. Keep sipping hot fluids made with herbs like fennel, fenugreek and basil to keep the mucus flowing.

Cold or warm compress

Hot compresses or a warm moist wash cloth can be applied over the forehead for relief. Alternate hot and cold compresses can be used to stimulate blood flow and help in mucus drain. Use washcloths with hot water and another with cold water alternately. Lay the cloth over the affected area for a few minutes and repeat the process at least a couple of times to reduce the discomfort.

Warm compress can be placed for 2-3 minutes and it can be followed by a cold compress immediately for half a minute. A cold compress on the back of your neck along with soaking feet in warm water can be tried.

Use spices for instant relief

Ginger juice, honey, onion juice, cayenne pepper (powder or crushed): all can be very effective for relief from pain because of their anti-bacterial properties. Having a few bites of jalapeno will aid in draining the excess mucus from your sinuses. These spices can be carried along while on the move for reducing the discomfort. Cinnamon is useful for reducing headaches and a smooth paste of this spice can be applied over the temples and forehead to obtain relief. Add 1-2 tsp of thyme in a cup of boiling water and allow it to soak for 10 minutes and then drink this mixture several times a day for relief from pain. Thyme is known to be good for respiratory problems due to its antiseptic properties.

Increase your fluid intake and take adequate rest

Have adequate water, fruit juices and other fluids to keep your body well hydrated and nasal passages moist, so as to aid in free flow of stagnant mucus. Having plenty of fluids reduces inflammation of the sinuses also. Warm water works better for that soothing effect and to minimize the symptoms.

Get enough rest, so as to allow your body to ward off infection that may be causing your headache. Sleep in a head raised position in order to help the mucus drain so as to ease all the symptoms. Slowly massage the cavities around the eyes and nose with thumb to decrease pressure and relieve pain. Some deep breathing exercises can be practiced which will relax you and ease the discomfort.

Other herbal remedies for reducing the discomfort

Garlic is well known for its innumerable benefits and garlic extract is found to be effective when applied to the affected areas thrice a day. You can even eat a few garlic cloves to clear off the accumulated mucus.

Fenugreek seeds can be boiled with water and the liquid can be consumed while it is still warm and this is one of the most effective remedies for healing sinus headaches because it facilitates perspiration in the body. This home remedy can be continued until complete relief occurs. A mixture of cumin seeds powder with honey, if taken regularly, will also help to ease most of the symptoms of sinusitis. In the same way, some vegetable juices made from carrot and beetroot, spinach and cucumber will also work wonders for respiratory problems, if consumed on a daily basis by improving your overall health.

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