A Natural Approach to Resolving Chronic Sinusitis
This content is informational and is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. Please seek the advice of a medical professional before implementing changes to your diet.
The best approach to resolving chronic and recurring sinus issues, from an Eastern Medicine perspective, is to use a combination of Acupuncture treatments (12 weeks recommended), prescription medicinal herbs (as indicated and based upon diagnosis), food as medicine, and lifestyle changes.
Break the habit of using Steroidal Nasal Sprays that have negative side effects and are not recommended for long-term use.
For some, this approach isn’t possible due to conditions that make using herbs unsafe. Common conditions that require extra caution around using herbs include:
potential interactions with certain prescription medications
postpartum / nursing / fertility status
autoimmune disease
organ disease
and allergies to chinese medicinal herbs
For some people, Acupuncture is not a possible interventions due to:
lack of healthcare coverage / expense
no or low tolerance for the experience of Acupuncture - needle shock / added stress to nervous system / “not my cup of tea”
no access to Acupuncturists (possibly due to a rural lifestyle or due to state regulations that do not support the practice Acupuncture)
In the absence of a licensed herbalist and/or Acupuncturist, positive health benefits are attainable from foods and food grade herbs that support the immune system and provide mild mucolytic (mucous drying or draining) effects. These ingredients are easy to find and are generally safe. Before addressing the mucous symptoms, try eliminating triggers of mucus production with the following changes:
Do not consume sugar and milk products. Reduce or eliminate mammal meats, peanuts, and soy products like tofu.
Drink abundant water. This will help thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear.
Use a humidifier. This is particularly helpful if you sleep with one, nightly.
Use a Saline Nasal Spray.
Keep your head elevated while sleeping.
Stop smoking.
Stop drinking alcohol.
FOOD FLAVORS THAT HELP CLEAR SINUSES
In Traditional East Asian Medicine specific flavors are involved with relieving phlegm, clearing sinuses, and bolstering immunity by supporting the processes of various systems and primarily: Lungs, Liver and Lymphatic.
BITTER FLAVOR
Bitter Flavors have a drying, cooling (anti-inflammatory), and draining effect (guiding out via nose, urine, bowels or pores) on the body, especially in cases of excess heat or dampness. Bitter flavors also increase the production of gastric acid, making them helpful in supporting the digestive system. Bitter herbs have a cleansing action and this refers to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which are found with alkaloids, glycosides, and flavonoids. Increased mucus secretion is usually secondary to inflammation and infection. The bitter herbs reduce mucous membrane secretions.
BITTER HERBS FOUND IN THE KITCHEN
Horseradish, Coffee, Basil, Fenugreek, Marjoram, Turmeric, Thyme, Vinegar, Scallions,
AROMATIC / ACRID / PUNGENT FLAVOR
Aromatic flavors have a dispersing and drying effect. They are used to transform and move congested fluids upward and outward. The acrid taste indicates a burning or numbing sensation of the tongue, which is caused by volatile oils. They also tend to stimulate mucus secretion and movement in the lungs and sinuses.
Aromatic herbs offer an important action because if a person only dries the mucus then it might get stuck in the lungs or further congest sinus cavities. So, the approach is to both dry with bitter flavors and disperse with aromatic flavors.
AROMATIC HERBS FOUND IN THE KITCHEN
Cloves, Cardamon, Star Anis, Mint, Ginger (caution while breastfeeding), Fennel, White Peppercorn, Mustard Seeds
FOODS for SINUS CONDITIONS to TREAT MUCUS
SPROUTS (alfalfa, broccoli, radish), SEAWEED, Guava, Horseradish, Watercress, Broccoli, Asparagus, Turnips, Cabbage (use the center too) Parsnips, Garlic, Dandelion, Parsley, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Arugula, Kale, Celery, Burdock, Radish, Aduki Beans, Quinoa, Pumpkin, Carrot, Strawberry, Citrus Peel, Flax Seed, Artichoke, Olives, Radicchio
FOODS for SINUS CONDITIONS to IMPROVE IMMUNITY
Wheat Grass / Barley Grass (1oz daily for 14 days & longer), Spirulina, Chlorella, Shiitake Mushrooms
FOODS for SINUS CONDITIONS to REDUCE INFLAMMATION
Generally - Dark Green and Golden Orange Vegetables, Fermented Foods (salt-less) - Kimchi & Pickled Veggies, Onions
Sources:
“Healing with Whole Foods” by Paul Pitchford
“Heinerman’s Encyclopedia of Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs” by John Heinerman
“The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth” by Jonny Bowden