We have four pairs of sinuses, air-filled pockets, in the bones of our face. These connect to nasal passages and the rest of our respiratory system. The mucous membranes lining sinuses provide lubrication, and natural immunity by trapping foreign particles. Tiny hairs called cilia also trap germs then push the mucus out through tiny opening drains called ostia. Three of the four ostia drain downward, the 4^th drains upward, which explains why many people get “plugged” up and mouth breathe, or snore during sleep.

Sinusitis occurs when the mucus-producing linings of the sinuses become inflamed and infected.  As ostia openings get clogged, foreign material is trapped, oxygen levels drop and bacteria in the nasal cavity reproduce anaerobically. Inflammation causes the sinus walls to swell, causing heat and pain, while increased white blood cells may create excess mucous and pus.

If the inflammation is healed properly, then all systems revert to normal. However if offending conditions continue to promote the inflammatory response, or if the immune system is too weak to mount a defensive, continued inflammation can eventually damage cilia and cause scarring, polyps or sores.  Allergic reactions to dust, animal dander, foods, smoke, and other pollutants can prevent the natural healing process. Dairy is a large offender closely followed by wheat  and gluten. Sugar leads to fermentation and lack of oxygenation, plus feeds bacteria and viruses.

Prescription antibiotics, inhalants and OTC decongestant drugs may reduce inflammation and swelling, however they do nothing to promote healing or removal of the cause. Long term use can increase dependency and reduce effectiveness, leading to stronger drugs or surgery.

To heal your sinuses with natural remedies:

1. Treat acute stage – eliminate any infections, viral, bacterial, or fungal that may be contributing to the symptoms, by using immune enhancing herbs and formulas.

• SN-X , called (Sinus Support in US.) is a proven herbal combination that is effective in treating symptoms such as congestion, head ache and sinus drip.  Take 4- 6 per day, minimum 1 month, until acute stage is cleared.
• Liquid Silver Guard  is one of the most powerful natural antibiotics. Use a nasal spray bottle to destroy all bacteria, viruses, mould or fungus. Spray at least 2- 4 Xs per day, one squirt in each nostril, and at least 1x/day after doing the inhalation or shower to clear passages first.
• Liquid Silver Guard   internally will help eliminate long standing conditions more quickly. Minimum of 1 tsp. /5 ml. 2X/day, til improvement, then decrease.
• Antibacterial, anti-viral Essential Oil (EO) inhalation: Put 1-2 drops of therapeutic quality EO into a bowl of very hot water. Cover your head with a towel and breathe in fumes, with eyes closed. Breathe until nostrils are clear; this may take up to 20 mins. to loosen mucous and clear nostrils, then silver can then access all the inner sinus areas. One of the most effective is Tei Fu Oil, a combination of eucalyptus, menthol, lavender, wintergreen and cloves.
• Strong antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, such as Zambroza can be taken in double dose as an extra aid to overall health.
• Avoid all dairy and wheat products, which are mucous producing for most people.
• Eliminate any dietary allergens that are at the root of the problem
• Improve digestion with enzymes to help eliminate the allergic response
• Use herbal combinations to clean up the sinuses. Look for formulas what contain Fenugreek and Thyme , historically used to disinfect, soften and clear out old mucous. AL-J is a formula that helps reduce allergic response, improve digestion and thins mucous. It contains herbs such as horseradish and mullein, herbs known to have positive effects on the respiratory system. Expect to take these for a minimum of 3 months, plus one month for each year the problem has existed. Although relief will be noticed sooner, this is the naturopathic rule of thumb for true healing.
• Saline Nasal Rinse: Use a baby or bulb syringe from drug store to flush the nasal passages. To 1 cup of warm water add, ½ tsp. salt and a pinch of baking soda. Squirt this into one nostril, while gently closing the other nostril, so that water comes out the mouth. Repeat with the other nostril. This is an old Yogic cleansing practice, using a neti pot, which has proven itself over the centuries. For long standing chronic infections or sinus problems, do this one to three times daily for months, until all symptoms have been clear for a couple of weeks.
• Continue using silver nasal spray, 1 – 2x per day to prevent reoccurrence. This will also help protect you from the common cold and flu. Many people are finding the Silver spray easier to do and as effective as the saline. Choose one that suits you, or alternate weekly.

 2.  Treat chronic condition – once acute stage has passed, treat the root cause to eliminate re-occurrence. This involves:

• Eliminate any dietary allergens that are at the root of the problem
• Improve digestion with enzymes to help eliminate the allergic response

As with all health conditions, follow the 4 Pillars of Health as outlined in Benoit’s book: The Paw Paw Program.

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© Lorene Benoit, BEd, MHH, CHC, CI, CRA.   Master Holistic Health,