10 herbs for sinus congestion
There are several herbs for sinus congestion, but this article focuses on ten commonly used herbs.
- Bayberry, an astringent, improves circulation. The herb is snuffed as powder or used as an ointment for massaging the sinus. Bayberry (Myrica cerifera) with yellowish flowers and slim long dark green leaves featuring resin glands relieves nasal congestion and cures nasal polyps. The root bark is used for sinus congestion relief.
- Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), belonging to the Poppy family of plants, clears sinus congestion. The North American herb bears delicate yellow-white flowers in spring. The crushed stem produces red color juice.
- Elder‘s (Sambucus) yellow flowers relieves the sinus congestion and helps in treating hay fever. The dark blueberries having medicinal properties are also used as food. Elder is found in Africa, Asia, Canada, Europe and the United States.
- Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis), a native to the cold temperate areas in both the hemispheres, is also used for sinus congestion. The medicinal herb blooms into reddish white flowers enhanced with yellow spots and purple streaks.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale), a tropical herb, is easily available in the market. This affordable herb clears sinus congestion. The herb bears green or yellow color flowers. The herb root is used as food and medicine.
- Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), an effective astringent with cooling effect, relieves sinus congestion. The herb minimizes phlegm. It can be administered as powder and / or tincture. However, pregnant women and the patients suffering from high blood pressure should avoid the herb. The herb has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a decongestant.
- Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea), an astringent, reduces phlegm. The herb dries the mucus within the bronchi and the sinuses. The herb with a unique smell is used as tincture or infusion. The ivy’s blue-purple flowers blossom during May-June.
- Mint, one of easily available herbs for sinus congestion, is an anesthetic and analgesic. Warm compresses of the mint heal sinusitis. A mixture of massage oil and mint’s essential oil relieves sinus congestion.
- Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) contains huge amount of chlorophyll. In fact, its chlorophyll content is the highest among all the herbs. The nutrient-rich leaf bears feathery green flowers in July-September.
- Thyme and fenugreek tea acts as a decongestant. Although it is a mild form a decongestant, thyme facilitates sinus congestion relief. Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-graceum) bears white flowers and used as medicine and spice.
